Speak Out Digital Edition June 2016

Dysphonia - Let’s Talk about it, with the Australian Dysphonia Network Inc

New south wales

NSW 1964 Members as at April 2016

Sheridan Gaudry with Riverlands Harmony Chorus.

friends, and voice health professionals. At this event, the plan for an Australian network run by, and for people with voice disorders was born. Each current member of the ADN committee lives with some form of dysphonia. This ensures a deep understanding of the impact it can have on everyday functioning, relationships, careers and social participation. Although newly established, the ADN has very clear aims for the future, including (a) providing support for people affected by a voice disorder, their families and friends, (b) increasing public awareness of dysphonia and voice care, (c) raising awareness and educating GPs and other health practitioners to aid in early diagnosis and better management, and (d) funding research into the causes, management and psycho-social impact of voice disorders. The ADN is also keen to advocate for environmental considerations, (for example the impact

The Australian Dysphonia Network Inc, was formally established in January 2016 and aims to support and advocate for people whose lives are impacted by a voice disorder. Difficult to diagnose, difficult to understand, and often difficult to manage, dysphonia can affect all aspects of a person’s life including their general health and wellbeing. Yet, until now there has been little local support, opportunity to share experiences, or general awareness of voice disorders. The ADN was founded by Louise Bale who has been living with mixed spasmodic dysphonia for the past 11 years. Louise felt the need to give voice to those living with all forms of chronic voice disorders, recognising that regardless of the diagnosis, the impact of life with dysphonia was just as challenging. In October 2015, she hosted ‘Dysphonia - Let’s talk about it’, an independent, one-day conference in Sydney for people living with a voice disorder, their partners,

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June 2016 www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

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