Not Just Work

By Debbie Mackenzie.

When I began assisting with the research Dr Gibilisco would later conduct in Hawaii early in 2008 I became aware that there were people with a general interest in the 
planned research. There were a variety of views. On reflection and with the 
wisdom of hindsight I now can see and appreciate the spectrum of opinion. 
Some people expressed enthusiastic support; they were excited about the 
project. Others, however, were more reserved. They seemed to express an 
undefined concern and I suspect they found it difficult to believe that such 
a trip could be possible. And yes, there were obstacles we had to overcome; 
however there was never lack of determination to see it through.



Most people involved in the network contributed with enthusiasm, but there 
were others that preferred to step back in fear that it may fail. I 
observed people not being able to comprehend how Dr Gibilisco, a person with 
such a severe physical disability, could undertake the trip; unfortunately, 
they let his disability get in the way of appreciating his capabilities. 
Also, there was incomprehension about me as the support worker. How would I 
be able to productively assist with the requirements of personal care while 
also assisting Dr Gibilisco with his research work and its complex demands.



Then there was the planning we needed to gain a successful research 
outcome. From the start of the project it was imperative that the focus be 
upon the avenues that need to be followed if the provision of equal access 
is to be achieved – it was that kind of meaningful and useful data that the 
research was seeking to generate. And so we engaged in networking with 
professionals who work within the disability sector and the people with 
physical disabilities themselves, some of whom are determined activists 
working to strengthen equality and rights for people with disabilities. 
These networks were those established on mainland US, Hawaii and Australia. 



There were many favorable responses received and they showed immense 
interest and many gave personal examples to reinforce the need for such 
research.



The overseas research trip incorporated hard work, but it was extremely 
rewarding and with memories I will hold close forever. After returning to 
Australia many people within the various networks expressed great interest 
and enthusiasm. So from this, it can be hoped the people who doubt will 
learn instead to find ways to empower others, whatever their dreams may be. 
Those who are committed already will be further encouraged to lend further 
support to those who continue to carry on this important work.



Dr Gibilisco and myself presented the outcomes on the ‘Importance of Support 
Workers’ at the Disability Professionals Victoria 2008 Conference and 
published the article on On-line Opinion Forum. On both occasions our work 
was received well and the reviews encourage us to keep going.