The Patient Voice Podcast
Our aim at Patient Voice Initiative is to ensure patient voices are seen, heard and valued in the Australian health system. But what is the patient voice and why is it important?Join us as we explore real experiences of health and healthcare through the people who most depend on it and how these stories can help us build better care for all.The podcast is hosted by the Patient Voice Initiative Chair and patient advocate, Jessica Bean, which means it is an opportunity to hear patients in discussion with another patient, rather than responding to questions from someone who does not live with the daily experience of being a patient.
The Patient Voice Podcast
Alex Parker shares her Cystic Fibrosis story
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The Patient Voice Initiative
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Season 1
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Episode 1
Alex Parker was born in country Victoria and diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at 6 weeks of age. She had a very normal childhood despite all the rigorous health routines to maintain her health.
But in her early 20s, her health started to deteriorate and she was in and out of hospital with lung infections. The future looked bleak until she was able to access an innovative new medicine.
However, she was only able to access it thanks to the generosity of her grandfather. So Alex and her family worked for more than four years to ensure others like her could access it in Australia.
Despite everything, Alex has established a successful career as a commercial advertising photographer, travelling the world to work on major campaigns.
She lives happily in Melbourne with her partner Michael, 4 year old daughter Ruby and dog Maxi.
Alex is joined by The Patient Voice Initiative Chair, patient advocate Jessica Bean.