Safeguarding the future conference - Canberra, 23-24 May 2024

Succession: My family’s story: Who’s next?

"Sometimes when things fall apart, well, that's the big opportunity to change." - Pema Chödrön

In this presentation, Sherryn West shares her family’s story of succession following the death of their mother and the changes that occurred for her sister, Marisha, who lives with an intellectual impairment.

Sherryn is the oldest of five siblings. Like many mothers, Sherryn and Marisha’s mother was the informal coordinator of Marisha’s day-to-day supports. When she died, Sherryn began thinking about how she could best support her sister and her father.

Sherryn hopes that, by sharing her story, other families will be well-prepared to safeguard their family members following the inevitable loss of a parent.

 

About Sherryn West

Portrait of Sherryn WestSherryn has worked in the community services and disability sector in management and leadership positions for over 20 years. She, her husband, and their dog live in Brisbane.

Sherryn is also a sister, and it’s in this capacity that Sherryn presented in this workshop.