Advocacy: The Emotional Rollercoaster of Fighting for What's Right

Advocacy isn’t just about standing up for someone’s rights; it’s a heart-pounding, soul-wrenching journey where every decision feels like a battle. It’s about being a voice for those who feel voiceless, fighting for people who are often left to navigate a complex system that doesn’t make room for their unique needs. As an advocate, you’re constantly putting yourself in a position where emotions can get the best of you — and that’s okay. The pressure can feel unbearable at times, especially when you’re advocating for people who don’t even know what to say or how to start the process. I get it because I’ve been there.

Every time I walk into an advocacy meeting, it feels like a full-body workout. My heart is racing, my mind is buzzing, and my hands are shaking with nerves. But I know I have to pull it together. I have to focus. I have to stay grounded and remember why we’re here and what we’re fighting for. The stakes are high, and I can’t let the emotions get the best of me. But it doesn’t make it any easier. It’s personal. It’s always personal.

As a Deaf person whose rights have been denied time and time again, I understand the fight firsthand. Growing up, I constantly faced injustice in the school system. I fought battles alone, without the right support, and was left to navigate a world that wasn’t built with me in mind. I still feel that sting today when I sit down with clients, whether they are children or adults. Seeing them go through the same struggles I did brings up a lot of emotion. It reminds me of what I went through, but it also fuels my passion to help make sure that no one else has to endure what I did.

It’s rewarding to be able to offer support and be a voice for others. But the emotional toll is real. I know exactly how the client feels, and I know how the parents or carers are feeling too. They’re scared, frustrated, and overwhelmed. It’s a lot to carry. And some days, when I hear something that’s so completely out of touch or downright ridiculous, I have to fight the urge to scream, “What the heck, Karen? Seriously, do you know how ignorant you sound right now?”

Trust me, there are moments when I just want to lose it and let the frustration out. And while it may feel better in the moment to let my emotions take over, that’s not the way to advocate effectively. Advocacy isn’t about yelling or making a scene, even though the frustration is real. It’s about being strategic, being prepared, and standing tall with the facts. The law is on our side, and that’s where we need to go — to the facts, to the legislation, to the legal protections that ensure everyone gets the rights they deserve.

The key to advocacy is knowledge. The more you know, the stronger your position. And if you don’t know, get help. Don’t go into these battles alone. There’s a whole team of people out there who can help back you up. Whether it’s a specialist, a therapist, a lawyer, or an advocate like myself — having a team on your side is essential. No one should have to go through the advocacy journey alone.

So, whether you’re fighting for access to services, education, employment, or healthcare, know that you don’t have to do it all by yourself. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, reach out. There are professionals who know how to navigate these systems and get results. But always remember this: you don’t have to carry the burden on your own.

If you’re advocating for your child or yourself and you’re facing barriers because of hearing loss, I’m here to help. We fight battles across a range of systems, from the NDIS to the education system to workplace accessibility. If you need support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make sure that what happened to me doesn’t happen to you or anyone else. Let’s fight the fight — together.