A special message from Emma Vulin MP, the Member for Pakenham.
Our family first connected with Emma not long after her own MND diagnosis, which came around the same time as Shane’s. While we wish our paths had never crossed because of this disease, we are incredibly grateful they did.
Finn has always had a special fondness for Emma and is always happy than when he gets the chance to see her. I think that’s because Emma has a way of making people feel seen, heard and important, even while carrying so much herself.
Over the past two years, I have watched Emma confront this disease with extraordinary courage, determination and grace. While facing the daily realities of MND, she has continued to serve her community, advocate for causes she believes in and use her voice to help others.
What I admire most is that Emma has never allowed MND to define her. Instead, she has used her platform to shine a light on the challenges faced by those living with the disease. She has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of MND, support organisations such as MND Victoria and FightMND, share her own experiences publicly and help educate the broader community about the impact of this cruel disease.
Emma has also been a powerful advocate for accessibility and inclusion. Even while navigating her own changing physical abilities, she has pushed for improvements within Parliament and beyond, helping ensure people living with disabilities are better represented, better supported and better heard.
She has participated in television, media and awareness campaigns, openly sharing her journey in the hope that it will lead to greater understanding, increased support and ultimately better outcomes for those diagnosed in the future. Through these efforts she is creating a legacy that will extend far beyond politics.
As a local member, Emma has always been passionate about the Pakenham community and making meaningful change. While we are incredibly sad to see her leave Parliament later this year, her impact on our community and on the MND community will continue long after her final day in office.
The words she shared about Shane in Parliament meant more to our family than I can properly put into words. To have someone who truly understands this journey acknowledge Shane’s life, his fight and the impact he had on others is something we will never forget.
Thank you, Emma, for your kindness, your friendship, your advocacy and your strength. We are so proud to have shared part of this journey with you and are grateful for everything you have done for people living with MND and their families.
Link to the video: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17eAAWqgPG