Hello! My name is Em, and I am beyond honored to have been selected to represent Australia at the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships. Competing as a II-3 Para Track and Field Athlete which is an athlete recognised as having Autism, I have the privilege of showing the world the strength and talent of neurodivergent athletes.

My Journey: A Story of Resilience and Determination

Athletics has been my passion since I was seven years old, with my career starting in 2004 with the Queanbeyan Little Athletics Club. From my first state medal to dreams of Olympic glory, the track has always felt like home.

But my journey has been anything but easy. At 14, a serious foot injury led to a devastating diagnosis, and I was told I would never run again. For years, I stepped away from the sport as an athlete, believing my dream was over. But in 2019, I decided seven years away was long enough. Despite further injuries, multiple surgeries, and setbacks, I refused to give up. Against initial medical advice, I returned, pushed through the challenges, and found new ways to keep competing.

What makes this journey even more special is that I am not just an athlete. Most importantly I am a mother of 2. Balancing high-level competition with the realities of parenting is no easy feat, but my children are a huge source of motivation. Some of my biggest athletic achievements have been achieved whilst navigating pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and the challenges of raising a young family. My return to the sport wasn’t just about proving something to myself, it was about showing my children the power of resilience, determination, and pursuing dreams no matter the obstacles.

Fast forward to today and I’ve earned an array of medals at various championships, overcome physical and personal hurdles, and now, I stand on the brink of competing on the world stage.

Why I Need Your Support

Despite representing Australia, I receive no government funding to cover the costs of competing at the Virtus World Athletics Championships. Flights, accommodation, uniforms, entry fees - it all comes out of my own pocket.

This journey isn't just about me. I want to inspire and bring awareness to autistic athletes, proving that we belong in Track and Field and that there is a place for us at the highest levels of competition. Whilst the II-3 classification does not currently lead to Paralympic representation, I know change is on the horizon and it's change that I hope to be a part of through competition and advocation.

How You Can Help

Every donation, big or small, means the world to me and helps cover essential costs, including:

• Travel expenses (flights, ground transport)
• Accommodation
• Competition entry fees
• Uniforms and insurance

Even if you’re unable to donate, sharing my campaign or sending well-wishes helps keep this dream alive.

The Little Girl Who Never Gave Up

At seven years old, I told my parents, teachers, and friends that one day, I was going to represent Australia in Athletics. Despite every challenge, setback, and doubt thrown my way, I’m doing exactly what I said I would.

Thank you for your support! Dreams are never built alone, and they thrive through the unwavering belief of a community. Together, we can uplift autistic athletes, showcasing our rightful place on the world stage as we continue breaking barriers and redefining what’s possible