"So in 2015, I read an article that talked about the fact that there were 48,000 women in Australia who didn't have somewhere safe to call home. And while I'd imagined what that was like for people to not to be experiencing homelessness or not have somewhere safe, what I read next changed me forever and that they were using people were using socks and newspaper and wadded up toilet paper to do with their period. And I thought, my god, how does that even happen here in Australia?"
Welcome to 12 of “What I Don’t Want You to Know…”
In this powerful episode, we dive into the inspiring story of Rochelle Courtenay, lovingly known as the “Pad Lady”, and her journey founding “Share the Dignity”. If you’re unaware of this extraordinary charity, listen up to hear about how Rochelle and her team of “Sheroes” have made and continue to make significant strides in providing menstrual products to girls and women in need.
Rochelle's journey from a concerned individual to the founder of a nationwide organisation showcases the power of personal conviction and action - we still have goosebumps from hearing the reality of period poverty in Australia and how this sparked Rochelle’s mission to make a difference.
The goosebumps continue throughout our conversation with super brave confessions shared… confessions that Rochelle has never shared publicly before.
This episode dares to turn and face and talk about deeply complex truths, including family violence, mental ill health, suicide, ambiguous grief, addictions, trauma and shame.
Importantly, this conversation also reveals the transformative path of healing that Rochelle has been on… and whilst unpacking and healing from her past was seriously uncomfortable, the life she lives so passionately today is evidence that recovery is possible, and that a life of purpose, love and belly laughter is available too.
Words are deficient to describe how privileged we felt (and feel), for being trusted to hear such courageous vulnerability…
Equally, we remain profoundly inspired by the powerful reminder of how one person’s determination can lead to meaningful societal change.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE get involved with @sharethedignityaustralia - campaign “It’s in the Bag” collection points are open now at Bunnings stores nationwide (closing Dec 1st 2024).
Go gently…
Em & Tan xx
Links & Resources:
Share the Dignity
sharethedignity.org.au
instagram: @sharethedignityaustralia
Listen to “Another Bloody Podcast” - which drops once a month on the 28th. Rochelle explores the stories and individuals who make up Share the Dignity.
1800RESPECT - National Domestic Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service
1800respect.org.au
13YARN - Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders crisis support 13 92 76
13yarn.org.au
Ask Izzy - homelessness resource
askizzy.org.au
Lifeline
lifeline.org.au 131114
If life in danger, call Triple Zero 000
Keywords
Rochelle Courtenay, Share the Dignity, shame, suicide, family violence, recovery, personal growth, community impact, overcoming trauma
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