An interview with Amanda Brown: Chronic Amanda’s Advocating on July 11, 2024.
Biography
I have had medical issues my entire life and never any answers until 2 years ago I was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder. It took me and my family doing our own research to try and understand FND and how to help my flare ups/symptoms.
Can you tell me more about your advocacy?
I am building an online presence and my own brand Chronic Amanda to eventually work with organizations to advocate for FND foremost but also other issues.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion/mission is to advocate for invisible disabilities by sharing my real and raw journey.
What type of goals do individuals with advocacy have when working with you?
To advocate for others, to help them feel seen and know life can still go on in a positive manner and sometimes humor is the best way to cope.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
Future programs I would like to teach individuals with FND that life can still be lived to the fullest. Also how to take a more positive approach to life.
What events do you participate in?
I have been a guest speaker for Job Access a government scheme in Australia that helps provide help in the workplace for those with disabilities.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
My future programs will assist support people on how best to react/help and to not enable a ‘victim mentality’ but also not to push their clients/loved ones.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
Email: chronicamanda@gmail.com
Insta/Tic Tok: @Chronicamanda
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Share the ups and downs of their story. Remember just because you continue a good life doesn’t discount that you are still disabled.
In your opinion what is the key to effective advocacy?
Being raw. Sharing the good the bad the sexy the ugly and blocking out any ‘haters’.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
I have a multidisciplinary approach:
Chiropractor
Physio
Hydrotherpy
Mobility Aids
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Just like any issue everyone should have basic knowledge so there can be more respect and it gets less taboo.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life which song would it be?
Love me or Hate me – Lady Sovereign
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Functional Neurological Disorder community, what would it be?
You have Functional neurological disorder it does not have you. You are not defined by FND or any stigmas surrounding it. Life may look different with it but you are still in charge of your future.