Stronger, braver, capable: Melbourne Disability Expo Ambassador Sam Bloom

We are all stronger, braver and more capable than we realise. This is Sam’s powerful message for the My Future, My Choice Melbourne Disability Expo at Melbourne Convention Centre in November.

Through a visually immersive and intimate conversation, Sam will share her experience of a dream life instantly turned into a nightmare when she suffered a freak accident on holiday in Thailand that left her paralysed from the chest down.

Leading us through the extraordinary highs and painful lows of life before, during and after the near-fatal accident in 2013, Sam will share how family, love, and a unique connection with the natural world supported her from deep physical suffering and depression to becoming a bestselling author, two-times World Para Surfing champion, and inspiration behind the international hit movie Penguin Bloom, starring Naomi Watts.

Sam is a mum to three boys, and a former adventure traveller and neurology nurse. She works with numerous spinal cord injury charities around the world in the quest to find a cure for spinal cord injury, including as a global ambassador for Wings For Life.

Her true story holds a poignant message for all of us as we navigate our own challenges, inspiring us to become the best version of ourselves, live our lives to the fullest, and be grateful for each day.

The FREE, Covid-safe My Future, My Choice Melbourne Disability Expo on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 November 2022, features hundreds of service and product providers from a variety of categories, including:

  • Government and advocacy organisation
  • Aids and equipment providers
  • Financial and legal services
  • Education, training, and employment providers
  • Social and leisure options
  • Transport and vehicles
  • Health and medical products and services
  • Allied health professionals
  • Support services including in home care providers.

Presenters will answer your burning questions as you get to discuss the details of products and services. Navigate exactly where you want to go next using the wayfinding app, BindiMaps, who will map the whole event. Enjoy the breakout areas and live, all-ability performances while sipping from your cuppa purchased at the expo café.

The Expo Guide is available now. Register early so you can jump the entry queues!

“You really are braver than you think. There really is hope, so don’t give up.” Sam Bloom