Australia has lost a wonderful comedian and communicator with the passing of Stella Young over the weekend. I have seen some great comedians in my time and take a special interest in those who also have a disability. I have an affinity with Adam Hills because, like him, I wear a prosthetic like leg.

But Stella was much more than a comedian, she was a bridge. She helped the broad Australian public get past their prejudices and stereotypes and recognise those of us with disability as citizens just like them. While some of us have almost hidden our disability away (perhaps we just want to ‘fit in’) Stella put it out there to challenge us all – through her great work building Ramp Up, her comedy and most recently her TedX talk.  Stella’s family and close friends can remember a woman who left a great legacy that reflects the true value of diversity in our society. Others have been joining the relay with her, and will take up the torch she has carried as we seek to see every person valued and respected – irrespective of their race, creed, ability or impairments.