Derek and Macie
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
‘Would we say that a child in a wheelchair who wasn’t able to get up a step wasn’t trying enough? No way! We haven’t provided a ramp to help! ADHD is a disability that needs recognition and support, not blame.’
Macie is mum to Derek, a young boy with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Macie wrote to the Royal Commission about the lack of support Derek has experienced throughout his primary school education.
‘They never take into account the fact that he has ADHD and he puts so much effort into trying to self-regulate, let alone completing school work.’
Macie says that instead of providing support for Derek’s ‘executive functioning issues’, the school blames him for not making enough effort.
‘This constant blaming reinforces that the child is not “good enough”.’
Macie believes there is insufficient recognition and support in the education system for children like Derek who have ADHD.
‘ADHD can cause as much impairment as ASD [autism]. Each case needs to be looked at individually. Funding for adjustments and treatment needs to be equitable!’
Macie is also frustrated that clinical tests for ADHD are so expensive. She says this results in many children missing out on early intervention.
‘It should not be so difficult to get a diagnosis for ASD or ADHD. It can be very EXPENSIVE! We know early intervention is the best so we need a clear, cheap path.’
Macie would like to see ADHD achieve the same level of recognition as ASD.
‘Both will be seen as a neurodiverse way of being, with pros and cons. All people with these conditions are individuals who have a lot to offer!’
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.