As part of Invisible Disabilities Week we spoke with Carolyn Oxenham, Senior Payments Officer at the Lifetime Support Authority (LSA), whose story is a powerful reminder of resilience, innovation, and the value of lived experience.

Carolyn has been part of the LSA team for years, and her contributions go far beyond her role. In 2022, she was recognised with the LSA Values Award for Innovation and Growth and the “Making a Difference so South Australia Thrives” award.

“I ask a lot of questions to make sure I’m always doing my job correctly, and that curiosity helps me solve problems and be proactive.”

Carolyn also stepped up as Acting Accounts Payable Team Leader for three months, implementing changes that strengthened team cohesion and supported growth with her leadership style grounded in empathy and practical problem-solving.

Outside of work, Carolyn is a passionate hiker. She’s completed three climbs up Mount Remarkable and is currently trekking the Walk the Yorke trail with her family over weekends, covering 152 km so far.

Carolyn has lived with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for over 31 years. She’s open about her journey with an invisible disability, sharing how she manages symptoms through mindfulness, meditation, gratitude, and a plant-based wholefoods diet.

She’s also candid about the misconceptions she faces: “You look okay, so you must be okay.” Carolyn counters these with education and openness. “I talk to as many people as I can about MS. The more people know, the better they understand.”

Carolyn credits the LSA and the Department of Treasury and Finance   for their support and advocates for the Employee Assistance Program, particularly around managing working during high temperatures that can impact people with MS.

Her advice to colleagues?

Talk to people with a disability, visit support websites and speak with your well-being and diversity inclusion teams.