Commenting on the story: Blame game over woman’s “degrading” death while under care

I am often offended and upset by events that happen in our community, but never as much as this story about Ms Smith.

It is unfathomable how this happened. I have a 24 year old daughter with disability who is totally dependent upon others for her care and survival.

My husband and I agonise over what will become of her when we die or become unable to care for her.

This most horrific maltreatment and neglect of Ms Smith has given us no reprieve from our agonising, nor do we imagine the thousands of others in our situation.

The NDIS is a disaster for those with cognitive impairment of any kind and needs a complete overhaul.  It is a flawed model of disability care which just fosters that which we have sadly witnessed.

RIP Ann-Marie, and may there be a special place in heaven for you to heal from your hell on earth. – Janet Christopher

As an old RN who worked for 44 years with people with disabilities and in the aged care sector, I have to say how sad and distressed this has made me feel.

When I worked in the community as a co-ordinator we checked at least fortnightly with our clients to ensure all was well with them. We also visited clients,carer and if necessary family.

The carer should not be the only person to lose her job and be charged.

May this never happen again and all concerned be brought to task. Shame on them. – Karen Kempton

As a disabled person who manages nine different support workers in a week to help me do every day tasks like get up out of bed, shower and dress, I’ve come to appreciate the difference between Support Workers and Carers.

One is caring and supportive, and makes me feel valued. The other, through my experience, makes me hate my life and is the antithesis of caring.

The difference is one of training, self respect and attitude.

My heart breaks for Ann-Marie’s torture and that her carers considered her worthless. – Kirsty Martinsen

Commenting on the story: Centrelink explainer: your questions answered

I totally agree with the comments regarding $750 payment to pensioners, but no recognition to carers who save the country millions of dollars by volunteering the time to care for disabled or aged care patients 24/7 with no opportunity for respite.

Seems strange that frontline workers were lauded and congratulated (rightly so) in the media, but no mention or recognition of the back of house heroes who work 24/7 without any recognition whatsoever because they have no choice as carers of loved ones and children who need 24/7 care. – Jan Murray

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