My name is Danee and I am a counsellor specialising in genetics and patient advocacy. I wish to use my combination of empathetic nature, scientific knowledge and counselling skills to improve the accessibility to genetic services. And to support patients during difficult health decisions.

With a Bachelor of Science majoring in genetics and microbiology, I began my career in the Australian pharmaceutical industry, and learnt how to manoeuvre through the medical system. I have since updated my knowledge by completing a Diploma of Counselling and a short course at University of New South Wales in Practical Medical Genomics.

I have experienced how patients feel when faced with a genetic testing confrontation – at 32 weeks pregnant, there were questions regarding my daughter’s health status surrounding her size and possible genetic testing was discussed.  Following her birth and a visit to hospital, we were encouraged to complete genetic testing to rule out any metabolic disorders due to her ‘failure to thrive’. This presented 2 confronting scenarios where we had to work through the decisions and emotions associated with potential life changing tests.

I’m further passionate about patient advocacy because I have supported my mother during her battle with a rare autoimmune diagnosis. Through dealing with hospitals, private specialists, public health units etc I witnessed how difficult the healthcare system can be to navigate in Australia.