Episode 5

full
Published on:

20th Aug 2026

My Time is Your Time

Caring for a loved one with intellectual disability can be incredibly rewarding—but it can also be isolating.

Many carers face daily challenges, including social isolation, limited respite, navigating complex support systems, and balancing their own wellbeing.

In this episode of Now and the Future, host Michael Harrison is joined by Janene McPhillips, facilitator of the MyTime groups in Lawnton and Caboolture.

As both a dedicated facilitator and a mum with lived experience as a full-time carer, Janene shares her personal journey, the power of connecting with others who truly understand, and why MyTime has become such an important source of support for so many families.

Together, they explore how finding your tribe, building friendships, and taking time for yourself can make a real difference—not only for carers, but for the entire family.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • What the MyTime program is and who it's for
  • The biggest challenges facing carers today
  • How MyTime helps reduce social isolation
  • The importance of connection, friendship, and peer support
  • Janene's journey from attending MyTime to becoming a facilitator
  • Why taking time for yourself makes you a stronger carer

If you're a parent, family member, or carer of a child with disability, developmental delay, or a chronic medical condition, this episode is for you.

Learn more about MyTime and find a group near you:

https://www.downsyndrome.org.au/qld/services-and-supports/family-carers-and-friends/mytime/

Down Syndrome & Intellection Disabilities Queensland (DSIDQ)

Website – www.downsyndrome.org.au/qld/

Phone: (07) 3356 6655

Email: office@dsidq.org.au

Disclaimer: This episode is for general information only and does not constitute professional advice. Please seek independent advice relevant to your circumstances.

https://www.downsyndrome.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Disclaimer.pdf

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About the Podcast

Now And The Future
The Down Syndrome & Intellectual Disability Queensland Podcast
The Now And The Future podcast is an exciting way of sharing stories of Down Syndrome Queensland members, as well as opportunities, challenges and provide support and expert advice for the Down Syndrome community.
Down Syndrome Queensland’s vision is to support, advocate for and empower people with Down Syndrome to take their rightful places as valuable and contributing members of their community, both now and into the future.