The disability supporter, broadcaster, comedian and writer Stella Young died aged 32. The ABC, for whom Young had worked, reported her death on Monday morning. In a statement her family said she died unexpectedly, but in no pain. "With great sadness we accept the passing of Stella Young, our much-loved and irreplaceable daughter and sister," the statement said. "Our loss is a deeply personal one. We request privacy during this difficult time."
She was born with osteogenesis imperfecta (成骨不全症), but it did not automatically make her exceptional. "Disability doesn't make you exceptional, but questioning what you think you know about it does," she said in a TEDx talk in April. The ABC's managing director, Mark Scott, said the Victorian was "an unforgettable communicator and an enthusiastic supporter."
"The nation came to know her through her writing for the ABC, her appearance at TEDx and on Q&A. Stella helped us understand disability issues by sharing with real honesty about her own life...She took great delight in challenging traditional wisdom and lazy thinking." The former Prime Minister Julia Gillard said on Twitter Young was a "shining light" for action on disability. We mourn her passing and rededicate (再次奉献) ourselves to her spirit.
Those who loved Young were very sad when hearing this bad news. Young was the former editor of the ABC's disability news and opinion website, Ramp Up. She had been scheduled to record more ABC radio this week. She was a member of numerous disability bodies.
Young was named the best newcomer at this year's Melbourne International Comedy Festival for her show Tales From The Crip. She was set to tour nationally and take her act to London next year, AAP reported. Friends, ABC news, politicians and disability organizations voiced their sorrow at the news and appreciation of Young's life.
