Jerusha

How Jerusha finds joy

Reading one book in high school changed Jerusha’s life.

“The book was The Brain That Changes Itself by Dr Norman Doige,” Jerusha says. “It was what first made me curious about neuroscience.”

Fast forward a few years, and Jerusha is now doing her PhD at Victoria University. She is researching how exercise and non-invasive brain stimulation affects adults living with cerebral palsy. It’s a subject that is personal to her.

“Living with cerebral palsy has its challenges,” Jerusha says. “But it has taught me to find joy in life’s smallest moments. I think it’s helped me to become a more compassionate person.”

She adds, “It has also been quite motivating. I’m a perfectionist and I get the job done!”

The road to her PhD has not always been smooth. Jerusha’s studies have required a lot of dedication and hard work, but she’s proud of what she’s achieved.

“I hope I can contribute to and motivate more conversations about this area of research,” she says.

Outside of neuroscience, Jerusha’s interests include music, travel and poetry. Many of her poems are inspired by her faith, which is an important part of her life.

“I believe in God and that's really helped me in my daily life,” Jerusha says. “I am more empowered to do things through my faith.” 

Jerusha also loves being in water, whether that’s swimming, hydro surfing or other water activities. She finds it relaxing and helpful for both her mental and physical health.

“Sometimes, I wish I was a mermaid!” she says.

Jerusha believes the Disability Gateway is a useful resource for the disability community. The way the website is organised by different areas of life is particularly appealing to her.

“It has some really great information,” she says. “It’s good to know where I, and others, can go to for support if we need it.”

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