Meatball and Diana

About the author

Danielle McCarthy

Danielle McCarthy is an Australian author, advocate, and social work researcher whose work addresses health, disability, mental health, resilience, identity, and belonging. Drawing on 25 years in education and her lived experience of Young Onset Parkinson's Disease, she writes to build empathy and advance social change. Danielle will complete a Master of Social Work at the University of Canberra in May 2027. She also holds a Master of Education and postgraduate certificates from the Australian Catholic University. Her interests include social justice, lived-experience leadership, community empowerment, and storytelling for education and advocacy. Across children's literature, creative nonfiction, poetry, film, and public education, she makes complex health and social issues accessible, reduces stigma, and fosters compassion. As a speaker, mentor, fundraiser, researcher, and ambassador, Danielle advocates within Parkinson's and disability communities. She supports Parkinson's NSW, Parkinson's Australia, The Disability Trust, and WayAhead Mental Health Association NSW. Through writing, presentations, research, and creative projects, she amplifies underrepresented voices and uses personal stories to promote understanding, empowerment, and positive change.