TESTIMONIALS

It has been heard by individuals with lived experience that being involved in projects where co-design is at the forefront, allows them to turn what may be perceived as a "negative" experience into something "positive", - to help others who were once, or are currently walking in their shoes

"[Co-design gave me] a chance to share productively. I have made the most solid connections and life long friends through the process of co-design. I have personally reaped the benefits of this process and can first hand speak to how amazing it’s been. Something I've said from the start is I wish everyone got to experience what I have." -  Lived Experience Consultant

"Co-design has been one of the best outlets for me to not only process my lived experience, but then also watch something amazing and tangible be built out of it. It has given me a sense of purpose and validation. It’s really easy to think nothing good can come from negative experiences but co-design has proved me wrong there. Every experience has value." -  Lived Experience Consultant

"I’ve heard it over and over again amongst my peers who are seeking out healthcare, “How can they understand it if they have never been through it?” This is a way to finally bridge that gap. Professionals will be able to work alongside the lived experience and gain a sense of their stakeholders realities" - Lived Experience Consultant

It has been heard by family members and caregivers that their voices are often placed on the "backburner", and that there are little supports and educational awareness for family members - Family and caregivers report wanting to be involved in the co-design of projects and initiatives, to ensure that their loved ones are receiving proper care, as well as the importance of receiving support themselves

"I learned more from lived experience than I had ever learned in the 5 gruelling years of my degree, and many years of extended education credits. Co-design has provided me with invaluable lessons and the ability to see just how important it is to listen and value the voices of individuals that really know how a situation feels, first hand." - Lived Experience & Professional