Meet our mummas: Katie

SHE is fiery, she's inspirational, she is Katie; our mumma from Woodford. 

Persona: Wheelchair mum with a go get 'em attitude

Age: 36

Lives: Woodford, Queensland

Kids: Two kids, aged 11 and 14

How would you describe being a mum? One of the hardest things I've ever done in my life. It has taken me to some of the darkest places I've ever been to. It's been the best and worst part of my life and it is what has made me. Being disabled makes it tough, but I am still giving them the opportunity to do well in life.

What advice would you give to other mums out there who struggle with the same issues as you? I had postnatal depression when my youngest was 18 months old. I had read all the books, listened to the advice and did all the things I was meant to do. But at that point, I was horrified at how terrible a mum I was. So went to the doctors, and he asked, 'have you any help?' That's where I went wrong - not asking for help and trying to do it all myself. So, talk to people, let them help!

Tell us about an embarrassing moment that has happened to you in the past with your kids? I told my eldest this story would come back to bite her! She was three years old and she had filled her nappy and went to hide in Kmart. I lost her and went to the lady at the front desk. So they stopped all people coming in and out and had the whole shop looking for her. They found her in the back, drinking a popper, but took off the nappy and tried to clean it up herself, but had a mess everywhere and the nappy was gone! It was pretty gross!

What's the one issue you grapple with internally regarding your life and kids? I've sailed through quite well up to this point, but my eldest is now 14, and because I remember what I was like, I'm scared to death about what she has now been exposed to. She's amazing, but I'm finding it hard as I'm parenting: I kind of come back to what I was like. Doesn't help as I got my injury at 16 by getting into a car with a drunk driver.

Who has shaped you as a person/been influential in your life? I would have to say a few people. My best friend, my mum. There is a lady I used to talk to a lot who has five kids. She taught me the aeroplane technique - when the plane is going down, the oxygen masks fall down and you have to look after yourself first then your children. If you don't, you can't be of help to them.

Who is your idol and why? My idol is my dad. Always looked up to him. He made me think the simple things in life make the difference: be kind, courteous and generally good.