Mito warrior wins award

By Lachlan Ellis

A local disability advocate has won an award from Australia’s leading stroke charity, acknowledging the tireless work he’s done over the years.

Twelve-year-old Noah Barlow from Bacchus Marsh writes books, co-produces a podcast, and advocates for accessible and inclusive playgrounds, for kids with special needs.

Last Thursday, Noah won the Stroke Foundation’s ‘Stroke Warrior Award’, for his inspiring work helping make Australia a more inclusive place.

Noah is the oldest person in the world with incurable mitochondrial disorder (also known as mito), which results in strokes.

His most recent stroke, the ninth he’s had, struck on Boxing Day, taking his ability to walk and requiring an extended trip to the hospital, which meant he missed out on receiving the Stroke Warrior Award in person.

But that hasn’t dampened his spirits, with the little legend telling the Moorabool News he was “super excited” to receive the award, brought to him in hospital by none other than Darth Vader on Star Wars Day (May the 4th).

“It was a privilege to win the award, there were so many incredible people in the running. At first I thought ‘damn, I missed it [the award ceremony]’, and then the Star Wars people came and I was like, ‘wow’! It was really cool,” Noah said.

“Winning the award just makes me want to do more for people like me with disabilities and, help them wherever I can really. And I’m glad I’m bringing awareness to mito, and other disabilities too.”

Recent projects Noah’s been involved in include his podcast, and being part of the launch of wheelchair Auskick, which officially kicked off on Sunday in Bundoora after two years of work behind the scenes.

And to other people with disabilities, Noah has an inspiring message.

“Know that you can do anything that you choose to do. It’s okay to ask for support and do things differently. It still counts – you can do anything you put your mind to,” he said.

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr Lisa Murphy congratulated Noah on everything he has accomplished.

“Noah’s resilience and determination to make the world more inclusive deserves to be recognised. He has achieved so much in just 12 years and is an inspiration, his family should be very proud,” Dr Murphy said.

“Our community is better because of young people like Noah who are committed to sharing their knowledge and educating others.”

The Stroke Warrior Award recognises children and teens (aged 18 and under) who have raised awareness of stroke, supported the recovery of a loved one, or shown drive and resilience in their own recovery.