Steph Gordon wearing her Paramedics Uniform

The Healing Power of Advocacy: Stephanie Gordon’s Journey


Stephanie Gordon’s life changed forever on 1 January 2021, when her father, Byron Gordon, was tragically killed in a cycling accident caused by an impaired driver. A respected paramedic and loving daughter, Stephanie has since channelled her grief into advocacy for road safety. Her story highlights the transformative power of turning personal pain into meaningful action.

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From Grief to Advocacy

Stephanie’s journey began with an unthinkable loss. Byron, a beloved GP, was cycling along Seaview Road in Henley Beach when a drug-impaired driver struck and killed him. Despite the immediate efforts of witnesses, including Byron’s friend Geoffrey Doe, he could not be saved.

At [07:25], Stephanie shares, “I felt helpless. I’ve spent my career saving lives, but I couldn’t save my dad.” This tragedy reshaped her perspective as a paramedic, deepening her understanding of the ripple effects of road trauma.

Rather than succumbing to despair, Stephanie channelled her emotions into advocacy. “I knew I couldn’t change what happened, but I could fight to prevent it from happening to others,” she says at [10:10].

Steph wearing her paramedics uniform explaining
Stephanie channelled her emotions into advocacy. “I knew I couldn’t change what happened, but I could fight to prevent it from happening to others,”

Road Safety Advocacy

Stephanie has become a vocal advocate for road safety, using her platform to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of mutual respect between drivers and cyclists.

At [14:45], she states, “Every decision on the road matters. A moment’s recklessness can destroy lives forever.” Her message is clear: drivers and cyclists must share the responsibility for safety.

Stephanie also emphasises the importance of community education. “We need to start these conversations in schools and workplaces,” she says. “If we teach respect and responsibility early, we can save lives.”

Her advocacy extends to supporting legislation for harsher penalties for impaired driving and improved infrastructure for cyclists. “Better bike lanes and stricter laws aren’t just ideas; they’re lifesaving measures,” she notes at [19:30].

Turning Grief Into Purpose

Stephanie Gordon’s journey is a powerful example of turning grief into purpose. By advocating for road safety, she honours her father’s memory and strives to create lasting change. Her story reminds us of the critical role community action plays in addressing preventable tragedies.

Through her efforts, Stephanie is not only preserving her father’s legacy but also inspiring others to take responsibility on the road. As she says, “If my advocacy saves even one life, it’s worth it.”

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