When Taylah Pringle and her Army husband Josh moved to Brisbane last year they had more pressing needs than just finding a comfortable family home.

Of course, one priority was finding a good school for their four year old son Hunter. But more importantly, they needed to be close to the best available healthcare for Taylah, who has Cystic Fibrosis.

Taylah, a nursing student, and Josh are originally from Wollongong, NSW. Josh joined the Australian Army in 2016 and they moved to Albury, NSW, where he undertook his initial training as a Fitter Armament, before being posted to Brisbane, QLD, in September 2019.

Taylah was first diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when she was just two minutes old. Cystic Fibrosis is a recessive genetic condition affecting one baby born every four days. It primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. While there is no cure, treatments have improved significantly in recent years. They include regular physiotherapy, which is vital in maintaining optimal airway clearance, and medication.

‘When we were looking for a house, we primarily looked at things like the accessibility of healthcare and schools,’ said Taylah.

‘I require regular medical care. A benefit of my husband being in the ADF is that we can access the best healthcare in Australia. DHA helped us to find a home in our preferred area to accommodate this.’

Hunter is set to start at his local school next year and Taylah is just minutes from the healthcare that she needs.

The family has benefited enormously by being part of the ADF community.

‘We’ve been able to see more of Australia and lead an adventurous life,’ said Taylah.

‘We really love our life and lifestyle. Although it's not always easy, we’re happy and wouldn't change anything.’

While Taylah finds it challenging when Josh is away and misses out on special events, the family has a strong network around them.

‘Defence Community Organisation and Defence Special Needs Support Group have been really good in regards to giving us help, guidance and information,’ said Taylah.

‘We know Hunter will have even more support when he starts primary school next year with the in school support that Defence provides.’