About Us

Corinne Lawson

OUR FOUNDER

Corinne Lawson (Walters)

Living Undiagnosed
For most of my life, I lived with the constant feeling that something just wasn’t right. Unbeknownst to me, I had Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI)—a rare metabolic disorder that often goes unrecognized, especially here in Australia.

Because HFI is so uncommon, information and support can be incredibly hard to find. Despite years of medical tests, I was left without answers. It wasn’t until I took matters into my own hands—researching tirelessly and asking the right questions—that I finally received a diagnosis through genetic testing at the age of 45.

This organisation was born out of that journey. It's a space created for individuals and families affected by HFI to find guidance, reliable information, and a sense of community. You're not alone in this. We’re here to help you navigate the challenges of living with HFI—together.

OUR DIRECTORS

Kristina Thacker

Kristina Thacker

Kristina is the devoted mother of two children living with Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI). Through her family’s journey, she has become a strong advocate for awareness, education, and support around this rare condition. Kristina is passionate about sharing her lived experience to help other families navigate the challenges of HFI and to create a greater understanding of how it impacts daily life.

Professionally, Kristina has spent the majority of her career in the public health care sector, where she worked extensively in medical education. As a Medical Education Support Officer, she played a key role in facilitating junior doctors’ training and education. She later served as an Executive Services Consultant, where she was responsible for reviewing policies, procedures, and governance frameworks, as well as ensuring compliance with the GIPA Act.

Kristina brings to the board a unique combination of governance expertise, healthcare knowledge, and lived experience.

Bio
Kelly Greig

Kelly Greig

Kelly found out she had HFI from a dietician at the age of 24 following an extremely dangerous fructose hydrogen breath test. Despite this, it took her 5 years to receive an official diagnosis, which she finally received at the age of 29. She knows first-hand how difficult it is to be diagnosed as an adult, and is determined to see positive change in the medical industry so others can easily find the support they need to manage this rare condition.

Kelly has a PhD in biological sciences, specialising in entomology and evolution. She is currently working as a research scientist in the field of sustainable agriculture. She is passionate about creating a future where we can thrive alongside our environment, rather than against it.

Her background in biological sciences was crucial in getting her own diagnosis for HFI, and now she hopes it will help others too. Her expertise is a valuable addition to our team.

Bio
Kristina Thacker

Amelia Walters

Amelia Walters has a personal connection to Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI). Her mother and her two uncles all live with the condition. She herself along with her siblings carry the gene for HFI. Her insight into the condition, both as a family member and gene carrier, gives her a deep understanding of the importance of creating awareness, fast diagnosis, and support for others affected by HFI.

Amelia is a practising solicitor who specialises in Family and Criminal Law. She is passionate about helping people and supporting them through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

She knows the importance of being in good health and the effects diet can have on your life. Amelia is an absolute asset to the association, and we are lucky to have her as part of our team!

Bio
Verity

Verity Thacker

Verity Thacker is a proud grandmother to two beautiful grandchildren living with Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI). Through their experiences, she has witnessed firsthand the many challenges faced by those with HFI, not only the serious health impacts but also the social difficulties that can arise.

Passionate about making a difference, Verity is committed to raising awareness, promoting education, and advocating for the importance of early diagnosis, ensuring better outcomes for all those affected by HFI.

Now retired, Verity draws on a diverse professional background spanning both the public and private sectors. Her career included roles in administration, finance, business systems, and project, quality, and risk management.

Bio

OUR AFFILIATIONS

HFI Support UK
https://hfisupport.org.uk/
William Armstrong, Carolyn Westwood – Co-founders

de l’association pour les intolérants au fructose – Lyon, France
https://fructosamispourlavie.org/
Virginie MAZOYER – Présidente

Associazione Italiana Fruttosemici – AIF Onlus – Naples, Italy
https://www.aifrut.it/
Bianca Martinelli

Betty Cookie Walters

HFI SUPPORT ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA - DEDICATION TO BETTY WALTERS

Our Beautiful ‘Cookie’

This organisation is lovingly dedicated to our cherished Nanna, Betty Walters—affectionately known as ‘Cookie’ during her time cheffing for the WAAF.

Nanna lived her entire life with undiagnosed Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI), never fully understanding why her body reacted the way it did, or why her palette seemed so “quirky” to others. Despite the challenges, she carried herself with grace, humour, and resilience.

It’s in her honour that this space was created—a place of calm, understanding, and connection for others navigating life with HFI. Whether you're newly diagnosed or still searching for answers, please know this: you are not alone. There are others out there just like you, and we are here to support you on your journey.