“She couldn’t walk, but she danced through life”.

Stephanie-Ann Clifford was full of life. She was diagnosed at a young age with Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) — a rare, neurodegenerative condition that causes severe disability and shortens life. Stephie’s physical world became more limited over time, but her light, joy, and presence only expanded.

She laughed loudly, loved generously, and lived each moment like it truly mattered.

As her condition progressed, her parents — Gavin and Andrea Clifford — co-founders of Stephie’s Choice Foundation — watched her struggle with something as simple as eating. The food options available to her were limited, bland, and often unappetising. It became clear there was a real need for meals that were not only safe to eat, but also comforting and enjoyable. 

So, Gavin took matters into his own hands. He started preparing meals specifically for Stephie — meals that were tailored to her needs but still made with care, flavour and love. That small act grew into a much bigger vision: to provide high-quality, texture-modified meals to others facing similar challenges. 

From there, Ezy Chef was born. And later, Ezy Foods (following Stephie’s passing) — a purpose-driven food manufacturing business grounded in compassion, quality, and real-world experience. 

To honour Stephie’s memory, her family established the Stephie’s Choice Foundation Ltd — an ACNC Registered charity dedicated to helping others less able. 

Our mission is simple, yet powerful: 

“Make a positive difference in people’s lives through Living in the Moment.” 

Stephie’s Choice Foundation raises awareness around ‘Living in the Moment’, supports children and young adults with a disability and through Ezy Foods advocates for better food standards across care settings. It also collaborates with healthcare providers, NDIS partners, and food manufacturers to ensure people with swallowing difficulties aren’t overlooked. 

In every initiative, Stephie’s spirit lives on — through food, support, and hope.