Bernadette's story is not an isolated one, as there are many members of the community both in the Waikato and nationwide who struggle to live fulfilling lives, as they are bound by planning their life choices around toileting facilities.
This often means people will stay home rather than face an embarrassing public situation.
The vulnerability of people with disabilities can lead to a number of other issues, such as loneliness, anger and extra stress on carers.
"Accessible change places mean that people with a disability won't have to stay in incontinence products all day," said Bernadette.
"We can stay out longer when out with family, and can even go to the pub in the evening."
Often people in this situation are confronted by isolation due to not having adequate facilities that meet their needs.
In desperation, some families resort to changing their family members on the floor of public toilets - which is unhygienic, undignified and unsafe, presenting risks for recipients and carers.
The alternative is to sit in soiled clothing until they get home.
Accessible Change Places is advocating for public change places, and a move towards sustainable facilities for the future of Hamilton. Accessible Change Places will provide an adult-sized change bench, a tracking hoist and enough space in a safe, clean environment, for people to use.
This is a cause that affects a large portion of our population, the group says.
It includes people with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, motor neuron disease, people who have a physical disability either from birth or from an accident, and the elderly.
"With baby boomers heading towards retirement we need to safeguard our futures and ensure all members of our society, especially our most vulnerable members are able to access the community and all of its facilities," said Saffron Mitchell, Community Living - a disability provider.
"This is something that could affect anyone one of us or someone we love. It is time for action," said Saffron.
"Inclusive communities mean people having all their basic needs met. It is not somebody else's problem, it is ours collectively.
"Currently we believe there are no public accessible change spaces in New Zealand and this is an opportunity for Hamilton to lead by example and inspire other areas to follow in our steps," said Saffron.
To find out more about the Accessible Change Places project, visit www.facebook.com/accessiblechangeplaces