Massa’s son, Joe Massa, died in 2024, a loss that motivated her to act.

After her son’s death, Massa led a community campaign that succeeded in moving Northern Beaches Hospital from private to public control.

The campaign also created “Joe’s Law”, a rule that stops future public‑private partnerships in major hospitals, and in April the hospital officially became publicly owned, as reported by ABC News.

Incumbent Liberal James Griffin announced he will not recontest the Manly seat, opening the field for Massa’s independent run, where she says she will focus on health, housing and transport.

Massa’s story shows how a personal tragedy can spark grassroots activism that changes health policy and launches a political career.