This year the UKDHM theme focuses on disability and hidden impairments. We are reminded not to make snap judgments about other human beings. It’s an important awareness month since sadly some people still do this!
I, for instance, was born with cerebral palsy. It’s caused by a lack of oxygen during birth and affects people permanently with a wide spectrum of abilities. My CP only affects my right-hand side – although as a baby my parents were told that I’d never be able to walk or talk. I had a determined mind, learning both aged three, and I’m lucky enough to recall the momentous occasion.
So I am extremely fortunate to be able to walk since many are unable to; but as a younger person, because there was much stigma with disabilities, I pretended not to have a disability at all!
It was only a decade ago when my disability became more cumbersome and noticeable, and a caring friend advised that I could be eligible for help, that I looked into the Mobility scheme.
Of course, I was eligible, and although I hated the label, having a mobility car and a blue badge helped me maintain my independence. By this time my disability, with an awkward gait, was causing me what I call an “orchestra” of physical pain. It also makes me feel tired, but I pride myself on strength of mind and remind myself daily how grateful I am that I don’t endure other common symptoms of the disability.
Yet, people are still mean and rude – several times I have sensed people watching me park and blatantly waiting for me to get out of my car, which I know is their desire to authenticate my disability.
On two occasions I have coped with verbal abuse, but I have a plucky character, so I simply volunteer to show them a demo: even so, neither apologised to me!
My right leg is more under-developed than my left, my right arm too, which no longer straightens. But I reiterate how fortunate I feel and would ask the unkind people of the world to refrain from making snap judgments. Surely we humans are equal and being kind has never been so poignant as it is today!