Education Not Discrimination

'EDUCATION.NOT.DISCRIMINATION' WITH HELP FROM WELLSPECT HEALTHCARE TO 'E.N.D' JUDGEMENT ON HIDDEN DISABILITY

As I've grown up I've become more involved with educating schools/societies on hidden disabilities.It's something I love doing and came about because I decided to 'come out' about my hidden disabilities (lower leg,bladder & bowel problems). It was much easier once I didn't have to pretend and the next step was to start talking to other children and young people-so aged 13yrs I did a talk at my local primary school. It was a fantastic experience and made me realise how accepting children can be if they understand. I did this by telling the story of a puppy that had no friends – this was because it had a few problems – a poorly leg that meant it wasn't very quick and wee wee problems (so similar to me!) So the puppy was all alone whilst it's friends played – the pupils really felt sorry for the puppy and when I said some children also had these issues they understood straight away.

TALKING TO A LOCAL SCHOOL TO EDUCATE ON HIDDEN DISABILITY

I've been lucky to talk to the 'Young Farmers' who were brilliant despite my fears! I talked about living and dealing with my day to day issues and how it's important not to judge 'normal' looking people who use disabled facilities. It was probably my most nerve wracking talk as I was wary how teenagers would respond.

I'm working hard with mum to write a children's book – it will be based on the story I tell to under 10's about the puppy at school.