It’s 1 a.m. and I can’t sleep. I’m thinking about my next blog. I still feel awkward talking about disability. I still feel like nobody takes me seriously. Maybe I should stop…

I visit the supermarket the next day. The disabled spaces are all full of cars without permits.

Then, insomnia again. I’m remembering the social worker who checked my knickers in primary school and said, ‘Well, at least she hasn’t wet herself.’ They were my favourite rainbow pair. I’m remembering the PE teacher who made me walk round the Science block for my lesson. I’m remembering the IVF nurse who had me sign a piece of paper promising my disability could not be inherited.

Did you know 60% of those who died from Covid were disabled? That over 60% of disabled women report being unable to access a smear test? That 90% of foetuses with Downs Syndrome are aborted? *

None of this is helping me sleep!

Life is pretty straightforward for me if I ignore patronising comments and access issues. Yet, as a disabled person in society I feel ignored and unwanted, whilst as a cancer patient I’m celebrated as a brave warrior. For now, I need to sleep…..

* https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/articles/coronaviruscovid19relateddeathsbydisabilitystatusenglandandwales/24januaryto20november2020

* https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/women/cervical-screening-smear-test-women-physical-disability-stigma-equipment-a9045051.html

* https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-51658631

• WordPress
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram