Disabled and Proud

In this episode of "Disabled and Proud," host Brooke engages in a heartfelt conversation with Anna Taylor, Chairwoman of the RNIB. A charitiy that specialises in helping to improve the lives of the blind and visually impared. Anna shares her journey of living with sight loss and the challenges she has faced throughout her life. From her early diagnosis of ocular cutaneous albinism to her experiences with prejudice and societal expectations, Anna reflects on the importance of resilience and self-acceptance.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Importance of Supportive Parenting : The discussion highlights the crucial role that supportive parents play in the lives of children with disabilities. The emphasis on resilience, self-worth, and the belief that one can lead a fulfilling life despite challenges is vital for personal development.

Societal Attitudes Towards Disability : There has been a noticeable shift in societal attitudes towards disability over the decades. While progress has been made in terms of awareness and accessibility, significant challenges remain, particularly in areas like employment and healthcare.

Accessibility in Healthcare : The conversation underscores the ongoing issues with accessibility in the healthcare system, particularly regarding the provision of information. Inaccessible medical documents and communication can lead to misunderstandings and inadequate care for individuals with disabilities.

BEST MOMENTS

"There's a very marvellous old-fashioned word. I think it's called something like prespare as opposed to despair. And it means there is hope." - Anna

"I always knew it. It was always talked about. And I was encouraged to do everything in life." - Anna

"If you can't fix it, then shuffle it off." - Anna

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media .https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of "Disabled and Proud," Brooke speaks with Nicole Brennan. Together they explore the complexities of motherhood and disability, exploring the internalised ableism that often accompanies these experiences.

The conversation highlights the transformative journey of accepting one's body and identity as a disabled mother, particularly in the face of societal expectations and scrutiny from healthcare professionals. They discuss the creation of the I Am Possible Foundation, aimed at increasing representation and support for individuals with limb differences.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Internalised Ableism and Motherhood : The experience of becoming a mother can amplify feelings of inadequacy, especially for those with disabilities. The pressure to conform to societal standards of motherhood can lead to internalised ableism, where individuals question their worth and abilities as parents.

Transitioning from Charity to Business : The conversation highlights the shift from viewing disability-focused initiatives as charities to recognising them as legitimate businesses. This change promotes sustainability and autonomy in supporting the disabled community without relying solely on donations.

The Importance of Community and Support : Engaging with others who share similar experiences can be empowering. The creation of platforms for sharing stories fosters a sense of community and provides valuable resources for those navigating challenges related to disability and motherhood.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was just picking on me as a person. It wasn't actually my arm, it felt like it was me as a mum. Like, I'm just not good enough."

"I was like, I don't want him to grow up in a world where his mum sees herself the way she does."

"It's so fucking lazy to consistently put disabled businesses under the guise of charity."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Join the I Am Possible Foundation - https://store.iampossiblefoundation.co.uk/

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media .https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Brooke talks to Catrina from People First, an organisation dedicated to supporting adults with learning disabilities and those who are neurodiverse. They discuss the alarming rise in hate crimes against individuals with disabilities and the proactive measures taken through the Safe Bus Streets initiative, which empowers community members with safety strategies and self-advocacy tools.

They also talk about Catrina's personal journey from being a dancer to becoming a leader in the disability advocacy space, highlighting the importance of open conversations about disability, the social model versus the medical model, and the need for genuine engagement with the disabled community. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• A community-driven program was developed in response to an increase in hate crimes against adults with disabilities. It includes safety workshops, self-defence techniques, and resources to help individuals feel secure in their environment.
• Disability is a diverse and complex experience, and individuals within the disabled community may have differing opinions and needs. It's crucial to respect personal preferences and boundaries regarding language and support.
• Activism can take many forms, and love-fuelled activism emphasises compassion and understanding. Engaging in difficult conversations about disability and societal perceptions can lead to meaningful change.
• After a period of illness, rediscovering dance through wheelchair ballet provided a sense of joy and empowerment. This experience highlights the importance of movement and expression in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

BEST MOMENTS

"We've had an increase in hate crime towards adults with disabilities in our area and we knew we had to do something about that."

"It's just treating people on their level and I think we talk about that line when it comes to easy read documents." 

"I think it's really tricky but everybody should be dealt with on an individual basis."

"I would fight for a person's right to call me any name under the sun, but I would also fight for the right to say something right back to them." 

"It's important that we speak for ourselves and not for the community at large." 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves. 

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational. 

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”. 

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

INSTAGRAM! https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en: https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en

Brooke engages in a thought-provoking conversation with her friend, Rachel, a passionate advocate for disability inclusion in the workplace. They discuss Rachel's experience as a Churchill Fellow, where she explored best practices for building inclusive work cultures that prioritise disabled individuals.

They also look at the nuances of reasonable adjustments, the impact of AI on employment, and the importance of recognising the diverse experiences within the disabled community. Rachel shares her personal journey of coming to terms with her disability and emphasises the significance of self-acceptance and pride in one's identity. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Disability is not a monolith; it encompasses a wide range of experiences and identities. Each individual's relationship with their disability can vary significantly, and this complexity must be acknowledged in discussions about workplace inclusivity.
• Many reasonable adjustments in the workplace are free and can significantly enhance the work experience for disabled individuals. Employers should be encouraged to understand and implement these adjustments, which can include simple changes like altering communication styles or workspace arrangements.
• Attitudes towards disability vary globally, influenced by cultural, social, and legislative contexts. Understanding these differences is crucial for developing effective strategies for inclusion in diverse workplaces.
• The rise of AI presents both opportunities and challenges for disabled individuals in the workplace. While AI can facilitate reasonable adjustments and improve accessibility, there are concerns about biases in AI systems and the potential for job displacement, particularly within the disabled community.
• Individuals with disabilities should be empowered to educate themselves about their rights and the reasonable adjustments available to them. This knowledge can help them advocate for their needs in the workplace and contribute to a more inclusive work environment.

BEST MOMENTS

"AI is going to take our jobs, especially I think within the disabled community where we are as a community so far behind in terms of employment." 

"95% of reasonable adjustments are completely free." 

"Disability for many people equals inability." 

"I think it's important to recognise where legislation and attitudes are working and what organisations are leading to them working."

"I love my community. I love my friends. For me, the whole disability pride conversation is a complete self-acceptance and love for who I am as a disabled woman."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves. 

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational. 

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”. 

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

INSTAGRAM! https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en: https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en

Brooke talks to film director Rick Stanton about his film "Spectrum," which he wrote and directed. The film offers a unique portrayal of autism through the lens of his brother, who plays the lead character.

Rick discusses the creative process behind the film, including the decision to cast authentically and the artistic choices that contribute to its raw, realistic feel. He emphasises the importance of showcasing the everyday struggles faced by individuals with disabilities, moving away from the often cutesy representations seen in mainstream media.

The episode also looks into the film's themes of worth and opportunity, as well as the impact of genuine storytelling on audiences. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• "Spectrum" aims to portray the life of an adult with autism authentically, challenging the common, often cutesy or childlike depictions seen in media. The lead character is played by the director's brother, who has autism, to ensure a genuine representation.
• The film is shot in black and white and in a 4:3 aspect ratio to reflect the lead character's limited worldview. This artistic choice enhances the viewer's connection to the character's experiences and emotions.
• The narrative is inspired by real-life events, including a traumatic incident the director experienced. This personal connection adds depth and authenticity to the story, allowing for a more relatable exploration of autism.
• The film features authentically cast actors with disabilities, which contributes to the film's realism. The casting process involved leveraging the strengths of the actors, allowing for natural performances that resonate with the audience.
• The film emphasises the worth of individuals with disabilities and critiques societal dismissiveness. It aims to inspire viewers to reflect on their perceptions and interactions with people on the autism spectrum, encouraging a more empathetic understanding of their experiences.

BEST MOMENTS

"In the film, the film basically delves into what life is like for an adult with autism." 

"We wanted to depict how my brother's life actually is, where he's just like everybody else and has the same emotional range and troubles." 

"Sometimes people with disabilities can just be sort of disregarded before they've even had a chance." 

"On paper, it's extremely boring... but that's the scene that seems to resonate the most with the autistic community." 

"It was important to us to never sort of bang on about disability."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves. 

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational. 

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”. 

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

INSTAGRAM! https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en: https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en

In this episode of "Disabled and Proud," Brooke talks with Scott Whitney in a thought-provoking discussion about the recent reforms to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and universal credit in the UK. He highlights the misconceptions surrounding disability benefits, particularly the unfounded belief in widespread fraud, and emphasises the importance of PIP as a means to maintain independence rather than merely an out-of-work benefit. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by disabled individuals in navigating the assessment process, the potential dangers of tightening benefit structures, and the urgent need for businesses to adapt their hiring practices to be more inclusive. Scott also shares insights from his own journey as a disabled person and discusses the initiatives of his organisation, All4Inclusion, which aims to reduce loneliness within the disability community by fostering safe spaces for open conversations. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that being proud of one's disability should translate into action and advocacy for change.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

BEST MOMENTS

1. "The only way we're going to get disabled people into work is by training, supporting businesses to go, well, actually, this is how we need to interview people." - Scott
2. "PIP isn't an out-of-work benefit; it's something that people use to allow them to go to work." - Scott
3. "The ultimate danger is that people die... it would be because people... wouldn't be able to eat, my diet would be worse." - Scott
4. "Hundreds of thousands more women than men will end up going into poverty and out of the workforce." - Interviewer
5. "If we're proud, what are we doing about it? It's time... to do actions, not words." - Scott

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

INSTAGRAM! https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en: https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en

Brooke is joined by special guest, Jordan Jarrett-Bryant, to discuss the exhilarating yet exhausting experience of covering live events, the challenges of staying updated in a fast-paced environment, and the importance of storytelling in sports journalism.

Together they focus on the evolving landscape of media, highlighting how digital platforms have transformed audience engagement and representation in broadcasting. Jordan shares his most memorable moments from the Paralympics, including exclusive interviews and inspiring athlete stories, while also addressing the pressing issues of accessibility and disability rights in Paris. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• There has been a significant shift from traditional television to digital platforms, with audiences increasingly favouring services like Netflix, YouTube, and Apple TV. This change is driven by the demand for diverse content and the ability to watch what they want, when they want.
• The recent Paralympics highlighted both the excitement of sports and the ongoing challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly regarding accessibility in host cities like Paris. Despite the celebration of athletic achievements, there are serious concerns about the lack of infrastructure for disabled people.
• Broadcasting during the Paralympics requires extensive preparation, but the ability to adapt to unexpected developments is crucial. Journalists must be ready to pivot quickly based on real-time events and emerging stories.
• The rise of digital media has democratised content creation, allowing individuals to share their stories without needing traditional media gatekeepers. However, this has also led to an influx of content that may lack substance, highlighting the need for quality and expertise in media production.

BEST MOMENTS

"TV has had to and it's TV's biggest fault, in my opinion. They were so complacent for so long and their refusal to diversify... has meant now that they've been overtaken by digital." 

"For me, it's the perfect kind of smudge of sports, disability and media."

"I think the biggest difference I've seen is digital and what digital has allowed people to do is to watch what they want from who they want, when they want, how they want."

"The audience is saying, we want more women. We want more black people. We want more disabled people... If you don't give it to us, that's fine. We'll go Netflix. We'll go YouTube." 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves. 

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational. 

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”. 

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

INSTAGRAM! https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en: https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en

Brooke meets special guests Liselle Terrett and Heather Johnson to engage in a vibrant discussion about their groundbreaking project, "Not F**king Sorry" a provocative cabaret theatre piece that challenges societal norms surrounding disability and queerness.

They explore the fluidity of identity, the importance of creating safe spaces for marginalised voices, and the collaborative process of developing the show with learning-disabled and neurodivergent actors. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Everyone may experience disability at some point in their lives. This intersectionality is central to the themes explored in the project.
• The creation of the performance "Not Fucking Sorry" is a collaborative effort involving learning disabled and neurodivergent actors. The process includes devising, improvisation, and the incorporation of the actors' personal experiences and voices into the narrative.
• The show aims to confront and challenge societal norms surrounding disability and sexuality. It seeks to address the marginalisation of disabled individuals and the misconceptions surrounding their sexual agency, using humour and provocative content to engage the audience.
• Establishing a safe and respectful environment in the rehearsal room is crucial for the creative process. This includes clear communication, support for mental health, and a focus on care, allowing actors to express themselves freely and authentically.

BEST MOMENTS

"Disability is sexy. Queer is sexy. It's fluid. It's movable. We'll all be disabled at some point." 

"You're there to make sure that the actors can do their best jobs." 

"We never get the chance to go out to the pub, to the club. So let's make a show that we create that." 

"The political message is more urgent... the world is... lacking in pathos or nuance." 

"You don't know the cracks and the scars that you have given us, that we carry." 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

Not F**king Sorry - https://accessallareasproductions.org/production/not-fkin-sorry/

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves. 

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational. 

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”. 

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

INSTAGRAM! https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en: https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en

Brooke holds an empowering conversation with Tiffany Yu, author of the "Anti-Ableism Manifesto" exploring the evolving language around disability, the personal journeys of disabled individuals, and the importance of community and representation.

Tiffany shares her experiences of navigating life with both apparent and non-apparent disabilities, reflecting on her childhood before and after her accident. They also delve into the significance of access intimacy, the challenges of identifying as disabled, and the systemic issues surrounding ableism. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The experiences of disabled individuals vary widely, influenced by factors such as whether they were born with a disability or acquired it later in life. This diversity emphasises that the disabled community is not a monolith and that each person's relationship with their disability is unique.

• Language surrounding disability is evolving, and it's important to use terms that accurately reflect individuals' experiences. For example, "non-apparent" disabilities are preferred over "hidden" or "invisible" to avoid implying that individuals are trying to hide their disabilities.

• The concept of access intimacy refers to the comfort and understanding that comes from being in spaces designed with disabled individuals in mind. This fosters a sense of belonging and allows for more authentic interactions without the need for individuals to justify their access needs.

• The book "Anti-Ableism Manifesto" is structured around the framework of "Me, We, Us," which encourages individuals to first reflect on their own beliefs about disability (Me), then engage with their community (We), and finally advocate for broader societal change (Us). This approach emphasises the importance of both personal and collective action in combating ableism.

BEST MOMENTS

"I identify as having both apparent and non-apparent disabilities." 

"I think we are on the cusp of a cultural shift around disability." 

"Ableism is a system of oppression that devalues someone based on the way their body and or mind works."

"Just because you've met one disabled person doesn't mean that you've met the entire disabled community." 

"I wanted the book to read as though a friend was talking to you." 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

Tiffany Yu - https://www.tiffanyyu.com/book

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves. 

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational. 

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”. 

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

INSTAGRAM! https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en: https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en

Brooke welcomes Aaron Fowler, a visually impaired rugby player and physio, for an engaging conversation about his journey in the world of VI rugby. Aaron shares his experiences with retinitis pigmentosa, discussing the challenges of growing up with sight loss and the importance of community support. The episode delves into the unique adaptations of visually impaired rugby, including the use of an audible ball and modified rules, as well as the camaraderie and inclusivity within the sport. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• VI rugby, or visually impaired rugby, is played with adaptations such as a ball that makes noise and a touch-based tackling system. The game is played seven-a-side, with two halves of 10 minutes each, and includes a classification system for players based on their level of visual impairment.

• Aaron was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at the age of five. His journey included learning to use a white cane at 17 and later getting a guide dog, which significantly impacted his independence and mobility.

• The rugby community is described as inclusive and supportive, with Aaron emphasising the importance of camaraderie among players. He also highlighted the need for better education and awareness about disabilities in society.

• Participation in visually impaired sports often requires significant travel and personal funding, as there is limited financial support available. Teams often rely on fundraising efforts to cover travel costs for competitions.

• VI rugby is expanding internationally, with teams in several countries including England, Japan, and Ireland. Upcoming tournaments, such as the one in November, aim to showcase the sport and attract more players and spectators, with hopes of increasing participation, especially among women.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think when you have a disability, you either go one of two ways. Either you get really frustrated and bitter about things, or you just kind of have to accept that this is how the world currently is." 

"I was about 12 when my parents told me the extent to which my sight loss could develop into one day. It was a lot to process." 

"I think there's still a lot to be done to educate society about people with various disabilities." 

"This will be the first time we've had an international tournament in England, and it will be a great opportunity for us to showcase our sport." 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878

HOST BIO

Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves. 

The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational. 

Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”. 

As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!

INSTAGRAM! https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en: https://www.instagram.com/disabledandproudpodcast/?hl=en