Disabled and Proud

Brooke welcomes special guest, Ruth Rathblott to discuss the concept of "unhiding." Ruth shares her personal experiences of living with a limb difference and the challenges she faced in accepting and embracing her disability. They discuss the different perspectives within the disability community regarding terminology and identity, highlighting the importance of individual experiences and the need for open dialogue.

Ruth also reflects on her childhood, where she initially didn't see herself as different until a pivotal moment in high school. They delve into the impact of societal beauty standards on individuals with disabilities and the lack of representation in media. The conversation explores the journey of unhiding, which involves acknowledging, finding support, building a community, and ultimately sharing one's experiences to help others. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Acknowledging and accepting one's disability or difference is an important step towards self-acceptance and building deeper connections with others.
• Finding a trusted person to share one's experiences with can provide support and help in the journey of unhiding.
• Building a community of individuals with shared experiences can create a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of loneliness.
• Sharing one's experiences and story can help others who may be going through similar struggles and create a sense of connection and understanding.
• Representation and visibility of diverse experiences, including disability, in media and society is crucial for breaking down stereotypes and promoting acceptance and inclusion.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think my hand has been my greatest struggle and it's my greatest gift because it also allows me to connect with people." 

"I think hiding, for me, is the problem. And it affects us in so many ways. And then unhiding becomes the bridge to connection, to self-acceptance, to leadership." 

"I think sometimes with disability, we don't allow for the questions... So why not be able to ask a question to me if you're wanting to build a relationship with me?" 

"I really welcome your prayers. They're not gonna do anything for the growth of this if that's what you're praying for, but I accept all prayers because there are things in my life that I wanna grow." 

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 engages in a candid conversation with Paul Swain, who acquired a disability later in life. Paul shares his experience of losing an arm and his unique perspective on accepting his disability.

Paul reflects on the societal acceptance of disability and the attention-seeking behaviour that some individuals exhibit, before delving into the challenges of adapting to life with a disability, from relearning everyday tasks to dealing with phantom pain. The conversation touches on the resilience and acceptance that comes with being disabled, as well as the societal curiosity and misconceptions surrounding disability.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Paul struggles with accepting the loss of his arm, but has learned to embrace the honesty, instead of feeling forced to simply accept it.

Disability is definitely an individual thing, and each person must go through it and accept it in their own way

Paul feels that sometimes, people use their disability to curry favour or influence behaviour. 

Accepting our disability is something we have to come to on our own. We should not simply feel as though we have to be happy and proud about our circumstances because society expects us to

BEST MOMENTS

"I don't really particularly accept the loss of my arm... I always cover it up, it's always covered up." 

"I try not to let it play a part in my life and just carry on... but everybody relates to their disability incredibly individually."

"I think sometimes people believe that the acceptance of disability is so much better now than it ever was... I think there's also an element of people believe they should say that they accept disability and so that's what they do." 

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, Saadiya Yusuf, who shares her experience of living with sickle cell anaemia, a genetic blood disorder. Saadiya explains the challenges of describing the condition to others and the importance of maintaining medical autonomy, as well as discussing its impact on red blood cells, oxygen levels, and the occurrence of painful episodes known as sickle cell crisis.

Saadiya also addresses the issue of fatigue and the impact of sickle cell on childhood and teenage years, reflecting on the process of understanding and accepting her condition, as well as the resilience she has developed. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells.
• People with sickle cell anaemia experience severe bouts of pain called sickle cell crisis, which can last from a day to a month.
• Sickle cell trait is when a person carries one copy of the sickle cell gene but does not have any symptoms.
• Resilience is a key trait for individuals with sickle cell anaemia, as they often have to navigate challenges and manage their condition.
• It is important to prioritise self-care and not feel guilty about taking time for rest and managing one's health.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think there is a misconception I think with doctors and kind of like going to the hospital that it's just a black disease or just like a black condition and I understand where that comes from but I think it can be quite dangerous to kind of categorise a condition that way because medical racism plays a part in everything." 

"I definitely say to kind of or thinking about entering the corporate world to look for companies and organisations that really value inclusion and have kind of like processes in place to help people to help their staff with disabilities." 

"I think it's definitely a journey, especially if you've had a disability all your life, but society and the way society is set up will make you feel like you shouldn't be proud of it." 

"I understand the desperation of wanting like, oh, there must be something, you know. And I think a lot of those so-called doctors kind of pray on that desperation." 

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, Peter, to discuss his experience living with cerebral palsy and profound hearing loss.

Peter shares his childhood experiences, including attending a preschool for disabled children and being placed in a deaf unit at school. He talks about his educational journey, from primary school to university, and how he navigated exams and coursework as a disabled student.

Peter also opens up about his passion for the Paralympic sport of Boccia and his journey as an athlete and coach. The conversation delves into the challenges of classification in Paralympic sports and the impact it had on Peter's athletic career. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Peter had a positive educational experience, attending a preschool for disabled children and later mainstream schools with accommodations for his hearing impairment.
• Peter's first language is British Sign Language (BSL), but he primarily communicates through speaking due to his clear speech abilities.
• Peter has been involved in the sport of boccia, a Paralympic sport similar to bowls, and has competed nationally and internationally.
• Peter emphasises the importance of not rushing into decisions, taking time to evaluate and consider options, and maintaining a positive attitude. He also highlights the need for open conversations about mental health and the importance of body language in communication.
• BEST MOMENTS

"I was born three months premature. I was about to say that I blame my parents actually for that. But I can't actually blame them for that." 

"Disabled children particularly like in childhood you have a very different childhood." 

"I was put in reception year 1 and year 2 in a deaf unit... But in those early years, it was very much the deaf part of me being the focal point." 

"I was fairly lucky in terms of that... I was very, very lucky and no one ever chose me, different, especially in a wheelchair as well." 

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 talks to Laura from Casual Ableism, a popular Instagram account that raises awareness about ableism through humour and truthfulness.

Laura talks about her personal journey with disability, from being diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at a young age to navigating the challenges of school and societal perceptions. She also shares their experiences of embracing her disability and finding empowerment through understanding and acceptance. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Casual Ableism is a social media platform that raises awareness about ableism and provides a community for individuals with disabilities.
• Disability is not a one-size-fits-all experience, and it is important to recognise and respect the unique experiences and perspectives of each individual.
• It is okay to feel frustrated or overwhelmed by the challenges of disability, and it is important to give yourself permission to feel and process those emotions.
• Finding a supportive community of friends and allies who accept and understand you for who you are is crucial for navigating the challenges of disability.
• Adapting and finding solutions that work for you is key in overcoming barriers and moving forward in life with a disability.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think sometimes we have to take a bit of tragedy with humour." 

"I'm definitely proud to say I'm disabled and have a physical disability." 

"It's progressive. And for a lot of people, it can be stable for lots of years and then it can progress or it can develop later on in life." 

"It's okay to have those moments where you don't feel proud to be disabled, or you don't feel like it's kind of, oh, it's fine, you know, I'll just get on with it." 

"Disability is not one size fits all. It's so individual for every single person." 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 welcomes Jamie for a candid and heartfelt conversation about their experiences with disability. They discuss how they refer to their disabilities, including ocular albinism, ADHD, and autism, and the journey of self-identification.

Jamie opens up about their challenging childhood, navigating mainstream education, and the impact of internalised ableism. They also share their struggles with employment, the importance of finding supportive allies, and the transformative power of using their voice to advocate for disability inclusion. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Jamie's experience of internalised ableism highlights the impact of societal attitudes and stereotypes on disabled individuals. It is important to challenge these beliefs and advocate for self-acceptance and empowerment.
• The support and belief of just one person can make a significant difference in a disabled person's life. Having someone who listens, understands, and supports can help build confidence and resilience.
• Finding and using your voice is crucial. Disabled individuals should feel empowered to speak up about their needs, experiences, and emotions. It is important to advocate for oneself and seek support when needed.
• The journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance is ongoing. Obtaining a diagnosis can provide validation and understanding, but it is also a continuous process of learning and unlearning. It is essential to seek resources, connect with others, and continue to explore and understand one's own neurodivergent identity.
• Content creation and sharing lived experiences can have a profound impact on others. By creating accessible content and sharing personal stories, disabled individuals can inspire, educate, and connect with others who may be going through similar experiences. It is a powerful way to challenge ableism and promote inclusivity.

BEST MOMENTS

"Why is the issue on how we want to self-identify when the real issue is the systemic ableism, the inaccessibility, and the fact that we are treated the mess on but you want to talk about my right to identify." 

"My career is now built on being a disability accessibility lead."

"I think it's have the confidence to say stop let me talk this is how I actually feel because a lot of decisions that was made for me in my life"

"I think it's being able to talk about emotions whether you're male, female, trans, non-binary, being able to have that conversation is such a such an important thing." 

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 Dr. Hannah, a disabled and neurodivergent doctor, who shares her experiences with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and ADHD.

She discusses the challenges she faced in getting diagnosed with EDS and the lack of awareness and funding for the condition. Dr. Hannah also talks about her journey to getting diagnosed with ADHD and the impact it has had on her career in medicine. She highlights the need for greater inclusion and representation of disabled individuals in the medical field and society as a whole. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Dr. Hannah emphasises the importance of having a variety of acronyms to describe her disabilities, such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and ADHD. She proudly identifies as disabled and embraces the diversity of her disabilities.

The journey to diagnosis for EDS was challenging for Dr. Hannah, as the symptoms were often dismissed or attributed to being a woman. She was fortunate to receive a diagnosis while in medical school, but recognises the struggles that many others face in obtaining a diagnosis and accessing support.

Dr. Hannah faced initial challenges in navigating the medical field as a wheelchair user, but has found ways to adapt and excel in her profession.

Dr. Hannah encourages the integration of disability perspectives into broader conversations, rather than segregating disability as a separate topic. She believes that disabled individuals should be included in all discussions and have their experiences valued.

BEST MOMENTS

"I diagnosed myself and kind of turned up at the cerebrotology appointment going, well, I think I have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type three. And she's like, yeah, yeah, you definitely do. crack on." 

"I think it's about kind of going, life is awful, life can be bad, but how do we process that and take it apart and not being scared to do so, or at least making sure you have the support to do so as you go." 

"I think it's really important that we claim our soft power... It's about kind of accepting all of that and going here is what I think, what do you think?"

"I think having the disabled community in my life has radically changed it in all the best way possible... because there are certain things that I used to think I was like, oh, I don't think that's quite normal or quite right."

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 welcomes back guest Charlie Holford for a catch-up conversation. Charles shares his journey as a below-knee amputee, discussing the challenges he faced after his injury and the years of chronic pain he endured. He opens up about the emotional toll it took on him and how it changed his perspective on his disability.

Charles then shares the transformative impact of his amputation surgery, which led him to open his own CrossFit gym and compete in the Invictus Games. He also discusses the changes in the adaptive arena of CrossFit and his passion for working with both adaptive and non-disabled individuals. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Charles's life has undergone significant changes since their amputation, including opening their own CrossFit gym and competing in the Invictus Games.
• Charles's experience with the adaptive community in CrossFit has led them to want to work with and support others in the adaptive community.
• It's vital to take it easy and allow the body to heal after amputation before pushing oneself to achieve goals.
• Charles has developed a balance between their driven, ambitious side and a newfound empathy and ability to relax and take care of themselves.

BEST MOMENTS

"I became an amputee because, do you want to know the full story?" - Interviewee (Charles)

"I got injured in 2012 in the army... I was told to carry on." - Interviewee (Charles)

"He said, there's nothing wrong with the bone. He's lying about his pain. I would discharge him." - Interviewee (Charles)

"I've had my leg off, and I'm not in pain anymore. And I can do stuff. And I've just been growing the last three years." - Interviewee (Charles)

"WheelWod are going to take 10 above knee amputees, 10 below knee amputees, and 10 people with two full legs that have issues with those legs." - Interviewee (Charles)

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 talks to Chamiah Dewey, who is making waves in the fashion industry by creating inclusive clothing for people with disabilities. Chamiah shares her personal connection to disability, growing up with neurodivergent siblings and being an ally to the disabled community. She discusses her journey into fashion and how she founded her clothing brand, Dewey, which specialises in clothing for individuals under five feet tall.

Chamiah talks about the challenges she faced in developing a size chart that caters to the unique needs of her customers and the importance of representation in the fashion industry. She also shares her experience showcasing her designs at London Fashion Week and the emotional impact it had on both her and her models. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Dewey aims to provide fashionable and well-fitting clothing for people under five feet tall, specifically targeting the short stature community.
• Chamiah's inspiration for starting Dewey came from her encounter with a young person with dwarfism, which sparked her curiosity and led her to realise the lack of clothing options for people with short stature.
• There is limited information and expertise available on short stature conditions. However, Chamiah persevered and conducted her own research to develop a size chart and create clothing that fits the unique proportions of short stature individuals.
• Dewey's participation in London Fashion Week was a significant milestone for the brand, as it showcased a bridal collection specifically designed for short stature individuals. The positive reception from the audience and the emotional impact it had on the models highlighted the importance of representation and inclusivity in the fashion industry.

BEST MOMENTS

"I always love getting the chance to chat about what I do and to meet new people and spread awareness of things that lots of people don't consider." 

"I got into this really through meeting a young person who had dwarfism and just learning lots and lots about dwarfism as a condition and then just getting really curious." 

"I think listening has been one of the most invaluable pieces. It's just immersing yourself so fully in the community, which I completely am." 

"I think seeing people be so shocked that something fit and that they didn't have to roll the arms up was a really humbling experience." 

"I want Dewey to be the place that you think of when you're short stature. We're providing clothing that looks like clothing from anywhere else, it's just smaller." - Interviewee

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 talks to the amazing Sami Dar about his experiences growing up with cerebral palsy, navigating school and social norms. Sami shares hisjourney of resilience and adaptability, from attending a school within a hospital during his recovery to excelling in university and pursuing a career in finance.

Sami also talks about the creation of 10,000 Disabled Interns, a program that matches disabled students with internships, providing valuable opportunities and challenging the notion that disabled individuals lack ambition. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Being proud of your disability and embracing it can lead to greater self-confidence and a more fulfilling life.
• Ambition and drive: Disabled individuals can be just as ambitious and driven as anyone else. Having goals and aspirations can provide meaning and purpose in life.
• Disability often requires adaptability and problem-solving skills. Being adaptable can help navigate challenges and overcome barriers.
• 10,000 Disabled Interns is a valuable resource that matches disabled students with internships, addressing the lack of accessibility and time constraints that often hinder disabled individuals from pursuing internships.
• Teenage years can be challenging: Adolescence can be a difficult time for anyone, and being a disabled teenager adds an extra layer of complexity. However, staying true to oneself and riding the wave can lead to personal growth and a brighter future.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think if you're not proud or you're ashamed of that, or you shy away from that, then you're only making life more difficult for yourself."

"There's no need for you to conform to narrow expectations." 

"I think it's really wonderful that you're able to provide that service and make sure that disabled people are still thought about when it comes to internships." 

"I think a lot of people don't realise that disabled people can also be ambitious and that disability and ambition can coexist." 

"I think if you're willing to focus on the positives and be...ignore it and just live your life how you would have done any other way, then you're able to commit to it and achieve so much." 

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