Welcome to Same Me, Different World (Living with a Disability)
At "A Place to be Seen", I believe in the power of shared experiences to create connection and understanding. After learning to live with new disabilities, my whole life shifted drastically, in ways that have come with immense gratitude and overwhelming grief. I wanted to create a space where the everyday challenges and triumphs of living with a disability can be shared and maybe then we can all have access to the great value of being seen.
Living Differently
Disabilities come in many forms, some visible, some invisible, some are well-informed about and others we are still searching for knowledge, but all are valid. This space is about honouring each journey, amplifying voices that are sometimes misunderstood or not heard, and embracing the dignity and worth of every person, just as they are. I hope through openness we can all continue to learn more about how others see and navigate the world and then find greater understanding and connection with each other.
My Personal Journey
Through personal reflections and experiences, I hope to share my journey of navigating life with disabilities. On the 27/6/2024, I was in the emergency department to try and fight a bad infection that hadn't cleared after several rounds of antibiotics. While waiting, I experienced two syncope episodes and when I woke up from the left, my right side was paralysed and without the ability to verbally communicate through words. After 14 weeks of being hospitalised and tested beyond what I thought I was capable of holding, I somehow came out and have many scars, but also lessons have been learnt. From diagnosis to treatment, from setbacks to breakthroughs, these stories are often met with hardship but also offer hope, understanding, and I truly believe in a sense of community for those navigating similar paths.
My endeavour is to be transparent, honest and share with you the ups and downs this journey has taken me on so far. This is only my experience, and I am aware the spectrum of disabilities is vast. I just know at times I have struggled to one find others who can relate to my experiences and feelings, and two try and share some of the intricacies of the journey with those who are learning and leaning into others who live with these challenges. I hope this space can be beneficial for everyone who is inclined to lean in.
To ones who are caring, supporting or seeking deeper understanding
If you are seeking further understanding of someone navigating life differently with a disability. I am so glad you are here and truly hope you can find some deeper understanding. And there, greater kindness and support may be met as this is one of the most powerful gifts in someone's life journey, especially when they are connecting with you for support. You play a valuable role in our journey and your efforts to connect with us are so appreciated and very significant to us. After all, as humans, we just all want to be seen and met with kindness and compassion.
Join Me on the Journey
Whether you're living with a disability, supporting a loved one, in a helping profession, or simply seeking to learn more, you are welcome here. Please feel free to explore the pages and the experiences I share. Please share your own, and connect with a community that understands and values your experiences. Wherever you stand on this journey, you are a part of this community that engages us all. Everyone is welcome here.