A lived experience account - Cerebral Palsy

I have had Cerebral Palsy, a physical disability, since birth. I also started mainstream school aged 5 and completed a full mainstream education up to Degree level. However, I have few non-disabled friends of my own age, mostly because few of my classmates included me socially.

This was not because I didn’t try. I did, but I have always needed physical help and so have always naturally preferred the company of adults.

However, as a person, I actually enjoy meeting and talking to new people. In the right company, I don’t shut up!

My lack of a social life as a schoolchild meant one positive thing- although I’m no A-grade student, I focused on schoolwork and got good grades. I say this because as a result, today, work is one of my favourite topics to talk about!

So I particularly enjoy professional networking. However, I find it difficult to travel to networking events, as my disability means I can’t drive or use public transport independently. I do use a wheelchair for long distances and in large crowds. However, I can’t use an electric wheelchair as I don’t have perception of space so wherever I go, I need company. Either to drive me, travel on a train with me, or walk with me or push me around. Sometimes all of the above.

So, if I wanted to go to an in-person networking event, I would have to pay someone for their time and support. It’s not always easy to either find a person who is available and interested in such events, or to pay them. So, while unlike people with, for example, Autism, I am socially comfortable at professional networking events, I have my own difficulties attending them.

The ability to network online has changed my life. Today, Facebook is my social life. I use it to keep in touch with old friends and family who live abroad.  I also use Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin to contact the wide community of people with all disabilities that the Internet has enabled me to access. I even found The NeurodiverCity Hub through LinkedIn.

I am forever grateful to the creators of social media sites. The existence of social media means I can network whenever I like, socially and professionally, with small talk, fun and laughter but also free of charge, from the safety and accessibility of my desk.