Deafability Cycling

Being aware of our struggles
Not being able to speak can make situations both socially and in the workplace challenging.
In group scenarios I’ve been blamed for things we did together - as a group. I believe that it was the easy option for when things go wrong. I’ve also been bullied and called names, with the name calling commonly done by a ringleader who found it amusing that I couldn’t hear the abuse. Although I couldn’t hear, I saw friends sniggers or laughing at the abuse, which probably hurt more than being bullied directly. Fortunately many of the people involved have grown up, and I think - I hope, they learned lessons.
Thankfully, mental health awareness has improved, and for those like me who have been made to feel out of place or intentionally hurt, I would advise on speaking out. There’s no place for exclusion or worse at school, at college, or in the workplace. I didn’t speak out at the time and I regret it. If you don’t speak out, things won’t change.
There are also more protections and laws that those with a disability should avail of. In my case, English grammar is not my native language. That’s another disadvantage I had to overcome, along with being deaf. Abusing others like me is like kicking someone when they’re down. I think those creating hurt wouldn’t be so quick to do so if they really knew the harm they can cause.
If you know someone who is more vulnerable, ask if they’re ok. Try to identify a change in their behaviour. Children in particular can be victims to such abuse. They may not want to speak out, but make them aware that there is help out there. They may be suffering from something less drastic, such as feeling socially excluded. Ask them to join in with some of your own activities, help them with their passion or teach them new things. It’s how I started my cycling and triathlon ventures. I was in a bad place, and the friends I made through these groups changed my life. ❤️❤️

Diversity and disability

There is a lot of talk these days about diversity, in careers, in sport, in social life and in business. This is a great development, and in Ireland we see examples everyday with great progress being made.

One area that does need more attention is extending diversity to not be exclusively for people from different backgrounds, religions or race. Many individuals in power or organisations I feel talk about diversity but don’t include those with disabilities. Diversity should include those with a disability. There are various disabilities out there, some lesser known and some that don’t impact employment duties or taking part in social or other activities where there is a push for diversity. Deaf people can work with computers, in finance or marketing and other areas. Blind people can be great in call centers, offices and other areas. When we talk about diversity, we should consider those who come from these backgrounds also.

Personally I think any workplace or organisation that takes pride in its diversity should also aim for improvements for those with disabilities, and include them in any sound bites or announcements when it comes to race, religion or disadvantaged members of the committee. .

Diversity should include disability ☺️

*
*
*










-disability