Today, I thoroughly enjoyed the day at Parallel Windsor volunteering for Warren Clark Golfing Dreams and having the opportunity to meet incredible people and participate in a beautiful celebration of inclusivity.
Everything was special, unique and full of meaning. So many things made me reflect on the importance of inclusion, the opportunities that exist in this country, despite the many challenges, and the difference to the world I grew up with my brother in a time when disability was hindered by stigma and ignorance.
Today I saw many children and young people enjoying all the sensory and social stimuli they could get. I saw parents, carers and other professionals sharing the joy of belonging, of being with equals, of being seen and appreciated. Today, it was a little sample of an ideal world where every single person matters; where every pace is respected, every communication form is welcomed and all forms and shapes of being are appreciated and valued.
The sensory walk was the highlight, not only because I got a medal (YAY!), like everyone else who took part in it, but also because it was a calm and welcoming atmosphere, in which each little joy was celebrated and all sounds, textures, colours, and smells were integrated with the shared human experience of just being.
It was an incredible day. I saw a young musician sing her original song and overcome her fear of her tics getting in the way. It was beautiful. Her voice sublime. I also saw a group of school children singing and dancing with an enthusiastic audience, who were also singing and dancing along.
So much to absorb and process. I wish people who are ableist could see all that. More than seeing, experience that.
I am ever so grateful to Warren Clark and his mum Dawn, for supporting my work and my books and inviting me along to moments like this. What a privilege!
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