Support must be fit for purpose – begin by listening

SueLearning Disability, Living life, Thinking Differently1 Comment

Woman with brown hair with Down's syndrome being looked at by woman with blonde hair. Both smiling. Text says My support is everything. Jen Blackwell and Donna Wheeldon

In all parts of our lives we find systems which are meant to be helpful. Support to navigate a certain aspect or point in time. Everyone accepts that ‘the system’ is broken.  But until we listen intelligently to individuals, people with learning disabilities will continue to remain invisible.  If we value everybody, truly believe in equity and equality of opportunity, … Read More

Thank you for being part of extraordinary lives

SueArt of the Possible, Awards, Learning Disability, Living life, Thinking Differently1 Comment

Donna Wheeldon and Jen Blackwell standing next to each other on stairs in graduation robes before Jen's honorary degree graduation July 2024

We have so much to give thanks for. So many people over the years have said “yes”, or “I don’t know but have you tried…” and supported our ambition that Jen born with Down’s syndrome, and others like her to be treated like any other human being – having the right support and opportunities to pursue their dreams and follow … Read More

Do you see me

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The business of changing lives

For Learning Disability Awareness Week 2024 this question, “Do you see me?” posed by Mencap is so deep and so profound, whilst simultaneously distressing, disappointing, and painful that it even merits consideration. It is a sad travesty of the 21st century, an inditement of the way society has stood idly by as people who happen to be learning disabled or … Read More

We are all different

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Donna Jen Sophie ready for Buckingham Palace Garden Party May 24

Just a few days ago Malcolm and I were camping with our trusty ‘big’ car tent (top left) by ourselves as it turned out, soaking up the glorious view over Lostwithiel in Devon. Whilst Jen, was loving living in style for a couple of days at the fancy Rubens Hotel, Buckingham Palace Road. She loves the whole experience of being … Read More

Blowing in the wind

SueLiving lifeLeave a Comment

Elizabeth's cows

There are times in life you feel in control, and others where you feel powerless, inconsequential, insignificant, incapable. My nature is to be positive, driven, energetic, but just now I’m riding the roller coaster of grief after my mum passed away a few weeks ago. It’s difficult to focus. You think you’re on top of it, putting on your ‘can … Read More

Express Day 24 review

SueLearning Disability, Living life, Opportunity, Thinking DifferentlyLeave a Comment

Dancers with and without learning disabilities Express Day 24

Dodging the cloud bursts we arrived at Blackburn Empire Theatre excited to watch Express 24, the annual show of the multi-faceted talented dance charity, DanceSyndrome. The Sunken Forest was an opportunity to put aside the cares of the world, allow yourself to be enveloped by finely wrought, enthralling, enchanting spell binding ballet.  The dance was absorbing as dancers shared their … Read More