My visit to Brunel today
confirmed that I cannot wait for University, not for the night life or
eye-candy although that is exciting, but because I am treated like a real
adult. Being a ‘Wheelchair Boy’ has meant that I have got used to being looked
down on both literally and metaphorically. A pat on the head is always a nice
way to be greeted and not directly addressing me is also favourable. Of course,
I must have limited mental capacity and simple concepts such as a Mayor who
wears gold chains have to be explained to me through mime (true story). Like I
have said before, I do not get angry like my family or friends do. I just
accept that ignorant people exist and that is not going to change anytime soon.
That is why University will
be so refreshing. I have met with various people at Brunel, from lecturers to
students, and all have seemed to completely ignore the wheelchair and treat me
like a human being. They speak to me (not my parents) and most importantly
(with my speech problems) listen to me. That is all I want, for others to
forget the wheelchair and treat me like a person from the outset without having
to build up a relationship. So next time you meet a wheelchair boy or girl,
please remember they’re just like you.
Bye for now!
Hi Glen (sorry, I refuse to call you wheelchairboy!)
ReplyDeleteAwesome blog; this medium gives you a bit more space to express yourself than Twitter. I'm looking forward to hearing all your stories from University - definitely the best and worst years of my life combined! Make sure you study harder than I did ;-)
Anyway we still need to go out to celebrate your end of exams, not too many shots or it may get messy!
C u soon when I get back from Dubai, Nick
cheers mate- enjoy dubai. looks lush on the TV :) Drinks when I'm better sounds good. I'll try not to be sick this time.
ReplyDelete