There are around 11.9 million people living with disabilities in the UK right now.

When I was ten my dad was diagnosed with a neurological condition which affects around 100,000 people in the UK. My dad’s symptoms include fatigue and difficulties with walking.

Whilst it was tough for him and our family to go through, we had some damn good times and with this dramatic change, I grew up and learned lessons that many other children might not have.

1. A closer family bond


A disability within the family can bring you together, as it forces you to help each other and that person live a happy life, to the best of their ability, each and every day. This can mean more meal times together, more family trips and spending quality time with each other.



2. The meaning of respect

As you grow up you learn that it is the people who face adversity and battle through pain each and every day who are the real heroes in life. Knowing what people with disabilities go through helps us see past any visible disabilities to see a strong, independent and proud human being.

3. Tolerance

You can quickly gain the ability to tolerate behaviour changes and decisions you don’t necessarily agree with. You should be under no illusion that biting your tongue in any circumstance is easy, but when someone’s day, motivation and life can depend on it then you quickly learn that some things are better left unsaid. Seeing the tougher side of living with a disability certainly does toughen you up and get you ready for adult life.

4. A real sense of purpose

Some people don’t get the opportunities in life to do what they want, when they want. Even though many people live a happy and normal life, their limitations are a reminder that we should make the most out of the life we are given.

5. An odd sense of humour

Those with disabled siblings or parents will know that humour in the family changes. You will often find the person with a disability making fun of themselves or their situation. Outsiders could see this as awkward, but for us it is light-hearted banter. We have even grown to partake in the humour, not to offend, but to offer a humours quip to lighten the mood and too often point out the blooming obvious.

6. The real value of time

With some disabilities there can be limitations, whether it’s not being able to walk or see, thus making the time family and friends give much more precious. I have been able to see first-hand how important the time given to those who need it matters, it is worth more than any gift, phone call or card.

7. Care and humility

Growing up with a sick or ill parent can mean that you needed to administer first aid, give medication or even just be there to help out. Whether that is tying a shoe lace, lifting them into bed of a morning/night or measuring their medication, all these experiences build towards making you a more caring person.



8. Never judging

Some disabilities are evident, but other people have invisible illnesses. Disabilities affect the old and the young, the weak and the strong, the rich and the poor.

Meeting and living with disabled people shows you the true meaning of never ‘judging a book by its cover’. The way someone looks or talks cannot and should never help your pre-build an opinion of them.

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