Many years ago my dad began to have trouble hearing and now is 98% deaf. Over the years seeing how hard it has been for him and how much harder it is now being almost completely deaf and how he has been stigmatised and the judgement people put upon him because of his disability. Many people may not call it a disability but to me I have seen how debilitating it has been for him and how for many others in the UK it can be. 

The reason for my dads deafness just like my grandad (may he rest in peace) is a condition called Ménière’s disease. This is a disorder of the inner ear that causes severe dizziness (vertigo), ringing in the ears (tinnitus), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness or congestion in the ear. Ménière’s disease usually affects only one ear but unfortunately it has affected my dad in both ears. Having seen him have fits and dizzy attacks and seeing how much his hearing has affected him as a person but also his day to day life. It has show me that individuals like my dad who are deaf, blind or have other severe disabilities, how strong and amazing they are to live with a disability everyday. Having worked for a disabled charity and seeing how disabled people get stereotyped and abused and looked down upon because they are disabled has given me even more respect for those who live with a disability day in and day out. Working with disabled people who are deaf but also have many major disabilities have show me how special and amazing each and everyone of them are and how they aren't any different.

'Never ignore those who have a disability because they might just inspire you' - To all those people I met, you have inspired me and made me see how people with disabilities are beautiful inside. 

In memory of my Grandad and to my dad who shows strength everyday even though I know it's hard. 

Please sponsor me and help me raise money for a good cause and hopefully I will inspire you like all those special people have done for me. 

Jackie 

xoxo