#The Longest Day
Today is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For most people, it’s a chance to soak up some extra sunshine and celebrate the arrival of summer. But for me, it’s a reminder of how little freedom and independence I really have. I’ve always loved watching the sun.
There’s something magical about that big, bright orb crossing the sky, on the solstice, I can bask in its warmth from sunrise to sunset – over 16 hours of glorious daylight! I’ve dreamed of spending the whole day at Sedgley Beacon, one of the highest points around, just drinking in those rays. But my learning disability makes it nearly impossible.
I live alone in supported housing in West Bromwich , but I don’t have full-time staff to assist me. My support worker only comes for a few hours each day to help with basic tasks like cooking, cleaning, and groceries. Anything extra, like a daylong outing, is out of the question without paying hefty fees for additional care. Even if I could afford it, there’s another hurdle – transportation. I don’t drive, and my mobility isn’t great, so I rely on public buses. But in this area, they stop running at 9pm. If I went to Sedgley Beacon, I’d have no way to get home after dark. I’d be stranded until morning or pay £30 plus for a taxi.
So my longest day will be spent just like any other – inside these four walls, with the sunlight filtering through my windows. I’ll try to appreciate it as best I can. But it’s hard not to feel frustrated and resentful that this simple pleasure is so difficult for me to fully enjoy.
For people without disabilities, the summer solstice is just a day. For me, it’s a harsh reminder that my life is full of limitations and barriers. Lack of adequate support, inaccessible transportation, extra costs – these prevent me from having the independence and freedom that others take for granted. I know I’m not alone either.
There are thousands of people with learning disabilities across the UK facing these same struggles every single day. We just want to live our lives and pursue our interests like anyone else. But the world wasn’t built for us, during Learning Disability Week I want my lived experience to be heard and actioned upon by you all. So as you celebrate the first day of summer, maybe spare a thought for those of us on the margins. We’re not asking for pity – just understanding, empathy and a commitment to breaking down the obstacles that keep us from experiencing life to the full.
Cor you hear me? Cor you see me is the motto for this years Learning Disability Week, I just wanted to make sure I was heard. Sean wrote down my story for me, I do not want my name to be shared,
Would you like your lived experience put into a blog? Just message me and we can make it happen.
seanshoutout@gmail.com
Leave a Reply