As we approach the Christmas season, let’s not forget the financial challenges and lack of support funding that many disabled individuals in our society face. This is when our awareness and financial support can make a significant difference. Your contribution, no matter how small, can go a long way, and together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
As we all anticipate the joyous Christmas season, it’s crucial to remember those who may not share in our excitement. For seniors with mobility difficulties or disabilities, the season can be a time of isolation, worsened by financial struggles. Despite these challenges, their resilience shines through. Their superannuation remains slightly increasing, which does not help with the rise in inflation, making their situation even more challenging.
As we gather around the table for a meal, let’s remember that there may be a D/deaf family member or another person with disabilities among us. It’s not just a matter of remembering, but it’s our responsibility to ensure that no one feels left out, especially during the festive season. Let’s make our celebrations truly inclusive, and in doing so, we’ll experience the joy of bringing everyone into the fold.
As for myself, I have a new disability recently, and I’m learning how to adapt. I have glaucoma in both eyes, and one eye also has a cataract. Yes, it’s difficult, and I often get frustrated when I try to adapt. I’m sharing this to show that even with personal challenges, we can still strive for inclusivity and support for all. I do not have much money to invest in new equipment as the Government cut back Health and Disability Funding this year. I am a deaf with disabilities senior person, not just a deaf senior person.
Last Tuesday, I visited a senior lady with a pacemaker living alone. At the same time, her neighbour is a Deaf Somalian with disabilities lady on my last day of visiting/working before the annual leave. I took my time to collect my cut roses and lavenders as a bouquet from my large property, which had a vast garden of flowers, trees, and fruit/vegetables for this senior lady, as I knew she would have no one visiting her on Christmas Day. Carole is her name; she was delighted to see me as we have built a trusting relationship and friendship through her hard times.
Why not consider learning sign language or including people with disabilities in your celebrations? By doing so, you’ll be actively contributing to a more inclusive society. Let’s make this a genuinely inclusive Joy Season Day!
Life in Eureka 