Disabilities

I totally could be wrong, but I do not think Glen McGrath would have set up the McGrath Foundation if his wife had not died of breast cancer.
It never ceases to amaze me how what people experience is the way they gravitate.  It happened to me.  I had the brain tumour which to get to required cutting an artery, which gave me the stroke.  Now I see disabled people everywhere.
I really think disabled is an unfair label.  So often people have abilities which are unseen without exploring.  I watched a show on the ABC about “disabled” people seeking a job.  It was an eye opener for me.  One guy could hardly talk, yet he had a really good brain.  The tendency was to overlook him.  Those who did, missed out.  He was determined.  He employed a device that he entered stuff into, and it spoke for him.  He got a job.  Someone gave him a chance.  He still has the job.  Being the public face of the company was probably not ideal for him (which he was not), but there are many other behind the scenes tasks required to keep the company wheels turning.
I really felt for someone else who I think must have been aspergers (I missed the start of the show).  He was obsessed with trains.  He knew every Sydney route, and used to use a mic to give a commentary as trains ran on lines on his computer.  No one employed him.  Not even the railway which was advertising a job which he seemed made for.  His attitude was terrific, and he was the closest to everyday people as anyone on the show.
I am very big on not what I can’t do, but what I can.  As I have indicated before, that is enough to last me more than a lifetime.
It may seem harsh, but I would almost put the elderly in the “disabled” category.  They have reached the perceived use by date. Personally, I believe it is my condition that has the use by date.  The common theme seems to be the diminishing of their world.  Options that were once there, are there no longer.  Either something else is done, or creative ways are found to combat the smaller world.  Genuine sickness seems to be a showstopper though.  Not “man” flu, but stuff that stops us in our tracks despite ourselves.
As I say, I now see disabled people everywhere.  It is like rugby league jerseys.  A lot of people wear them.  To me the “disabled” combat things on a few levels.  Not only do they need to battle their condition, but they also need to fight prejudice.  To me, they represent an under-utilized resource.
I recently bought a book on usefulness in disability.  I love how everyday people relish being given an opportunity.  People with disabilities are often doubly grateful.  We all want a job.  We all want to feel useful.  None of us deserve to be written off.
I recently heard about a lady with a “disability” who was given a chance.  Turns out she had a real gift for translating, and she was loved by the ones she worked with.  Sure, she had to be carried places, but what she brought with her, made it more than worth it.  What about the guy who does public speaking who has no arms or legs.  What a great attitude.  Sorta puts burnt toast in perspective.
People with disabilities do not need sympathy – they need opportunity.