Shining a light on Hidden Disability - Amy’s Story
Not all disabilities are easy to see. Some are carried quietly, affecting how someone processes the world around them and how we respond to them in return.
As part of our partnership with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, we are continuing to shine a spotlight on those in our community who live with non-visible disabilities and want to share their stories. We have previously talked to Simeon and Nick who both shared their inspiring stories, which you can also read on our blog.
Meet Amy
We sat down with Amy, who lives with an intellectual disability. What resonated with me most was her quiet wisdom, patience and the simple desire to be seen for who she was not her diagnosis. “I’ve been diagnosed with an intellectual disability, I’m okay with some things, but if something’s new, I need you to break it down, show me, and talk it through.”
It’s not about being incapable. It’s about learning differently and giving someone their own space to understand at their own pace. Amy shared how out of control environments can be overwhelming. Unexpected situations or unfamiliar people can throw her day off balance and sometimes, it’s just about not being up to dealing with things, which is to say we all feel that at times.
One of the more difficult parts of her journey has been people misunderstanding or choosing not to understand her disability. “Most of the time, people misunderstand.I have a speech issue, and it can be hard for people to understand me. Some even pretend they don’t understand, just to be mean.”
Then there are the assumptions, the wrong idea people carry. “People think our brains aren’t developed, or that we understand like a 4 or 5 year-old. That’s frustrating. We understand, we just learn differently”.
So what helps? What makes a real difference? “Get to know me. Everyone’s different. Understand that first. It helps when I get the choice to figure something out myself. And if I need it, a support worker can help explain things so I can make that choice confidently.”
One of Amy’s most positive experiences came when someone simply asked about her disability. “They just asked and I was happy to talk about it, and help them learn more”. When asked how they want to be treated, her answer was simple and full of heart. “Treat me with respect — just like you would anyone else. Please, no baby talk. That’s frustrating. I may have a disability, but I still understand.”
Amy believes awareness is growing, “People are learning more now, it’s easier to ask questions. We just need more education and kindness.” When I asked what advice she would give someone newly diagnosed with a hidden disability her answer was beautiful: “Don’t get upset. Don’t be ashamed, you are smart, in the heart and the brain!”
We move so fast and often we only see the surface. Stories like this remind us to slow down and look a little deeper, and meet each person with openness, kindness and a willingness to learn; because behind every hidden disability is a whole person, full of insight, courage and a story worth hearing!
If you would like to learn more about the Hidden Sunflower Initiative or to pick up a lanyard, please email info@glenray.com.au or visit the Glenray Head Office, 225 Howick Street, Bathurst.
