In this episode of "Disabled and Proud," Brooke speaks with Nicole Brennan. Together they explore the complexities of motherhood and disability, exploring the internalised ableism that often accompanies these experiences.
The conversation highlights the transformative journey of accepting one's body and identity as a disabled mother, particularly in the face of societal expectations and scrutiny from healthcare professionals. They discuss the creation of the I Am Possible Foundation, aimed at increasing representation and support for individuals with limb differences.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Internalised Ableism and Motherhood : The experience of becoming a mother can amplify feelings of inadequacy, especially for those with disabilities. The pressure to conform to societal standards of motherhood can lead to internalised ableism, where individuals question their worth and abilities as parents.
Transitioning from Charity to Business : The conversation highlights the shift from viewing disability-focused initiatives as charities to recognising them as legitimate businesses. This change promotes sustainability and autonomy in supporting the disabled community without relying solely on donations.
The Importance of Community and Support : Engaging with others who share similar experiences can be empowering. The creation of platforms for sharing stories fosters a sense of community and provides valuable resources for those navigating challenges related to disability and motherhood.
BEST MOMENTS
"I was just picking on me as a person. It wasn't actually my arm, it felt like it was me as a mum. Like, I'm just not good enough."
"I was like, I don't want him to grow up in a world where his mum sees herself the way she does."
"It's so fucking lazy to consistently put disabled businesses under the guise of charity."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Join the I Am Possible Foundation - https://store.iampossiblefoundation.co.uk/
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878
HOST BIO
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media .https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
