More Able...

There has been some talk in the past few days as to whether we now view disabled people differently as a result of the Paralympic Games and the extensive media coverage. Personally, I would say that this Paralympic Games has done more for disabled awareness than ever before. It would be wrong to suggest that there has been an increase in sympathy - and most disabled people would not wish for this - but there has been an enormous increase in understanding and a realisation that disability should not confine people to their homes. The people we have seen competing in the last couple of weeks have shown us all that disability should not be a barrier and that much can be achieved with determination and hard work.

I also think that young children are more aware, than any other generation before them, of how disability can affect people but more importantly how such disability can be overcome to achieve great things. An example is how my son has sat glued to much of the Paralympics TV coverage and questioned the things he has seen, taking huge interest in those competing and their physical differences. As a result, I am confident he has learnt more in the last two weeks than he would in all his years at school. The experience of the last two weeks has been to educate, raise awareness and instill a profound respect for all those taking part. We often refer to the athletes of the Paralympic Games as being 'disabled', but are they? Would you call a double amputee who wins a 1400 meter race disabled? I wouldn't - they are more able than anyone...