Overcoming barriers my way….
I was born with an invisible disability called Central Core Disease. This means that I am missing the mitochondria’s that generate most of the chemical energy needed to power the cells in my skeletal muscles.
Consequently, I tire easily and have a hard time building muscle. My balance is not the best and I tend to fall quite easily when I am tired. I also take stairs one step at a time, ideally with a railing.
Growing up in a small town, I always wanted to explore other countries and had heard stories of how incredible south east Asia would be. So, with a few friends, I decided to head to Bali. After all, what’s the worst thing that could happen for a person with an invisible disability?
Let me tell you… the sidewalks had pot holes everywhere and often ended with a big step down to the road. Our Airbnb suite had entrance stairs with no railing and the hostels we’d chosen had ‘difficult to access’ bunk beds. On chartered boat trips, there was no accessible way to reach the boat. Needless to say, I had to learn to, and be okay with, asking for a lot of help.
Live and learn
I was determined to try scuba diving in Thailand. Sure, the instructor had to help carry my equipment down to the dock and help me down the stairs but the scuba diving adventure itself was a brilliant success. The trouble started once our boat docked adjacent to six others and the only way to reach the jetty was to climb over the bow of each of the other vessels.
It took six instructors to get me back onto the dock. Never complaining they each took turns carrying me. One even laid on his stomach between the boats so I could walk on his back like a bridge. I was amazed.
My reflections:
Along the way, I was helped a great deal, for which I was constantly grateful. The sites and sound of Bali, and its incredible temples, were amazing, despite the fact that visits usually required climbing up hundreds of stairs. Strangers and friends were more than willing to help me carry my back pack and lend me an arm whenever I needed it.
Upon reflection, now that I’m back in one piece, I have to say that I pleasantly surprised myself and I learned:
1) How lucky I am to live in a country where I can manage my day-to-day activities quite independently. Many, in other parts of the world, are not as fortunate.
2) I can physically do a lot more than I ever imagined. You never know until you try, I guess.
3) Most of humanity does want to help. Without the kindness of strangers, my trip would not have been as enjoyable.
4) And lastly, my voice is important. I was reminded that I must continue to be my own advocate. I’m the person who truly knows what I am capable of, willing and comfortable to try.
Morgan Swift is a member of The Canadian Abilities Foundation, Board of Directors and an Assistant Branch Manager at RBC in Vancouver.
Photo: iStock
