Share a thought to the office or factory, festive season party.
When I had full vision, in my 40’s, I used to love a party. I enjoyed the food, booze, and the reckless dad dancing.
Followed by a chippy supper and pointless conversations telling everyone I loved them.
Now, I have a wider understanding of life, poor vision, the wisdom to think and drink responsibly.
“I live in fear of the party season”
The fear of being left sat or stood in a corner, the threats of violence from the relievers. The following statement especially pours out of the mouth of the local half wit. This half wit has had a drink and wants to take the world on.
“Are you staring at me”
Then, there is the buffet!
The Christmas parties buffet, it’s easy to pull together, everyone’s eating requirements are met. From fish to roast potatoes, the savory to sweet, most of all it is one table.
With the additional hoists advantage, it’s served with paper plates and a wood fork and spoon.
Yet, the food is placed on a table, in a dark corner. The paper plates have no strength, and why do you always forget the cutely .
For me, the thought of trying to pick your favorite food is a challenge. This is the same for everyone else that has a disability. Placing it onto a magical folding plate adds to the difficulty.
Not forgetting that I would be holding onto my mobility white cane in the other hand. I have to consider, getting back to my table. A challenge of finding the safe zone.
This is then followed by a conga style walk through a crowd of festive rebellious colleagues. All shouting at each other, laughing uncontrollably about office life antics and much more.
I’m heading back to a place of sanctuary, the safe zone, usually in a corner, where I have been placed. “You will be safe here”.
Usually, with a hoard of other disabled people. A mixture of wheelchairs and crutches. A couple of assistance dogs and the collages that cannot cope with the noise or people.
Our carers or friendly colleague, leave us, feeling that they have done a good thing. Usually not realising that together we cannot manage the “ability tasks” like gathering food, buying a drink or three. Not with holding that continuous challenge of getting drunk and needing a pee. Plus, overlooking that we may not like each other!
Once I return to the “safe zone”, I place what is left on the magical folding plate. Pull out of one pocket my cutely. Then the other pocket is the remaining content of my drink.
Hopefully, you understand the anxiety and sadness this season causes. It affects many disabled people and touches people throughout the world.
Can I ask, please think about us. Don’t organise a staff party that is not inclusive. Think about what you can do. You will need to make sure we attend, we will find an excuse, review the above information.
If you see me on the dance floor, step to the side and enjoy the moves.
Have a brilliant festive season.
Please click into Sheri’s post for some extra supportive ideas in creating the perfect party.
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