13/10/2024
Im finding it extremely frustrating and disheartening to be honest, as a trader that has a neurological disability (Narcolepsy with Cataplexy, diagnosed 6years ago), I can only manage 1days trading due to the exhaustion and complete brain and body fatigue I suffer due to my disability, being met with such a lack of inclusion to the 'big' events organised by local councils and other 'big' organisations that don't cater for someone with my condition/ needs. I feel slightly discriminated against to be truthful as I struggle throughout the year to make, carve and paint my products myself, taking care to produce quality items and get ready for the Christmas seasonal events to then be left out as I cannot meet the 'requirements' of trading over 3 consecutive days.
Stockton sparkles, middlesbrough christmas market and Darlington market aswell as Hardwick Hall and Wynyard etc (which I would have to apply for a loan before even being able to afford to attend for the 3 days trading IF I was able bodied...which I am not.) ALL exclude someone like me from being included in their very popular events. I am trying my hardest to struggle through a disability and try and make something of myself instead of giving up and just existing in a world that doesn't support invisible illness. I don't want to just exist and survive on a minimum income benefit payment.
I want to make something of myself and try and live, not just live to survive with this neurological disability but have to admit I am finding it hard to keep a positive attitude. I enjoy what I do but it is exhausting having to fight to be acknowledged for the daily struggles I face trying to get these products made for markets/ events at the end of each year never mind then being excluded from the big christmas events because my disability isn't recognised and makes it where I can't meet the requirements.
I am thankfully a stubborn mule, (family trait) so if it takes me a couple more years building up stock, so be it and I am thankful I have an amazing mother whos support knows no end. I may possibly take someone on board in the future to go to events for me (positive thinking) but I just wish it wasn't and didn't have to be this way and I could just be included.
Teesside Arts and Crafts Community The Independent Don't Ever Give Up On Yourself BBC Tees Invisible Illness Awareness Week Invisible Disability Project Narcolepsy in the UK Wake Up Narcolepsy North East UK Events & Stallholders Connect
