Dyspraxic, But Also Fantastic

Dyspraxic, But Also Fantastic

Dyspraxia is a form of Developmental Coordination Disorder which affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It can also have an impact on speech. There is no cure at present. It can have a serious impact on the individual’s life and can cause great hardship for all those involved.

On my last article titled ‘Diving into Dyspraxia’ I ended with the statement that those with the condition are ‘not only Dyspraxic but they can also be fantastic’. With the right support and love those with the serious condition can reach their full potential, thrive in society and leave behind amazing legacies.

I have lived with Dyspraxia since childhood and have found this statement to be extremely positive in the sense it gives the motivation to overcome any obstacle that may come my way.

As ‘Dyspraxia Awareness Week’ takes place between Sunday 12^th October and Saturday 18^th October 2014, I thought it was only right to talk about the incredible things people with Dyspraxia have done and the abundance of talent they have shown.

The Dyspraxia Mind-Map

On the ‘Dyspraxia Foundation’ Facebook page I came across this encouraging mind-map which demonstrates the positive attributes whose with Dyspraxia often display.

Copyright © 2014- Dyspraxia Foundation. All rights reserved.

It would seem that those impacted can be empathetic; can be forgiving; and can be sensitive. In this article I will be focusing on how inspiring and courageous these individuals can be, as despite the pain they may be going through they are still simply incredible.

Inspiring

There is no doubt that those with Dyspraxia are inspirational individuals. They may have difficulties, for example when it comes to coordination and speech, but they are so determined that they aim to achieve great heights.

Copyright © 2014- Mikey. All rights reserved.

This beautiful poem titled ‘I am the Boy’ is written by Mikey, a thirteen year old boy with Verbal Dyspraxia. He has written an incredibly powerful piece expressing his thoughts on a condition that impacts him daily. His wonderful mother said that this is something he would find very challenging to do verbally. His family are so proud of him and they should be. Coming from someone who lives with Dyspraxia, I thoroughly applaud you Mikey. You are a true inspiration.  

Mikey is just one example of how motivating people with Dyspraxia can be. It is the love and support from family, close friends and supporters which gives them the determination to move millions.

Courageous

It is hard to admit but like many others I was bullied at school. This was mainly due to the ‘differences’ which Dyspraxia often presents. I was often laughed at when I played sport or when my handwriting looked like barbed wire.

Despite these times I will never forget what one of my friends told me.

They said “Jake, you are the most courageous person I’ve ever known.”

I thanked them, not truly knowing what they meant by this.

Over the last few years, as I have understood my conditions more, I realise that perhaps what they were trying to say is that in spite of the suffering I faced I was not going to let those few negative people destroy my life. Instead I tried very hard to focus on those who made a positive difference. Of course this took time, but I still built up the courage to walk away from all those bad influences.

Stories like this are surprisingly common with those living with Dyspraxia. It takes real courage to live with any learning condition, especially if it is one where you are prone to be attacked by horrible people. Ignoring them and their mean comments does take a lot of bravery.

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No matter who you may be, just remember this. Every single individual who is fighting against a condition like Dyspraxia is a real person. Just like many others, life throws them difficult challenges which they have to face. Overcoming these obstacles takes real guts, persistence and dedication. They are also fantastic individuals who have demonstrated and will continue to demonstrate how courageous and inspirational they can be to all those who are willing to listen.

Thanks everyone for the brilliant support and have a great weekend.