Blog
Through the blog, Rachel’s Memoir The Skies I’m Under and The Skies We’re Under podcast we share the stories of fellow parents so we can all feel a little less alone and little more understood.
Click the icon to the left to access a page of useful resources that we have compiled over the years.
Can I really make a difference?
Some lovely people (probably my parents) have nominated me for the category of ‘Making a Difference’ at the BAPS blogging awards presented by Bringing us Together. It got me thinking, how do I want to make a difference? Firstly, the difference starts at home. There is no point in me speaking and writing to inform others about what life [...]
Mind the Gap: Parliament DCP manifesto launch
On 29th November I was privileged to speak on behalf of parents at the Disabled Children's Partnership manifesto launch at Parliament. It was fantastic to see so many charities and influential people recognising the struggles families like mine face daily. It was refreshing to feel seen and heard, that people are acknowledging the #SecretLivesofUs and wanting to see change. [...]
Success and how to measure it.
The lights were on, the stage packed and hundreds of people sat in anticipation. For months, volunteers, family and friends had supported performers to practice every week. Last night, S was on stage with an amazing group of people for Music is Magic at the London Palladium. It is the second time he has had this incredible opportunity. I [...]
Good parent, bad emotions. #worldmentalhealthday
“It’s just so hard, it's constant, not just physically but emotionally and mentally.” I muster every ounce of ‘I hear you’, with a simple nod. In slightly more frantic tones she continues, “it isn’t that it isn’t good, it is wonderful, she is deligh…” “Stop, you don’t need to explain.” Three times this week I have cut my friends [...]
100% Attendance Awards Government Petition
Challenging 100% Attendance Awards: There are many important things to make a noise about. Human trafficking, climate change, malaria epidemic, hunger, and the rights of LGBT are just a few that spring to mind. But in my little corner of the world, we are affected by ableism. Bringing up a family in a society that values people only because of [...]
“Please, Sir, I want some more.”
I was lying in bed this week and the image of Oliver floated into my head. I was debating with myself whether I dare ask for an increased care package for my son. “Please, sir, I want some more…” It's an iconic line from classic novel that has been retold to generations. I confess, I've never read the book [...]