A disabled woman challenges the 'status quo' in Ireland. This blog was started to highlight inequality, abuse and injustice in the lives of disabled people. The wooden spoon was given to me when I graduated (PhD) as I'm known to 'stir up' and get things done. I'm still stirring from my wheelchair...Justice for disabled people demands we 'stir-up' complacency, injustice, inequality lack of services, and scapegoating . Disabled people deserve rights not charity! "Nothing about me without me!"
About Me
- Dr Margaret Kennedy
- A campaigner against Clergy sexual Abuse, Disablity Inequality & abuse, Housing Scandal for disabled people, HSE inadequacies
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Equality Authority - Multiple Disadvantage in Ireland - An equality Analysis of Census 2006
Equality Authority - Multiple Disadvantage in Ireland - An equality Analysis of Census 2006
this report published this year but based on 2006 census
this report published this year but based on 2006 census
Slow progress in mental health service as tide goes out on Victorian-era hospitals - The Irish Times - Sat, Dec 29, 2012
Slow progress in mental health service as tide goes out on Victorian-era hospitals - The Irish Times - Sat, Dec 29, 2012
the victorian hospitals may be going but not the victorian attitudes
the victorian hospitals may be going but not the victorian attitudes
Backlash of the Paralympians: Athletes claim double standards in sport honours - Home News - UK - The Independent
Backlash of the Paralympians: Athletes claim double standards in sport honours - Home News - UK - The Independent
are we surprised...no! Tanni-gray does not represent ALL disabled people! i find her irritating to say the least!
are we surprised...no! Tanni-gray does not represent ALL disabled people! i find her irritating to say the least!
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Minister worried by numbers on disability - The Irish Times - Mon, Dec 24, 2012
Minister worried by numbers on disability - The Irish Times - Mon, Dec 24, 2012
we disabled people should be worried. Ireland always copies the UK and in the UK the knives are out politically against disabled people. we have to see these 'attacks' as discrimination with a global political message we are scroungers and wasters! hitlers 'useless eaters' (us) are seen as destrygoats in a recessionary climate. we should fight back....strongly
we disabled people should be worried. Ireland always copies the UK and in the UK the knives are out politically against disabled people. we have to see these 'attacks' as discrimination with a global political message we are scroungers and wasters! hitlers 'useless eaters' (us) are seen as destrygoats in a recessionary climate. we should fight back....strongly
Five nurses struck off by High Court - The Irish Times - Mon, Dec 24, 2012
Five nurses struck off by High Court - The Irish Times - Mon, Dec 24, 2012
it would be interesting to know what sort of hospitals care situations these nurses were in. bet it was the learning disability or elderly care!
it would be interesting to know what sort of hospitals care situations these nurses were in. bet it was the learning disability or elderly care!
Friday, December 21, 2012
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Tenants on disability to pay council more rent - The Irish Times - Thu, Dec 20, 2012
Tenants on disability to pay council more rent - The Irish Times - Thu, Dec 20, 2012
This is outrageous. 'The Councillors were told the council’s housing rent scheme had disregarded “a subsidiary earner’s income from disability allowance” when calculating rent households should pay'. It seems DLRCC don't yet understand that disability allowance is NOT an EXTRA allowance, it defrays the EXTRA costs in being disabled. This is NOT extra cash!
OUTRAGEOUS
This is outrageous. 'The Councillors were told the council’s housing rent scheme had disregarded “a subsidiary earner’s income from disability allowance” when calculating rent households should pay'. It seems DLRCC don't yet understand that disability allowance is NOT an EXTRA allowance, it defrays the EXTRA costs in being disabled. This is NOT extra cash!
OUTRAGEOUS
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Let’s stop scaring parents of autistic kids | BabyCenter Blog
Let’s stop scaring parents of autistic kids | BabyCenter Blog
about the american man who killed the schoolchildren and teachers
about the american man who killed the schoolchildren and teachers
MP challenges Cameron over disability benefits | Tyne Tees - ITV News
MP challenges Cameron over disability benefits | Tyne Tees - ITV News
We need to do the same here in Ireland. Who is really speaking for us?
We need to do the same here in Ireland. Who is really speaking for us?
Friday, December 14, 2012
More than 300,000 disabled people to have benefits cut says Esther McVey - UK Politics - UK - The Independent
More than 300,000 disabled people to have benefits cut says Esther McVey - UK Politics - UK - The Independent
what does this young woman know about disability. It proves beyond doubt that the government are on a cost cutting exercise NOT based on needs. It is also suggesting that those who are on DLA 330,000 should never have had it therefore back on the 'scroungers' tack. Outrageous.
what does this young woman know about disability. It proves beyond doubt that the government are on a cost cutting exercise NOT based on needs. It is also suggesting that those who are on DLA 330,000 should never have had it therefore back on the 'scroungers' tack. Outrageous.
Column: Why am I made to feel like a scrounger? · TheJournal.ie
Column: Why am I made to feel like a scrounger? · TheJournal.ie
ditto...i know the feeling. only in my case its made to feel a trouble maker if i ask for help or complain about not getting it. service providers in Ireland have one useful stratedgy don't ring Margaret back if she calls. Don't reply to official complaints. I think even receptionists are briefed not to put calls through to relevant people.
ditto...i know the feeling. only in my case its made to feel a trouble maker if i ask for help or complain about not getting it. service providers in Ireland have one useful stratedgy don't ring Margaret back if she calls. Don't reply to official complaints. I think even receptionists are briefed not to put calls through to relevant people.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Hardest Hit comments on 13 December 2012 Personal Independence Payment (PIP) announcement | The Hardest Hit
Hardest Hit comments on 13 December 2012 Personal Independence Payment (PIP) announcement | The Hardest Hit
I get this benefit. Don't yet know whether I'll be affected. It's really scary. Protest...please protest.
I get this benefit. Don't yet know whether I'll be affected. It's really scary. Protest...please protest.
Disabled man takes government to court over benefit test | Society | The Guardian
Disabled man takes government to court over benefit test | Society | The Guardian
We need to start taking legal action in Ireland.
We need to start taking legal action in Ireland.
awnyah todaysay: budget blah and woolly hats
awnyah todaysay: budget blah and woolly hats
a tragic but true reflection on how poor disabled , sick and vulnerable people are living lives of utter misery here in Ireland. And I see the UK is similar and America probably even worse. Why are people ALREADY compromised physically, emotionally and psychologically through no fault of our own. We are hammered by this Government. and no one seems to care!
a tragic but true reflection on how poor disabled , sick and vulnerable people are living lives of utter misery here in Ireland. And I see the UK is similar and America probably even worse. Why are people ALREADY compromised physically, emotionally and psychologically through no fault of our own. We are hammered by this Government. and no one seems to care!
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Winterbourne View: 50 years of broken promises | Disability News Service
Winterbourne View: 50 years of broken promises | Disability News Service
a terrible place where learning disabled people were abuse (UK) but Ireland had it's scandal in the abuse of learning disabled people in the Brothers of Charity Galway. Alan Shatter, kathleen Lynch when in opposition fought for stutory public inquiry but now in Gov they haven't done a thing. so as usual our learning disabled brothers and sisters just get forgotten
a terrible place where learning disabled people were abuse (UK) but Ireland had it's scandal in the abuse of learning disabled people in the Brothers of Charity Galway. Alan Shatter, kathleen Lynch when in opposition fought for stutory public inquiry but now in Gov they haven't done a thing. so as usual our learning disabled brothers and sisters just get forgotten
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
President Higgins - ireland on our 'international Reputation ..in human rights?!
President Michael D Higgins has described Ireland’s election to the United Nation’s body for human rights as “an honour”.
Higgins said the decision to give Ireland a seat on the UN’s Human Rights Council (UNHRC) was a strong endorsement of Ireland’s international reputation. This I find astounding. What international reputation in 'human rights' would President Higgins be referring to?
In relation to the 'Convention On The Rights of Persons with Disabilities' Ireland has still not ratified the international rights instrument intended to protect persons with disabilities. Parties in the convention are required to 'promote, protect, and ensure the full enjoyment of human rights by persons with disabilities and ensure that they enjoy full equality under the law. The text was adopted by the United Nations General assembly on 13th December 2006 and opened for signatures on 30th March 2007. It came into force on 3rd May 2008. As of December 2012, it has 154 signatures and 126 parties, including the European Union, Ireland is absent.
Furthermore Ireland still retains laws describing Learning disabled people as 'lunatics' and has just written a budget far removed from ensuring disabled people have 'full enjoyment of human rights' and 'ensure that they enjoy full equality under the law'. On the contrary this government has plunged disabled and sick people, and elderly who are largely disabled, into utter despair, poverty, cold and hungry with little or no support services.
It would now seem obvious to all that this Government has NOT ratified the 'Convention on the Rights of Disabled People' precisely because they wanted the ability to cut services in this sector which might then be in breach of the ratified convention.
Far from having an 'international' reputation Ireland has an absymal reputation in care for vulnerable and disabled persons. President Higgins would be wise to learn of what the Convention on the Rights of Disabled People' actually asks of Government and then to assess if we, indeed, have ANY good reputation in this area.
Higgins said the decision to give Ireland a seat on the UN’s Human Rights Council (UNHRC) was a strong endorsement of Ireland’s international reputation. This I find astounding. What international reputation in 'human rights' would President Higgins be referring to?
In relation to the 'Convention On The Rights of Persons with Disabilities' Ireland has still not ratified the international rights instrument intended to protect persons with disabilities. Parties in the convention are required to 'promote, protect, and ensure the full enjoyment of human rights by persons with disabilities and ensure that they enjoy full equality under the law. The text was adopted by the United Nations General assembly on 13th December 2006 and opened for signatures on 30th March 2007. It came into force on 3rd May 2008. As of December 2012, it has 154 signatures and 126 parties, including the European Union, Ireland is absent.
Furthermore Ireland still retains laws describing Learning disabled people as 'lunatics' and has just written a budget far removed from ensuring disabled people have 'full enjoyment of human rights' and 'ensure that they enjoy full equality under the law'. On the contrary this government has plunged disabled and sick people, and elderly who are largely disabled, into utter despair, poverty, cold and hungry with little or no support services.
It would now seem obvious to all that this Government has NOT ratified the 'Convention on the Rights of Disabled People' precisely because they wanted the ability to cut services in this sector which might then be in breach of the ratified convention.
Far from having an 'international' reputation Ireland has an absymal reputation in care for vulnerable and disabled persons. President Higgins would be wise to learn of what the Convention on the Rights of Disabled People' actually asks of Government and then to assess if we, indeed, have ANY good reputation in this area.
Home | Parkinsons.ie | Parkinson's Association of Ireland
Home | Parkinsons.ie | Parkinson's Association of Ireland
another organisation worried about the budget
another organisation worried about the budget
Monday, December 10, 2012
English Heritage reveals a time and a place for disability history - About Access News
English Heritage reveals a time and a place for disability history - About Access News
interesting - wonder if Ireland is doing anything on disability history
interesting - wonder if Ireland is doing anything on disability history
Coalition packs equality duty review with friendly faces; Budget benefit cuts are ‘serious threat’ to independence; ODI silence; Anger over Workfare Scheme; English Heri
Budget benefit cuts are ‘serious threat’ to independence (posted 07.12.12)
Budget benefit cuts are ‘serious threat’ to independence (posted 07.12.12)
Now they are targetting disabled people in the UK. We have to fight back this new 21st Centary attack against disabled people sweeping Europe
Now they are targetting disabled people in the UK. We have to fight back this new 21st Centary attack against disabled people sweeping Europe
Irish Left Review | Disability Rights, Not Charity
Irish Left Review | Disability Rights, Not Charity
i'm in the pink hat with my twin,. we carry red scissors..
i'm in the pink hat with my twin,. we carry red scissors..
Your Voice Your Choice 2012
Your Voice Your Choice 2012
I was there and I cannot see anything new here that hasn't been said a hundred times before. Such a waste of money, time energy. Collecting our views is a sop to proving proper services. that's what we need, not a talking shop.
nothing will come out of this ...NOTHING.
I fail to see how Minister Kathleen Lynch protected disabled people in this 2013 budget so this report just sticks in my gullet.
I was there and I cannot see anything new here that hasn't been said a hundred times before. Such a waste of money, time energy. Collecting our views is a sop to proving proper services. that's what we need, not a talking shop.
nothing will come out of this ...NOTHING.
I fail to see how Minister Kathleen Lynch protected disabled people in this 2013 budget so this report just sticks in my gullet.
Who are you calling a Lunatic? | Inclusion Ireland
Who are you calling a Lunatic? | Inclusion Ireland
yep our laws are dickensian...you couldn't make it up!
yep our laws are dickensian...you couldn't make it up!
BBC News - Have attitudes to disability changed?
BBC News - Have attitudes to disability changed? since the paralympics.
this might be useful for people in Ireland to reflect on
this might be useful for people in Ireland to reflect on
Persons with disabilities demand equal rights, representation | New Europe
Persons with disabilities demand equal rights, representation | New Europe
Since Ireland has not ratfied the UN convention on disabled people's rights it looks like this country won't be sending ANY reps to the EU.
I believe we are represented by a disability organisation run largely by non-disabled people. We want to represent OURSELVES! At Least I do!
Since Ireland has not ratfied the UN convention on disabled people's rights it looks like this country won't be sending ANY reps to the EU.
I believe we are represented by a disability organisation run largely by non-disabled people. We want to represent OURSELVES! At Least I do!
Sunday, December 9, 2012
on my facebook page today - disgrace ireland
GARDAI CALLED TO LONE CARER WITH PLACARD.
E-mail sent to Michael McCarthy TD...read and be very afraid !
Dear Michael,
as the constant assistance that my disabled son needs precluded me from attending the Carers Association picket outside the Daíl today I intended to make my own protest by having my photograph taken with a placard outside each of West Cork's three TD's constituency offices and pos...
E-mail sent to Michael McCarthy TD...read and be very afraid !
Dear Michael,
as the constant assistance that my disabled son needs precluded me from attending the Carers Association picket outside the Daíl today I intended to make my own protest by having my photograph taken with a placard outside each of West Cork's three TD's constituency offices and pos...
ting these to the Carers Association Facebook page in support. On arriving at your Constituency Office a young women immediately came outside to ask she could help me. I replied that I was just taking a photograph. Her response was immediate....'This is private property, the Gards are on their way.' I left immediately and the Gardai, heading for your office with a number of Gardai in the car, did pass us as we left.
As you well know, I am one lone parent Carer who provides constant care to a very severely autistic young man and I note your intention to process a Private Members Bill to promote the rights of autistics. My placard read as follows.....
'My disabled son needs 24/7/365 care. I get 1 hour and 8 minutes help per day. I do ALL the rest, every day of every week of every year. Slashing the RESPITE GRANT is INHUMAN.'
We have no Garda cover here for large chunks of time due to cuts and yet a car-full can be mobilised instantly to protect your office from one carer of mature years with a placard.
I await your comments and please note that I have reported this incident in full to the Carers Association.
See moreAs you well know, I am one lone parent Carer who provides constant care to a very severely autistic young man and I note your intention to process a Private Members Bill to promote the rights of autistics. My placard read as follows.....
'My disabled son needs 24/7/365 care. I get 1 hour and 8 minutes help per day. I do ALL the rest, every day of every week of every year. Slashing the RESPITE GRANT is INHUMAN.'
We have no Garda cover here for large chunks of time due to cuts and yet a car-full can be mobilised instantly to protect your office from one carer of mature years with a placard.
I await your comments and please note that I have reported this incident in full to the Carers Association.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Montreal deaf school alumni demand justice from Catholic order for alleged abuse - Toronto Disability | Examiner.com
Montreal deaf school alumni demand justice from Catholic order for alleged abuse - Toronto Disability | Examiner.com
Disabled children are far more likely to be abused than non-disabled children. You only have to look at the Irish Inquiry reports to see this country had HUGE abuses in schools and institutions for disabled people. we also had HUGE abuse scandals in nearly ALL deaf schools in Ireland.
Disabled children are far more likely to be abused than non-disabled children. You only have to look at the Irish Inquiry reports to see this country had HUGE abuses in schools and institutions for disabled people. we also had HUGE abuse scandals in nearly ALL deaf schools in Ireland.
Rights of disabled people may be at risk, says Human Rights Committee - News from Parliament - UK Parliament
Rights of disabled people may be at risk, says Human Rights Committee - News from Parliament - UK Parliament
Independent living is a HUMAN RIGHT...we deserve to live our lives in the community and as we want.
Independent living is a HUMAN RIGHT...we deserve to live our lives in the community and as we want.
EUobserver.com / Disability / 'No money for EU projects discriminating disabled people'
EUobserver.com / Disability / 'No money for EU projects discriminating disabled people'
This is an important parliment/forum for disabled people in europe. how many know it even exists/?
This is an important parliment/forum for disabled people in europe. how many know it even exists/?
European Parliament of Persons with Disabilities: inclusion of disabled people.. - 05/12/2012 - EPP Group
European Parliament of Persons with Disabilities: inclusion of disabled people.. - 05/12/2012 - EPP Group
I am led to believe that Ireland is NOT represented on this parliment by a disabled person but by a disability organisation (which is not quite the same thing!)
I am led to believe that Ireland is NOT represented on this parliment by a disabled person but by a disability organisation (which is not quite the same thing!)
Mehdi's Morning Memo: Osborne Vs The Disabled
Mehdi's Morning Memo: Osborne Vs The Disabled
News from the UK - cuts cuts cuts AGAIN. Maybe my parliment should be European based
News from the UK - cuts cuts cuts AGAIN. Maybe my parliment should be European based
Disability Parliment 2
So the Ist Leader Aka myself (for the time being) has left out some important leaderships;
Leader of arts
Leader of gender equality (includes equality of Lesbian, gay, transgender people)
Leader of Family life (includes rights under birth, marriage, adoption, fostering etc) (Includes Abortion issues and maternal health in childbirth) (Includes single parenting) (Includes gay parenting)
Leader of arts
Leader of gender equality (includes equality of Lesbian, gay, transgender people)
Leader of Family life (includes rights under birth, marriage, adoption, fostering etc) (Includes Abortion issues and maternal health in childbirth) (Includes single parenting) (Includes gay parenting)
Friday, December 7, 2012
Union: Slash top pensions, not care grants | Irish Examiner
Union: Slash top pensions, not care grants | Irish Examiner
The Irish Gov attempt to 'protect the vulnerable' 0Enda said that the budget did this! huh? Enda....go back to school and learn the meaning of 'protection' and 'vulnerable'
The Irish Gov attempt to 'protect the vulnerable' 0Enda said that the budget did this! huh? Enda....go back to school and learn the meaning of 'protection' and 'vulnerable'
Couple guilty of unlawful killing by neglect of woman in Wexford - The Irish Times - Sat, Dec 08, 2012
Couple guilty of unlawful killing by neglect of woman in Wexford - The Irish Times - Sat, Dec 08, 2012
Caregiver neglect and abuse is under reported in Ireland. we need to wake up! whilst most 'carer's' are good and loyal and loving there are some who are resentful, want the inheritance and bitter about the responsibilities. They 'hasten' the disabled person into death and we must be vigilent.
disabled people, adults and children ARE abused, and we cannot shirk from that reality
Caregiver neglect and abuse is under reported in Ireland. we need to wake up! whilst most 'carer's' are good and loyal and loving there are some who are resentful, want the inheritance and bitter about the responsibilities. They 'hasten' the disabled person into death and we must be vigilent.
disabled people, adults and children ARE abused, and we cannot shirk from that reality
The Disability Parliment
All members to be disabled.
The Disability Rights perspective is paramount
The Social Model of Disability is paramount
Ministers to be called 'Leaders' NOT Ministers.
Here's my Disability Parliment 'Leaderships': (dreamtime)
First Leader: Multi-disability perspective with record of disability rights perspective in all things 'disability'.
Leader on 'Human Rights for Disabled people'
Leader on 'European Disability matters'
Leader on 'Mental Health' .
Leader on 'Learning difficulties'
Leader on 'Disabled Adults' (Includes elderly disabled people)
Leader on 'Disabled Teenagers'
Leader on 'Disabled Children'
Leader on 'Sensory Impairment'
Leader on the 'protection of Disabled children from assault/rape/abuse/neglect'
Leader on the 'protection of Disabled Adults from assault/rape/abuse/neglect/'domestic' violence'
Leader on 'Hate Crime against Disabled people'
Leader on 'Employment of Disabled people'
Leader on 'Welfare for Disabled people.
Leader on 'Disability Sports'
Leader on 'Independent living'.
Leader on 'Institutional Care'
Maybe some Leaderships can be joined together. But isn't it a fab idea! says she humbly! anyone up for it?
email: magsken57@gmail.com
The Disability Rights perspective is paramount
The Social Model of Disability is paramount
Ministers to be called 'Leaders' NOT Ministers.
Here's my Disability Parliment 'Leaderships': (dreamtime)
First Leader: Multi-disability perspective with record of disability rights perspective in all things 'disability'.
Leader on 'Human Rights for Disabled people'
Leader on 'European Disability matters'
Leader on 'Mental Health' .
Leader on 'Learning difficulties'
Leader on 'Disabled Adults' (Includes elderly disabled people)
Leader on 'Disabled Teenagers'
Leader on 'Disabled Children'
Leader on 'Sensory Impairment'
Leader on the 'protection of Disabled children from assault/rape/abuse/neglect'
Leader on the 'protection of Disabled Adults from assault/rape/abuse/neglect/'domestic' violence'
Leader on 'Hate Crime against Disabled people'
Leader on 'Employment of Disabled people'
Leader on 'Welfare for Disabled people.
Leader on 'Disability Sports'
Leader on 'Independent living'.
Leader on 'Institutional Care'
Maybe some Leaderships can be joined together. But isn't it a fab idea! says she humbly! anyone up for it?
email: magsken57@gmail.com
'OUTRAGE'
have been racking my brains as to where we disabled people can go to from here! that is, are we raging enough/ Are we challanging enough/ are we angry enough/ certainly unlike in spain or UK we are NOT chaining ourselves to Leinster House railings, or throwing paint on Gov ministers cars or any other more 'OUTRAGeous' behaviour. i don't think some of these actions are wise, but I understand them.
do the people of ireland KNOW us, do they KNOW about our lives? dDo they WANT to know us or anything about our lives? Are we visible on screen, TV, in shops or buisnesses? or are we only visible in charity collections, appeals or begging situations?
Do we have a political clout. I'm thinking here of the Senior Parliment as an example. Should we set up a disability 'parliment'. yes I like that Idea.
A new political party!
who wants to join my cabinet?
contact if interested in being part of something more radical (but not paint throwing).
We can't just sit here and 'take it' !
do the people of ireland KNOW us, do they KNOW about our lives? dDo they WANT to know us or anything about our lives? Are we visible on screen, TV, in shops or buisnesses? or are we only visible in charity collections, appeals or begging situations?
Do we have a political clout. I'm thinking here of the Senior Parliment as an example. Should we set up a disability 'parliment'. yes I like that Idea.
A new political party!
who wants to join my cabinet?
contact if interested in being part of something more radical (but not paint throwing).
We can't just sit here and 'take it' !
my letter in today's Irish Times
Sir, – Enda Kenny assured us that the most vulnerable had been protected in this Budget. He obviously has no idea of what the “vulnerable” – sick, disabled and elderly as well as those low income parents depending on child benefit – were already struggling with.
The pre-budget comment was a cynical “false prophecy” to befuddle and hearten these groups only to hammer them on Wednesday. There was no “wriggle room” for these groups before the budget and now they have been plunged into the abyss. Barnardos, the SVP, the Carers Association, Older and Bolder, Age Action and disability organisations have all come out to roundly criticise the targeting of vulnerable groups. Far from “protecting the most vulnerable” Enda Kenny and the Fine Gael-Labour coalition has brought fear and terror to people least able to “stretch” their dwindling resources. It won’t be TDs or bankers, or the troika going to bed tonight in utter despair.
Medicines won’t be taken, fuel won’t be bought, people will become sicker and more distressed, increasingly seeking help from hospitals, psychiatric institutions and nursing homes. This, is the end result of Mr Kenny’s farcical statement that the “vulnerable have been protected” in this budget. – Yours, etc,
Dr MARGARET KENNEDY,
Greystones, Co Wicklow
The pre-budget comment was a cynical “false prophecy” to befuddle and hearten these groups only to hammer them on Wednesday. There was no “wriggle room” for these groups before the budget and now they have been plunged into the abyss. Barnardos, the SVP, the Carers Association, Older and Bolder, Age Action and disability organisations have all come out to roundly criticise the targeting of vulnerable groups. Far from “protecting the most vulnerable” Enda Kenny and the Fine Gael-Labour coalition has brought fear and terror to people least able to “stretch” their dwindling resources. It won’t be TDs or bankers, or the troika going to bed tonight in utter despair.
Medicines won’t be taken, fuel won’t be bought, people will become sicker and more distressed, increasingly seeking help from hospitals, psychiatric institutions and nursing homes. This, is the end result of Mr Kenny’s farcical statement that the “vulnerable have been protected” in this budget. – Yours, etc,
Dr MARGARET KENNEDY,
Greystones, Co Wicklow
Thursday, December 6, 2012
2012 Budget
The demolition of lives I think is how best to describe yesterday's dreadful Budget. was it Eamonn Gilmore or Enda Kenny who said pre-budget that the budget had 'protected the most vulnerable'! are they living on another planet.
I don't, myself like being judged 'vulnerable' just because I am disabled, afterall every human being is vulnerable one way or another. However in general public perceptions disabled, sick and elderly and children ARE perceived as vulnerable and they have all just been made MORE vulnerable.
But put another way our HUMAN RIGHTS have been walked all over by this budget. It is a human right to lives lives worth living. It is a human right to have food, warmth, and shelter. It is a human right to have medical care and support services. These rights are there to enable those of us who are judged 'vulnerable' to have additional protection.
This government has run roughshod through our HUMAN RIGHTS.
This is therefore not about a BUDGET, but about discrimination. Discrimination on the basis of our conditions, and stemming from hitlarian mentality that we are 'useless eaters', 'untermenschion' (Sub Human), these are the terms used by hitler to justify killing disabled people in gas chambers before he ever started on the jewish population. We have always been viewed as 'costly', as 'a drain on the state' and some of the comments made on Journal.ie in relation to welfare cuts all show this Hilarian mentality.
It does not go unnoticed by politicians and journalists who subliminally discuss the HUGE welfare costs as if the Country's crises was all our fault!
it's a scary position to be in. First more costs piled on, cuts in services and benefits and on top of that the view we are a drain on the state and thus cause the crises. How are we to live with this onslought?
we fight back, we challange, we protest and we demand our human Rights. We do not cave in in despair, we cannot do that because we owe it to disabled children coming after us to change Hilarian Mentality NOW!
I'm trying to do my best and if I hadn't got one hell of a stinking cold I'd be outside leinster House today. I will try to get there next week.
Know you are loved by this campaigner. I'm sorry we are all suffering, but one thing I know...it was not our fault.
I don't, myself like being judged 'vulnerable' just because I am disabled, afterall every human being is vulnerable one way or another. However in general public perceptions disabled, sick and elderly and children ARE perceived as vulnerable and they have all just been made MORE vulnerable.
But put another way our HUMAN RIGHTS have been walked all over by this budget. It is a human right to lives lives worth living. It is a human right to have food, warmth, and shelter. It is a human right to have medical care and support services. These rights are there to enable those of us who are judged 'vulnerable' to have additional protection.
This government has run roughshod through our HUMAN RIGHTS.
This is therefore not about a BUDGET, but about discrimination. Discrimination on the basis of our conditions, and stemming from hitlarian mentality that we are 'useless eaters', 'untermenschion' (Sub Human), these are the terms used by hitler to justify killing disabled people in gas chambers before he ever started on the jewish population. We have always been viewed as 'costly', as 'a drain on the state' and some of the comments made on Journal.ie in relation to welfare cuts all show this Hilarian mentality.
It does not go unnoticed by politicians and journalists who subliminally discuss the HUGE welfare costs as if the Country's crises was all our fault!
it's a scary position to be in. First more costs piled on, cuts in services and benefits and on top of that the view we are a drain on the state and thus cause the crises. How are we to live with this onslought?
we fight back, we challange, we protest and we demand our human Rights. We do not cave in in despair, we cannot do that because we owe it to disabled children coming after us to change Hilarian Mentality NOW!
I'm trying to do my best and if I hadn't got one hell of a stinking cold I'd be outside leinster House today. I will try to get there next week.
Know you are loved by this campaigner. I'm sorry we are all suffering, but one thing I know...it was not our fault.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Disability Rights Alliance protest 'Rights not charity' Dublin, 21st ...
Disability Rights Alliance protest 'Rights not charity' Dublin, 21st ...
a great sucess...will the government hear us
a great sucess...will the government hear us
upsetting post on the web - read with caution
This offensive post went up on a site in Ireland last evening after the disability protest in Dublin. It shows what I've been thinking all alone. disability hate Crime. Which underpines cuts. Maybe I'm alarmist but just read this shit!
Hate to do it but have to play Devil’s Advocate…First of all all thieving bankers and those that manipulate the markets should be taken behind a shed and sent on their way to hell BUT as someone who has seen what people with kids with disabilities are I have to say 80% of the time…Fuck em.
You want to see demanding, arrogant, threatening parents?…Go see what a teacher has to put up with with people who want to have kids, know they are having disabled kids yet expect everyone to pay for their kid’s needs and on top of that dump them off at schools as babysitters.
I am sure many of these kids are sweet but so many are brought into this world with ZERO ability to survive without constant help, medication or medical attention…I for one am tired of these dumb ass people…Ever have to tackle an autistic kid who is threatening others?…Ever have a kid who has over 20 seizures a day disrupting the flow of others from learning?
A neighbor has a severely disable child…It breaks my heart to see him in a wheelchair smelling of piss and shit because he can’t control it…Nor can he speak.
Why would you selfishly bring this child to this world who is not only mentally slow and physically disabled that he can only move his left hand?Sometimes it’s okay to not have the child…For mercy’s sake…What will happen to the child when the mother who is in her 40′s dies or is unable to take care of him?
People need vasectomies and free birth control…It isn’t enough that scum bankers/traders and politicians are choking the life out of us but now we’re trapping ourselves…I know it sound like eugenics but you know what?…Sometimes the weak aren’t meant to be born…Sounds horrible but people have to see that YOUR choices in life have nothing to do with my responsibilities.
You want to have a disable kid KNOWING that he’s disabled…Then deal with the consequences…As of now due to great medical advances just about everything of the child can be known before he comes to term…So to the Irish…Get your head out of your ass and let medical procedures happen without all your fake ass Catholic Piousness
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
cardboard scissor sisters
Draft National Standards for Residential Centres for People with Disabilities | hiqa.ie
Draft National Standards for Residential Centres for People with Disabilities | hiqa.ie
Tomorrow is last day for feedback on these standards. Please look and FEEDBACK
Thank You
Tomorrow is last day for feedback on these standards. Please look and FEEDBACK
Thank You
Monday, November 19, 2012
Disability Rights Coalition Ireland
Disability Rights Coalition Ireland
please all remember this is almost the last chance to tell this government in ireland that they seserve to be 'off the pitch'. "foul" play is not on. and foul play is certainly the hallmark of any government that makes those who are sick, disabled or elderly bear the brunt of swingeing cuts. hands off our care packages, pa system and home helps and any other support service that makes are 'lives worth living'.
hoping everyone who can will be at the march.
please all remember this is almost the last chance to tell this government in ireland that they seserve to be 'off the pitch'. "foul" play is not on. and foul play is certainly the hallmark of any government that makes those who are sick, disabled or elderly bear the brunt of swingeing cuts. hands off our care packages, pa system and home helps and any other support service that makes are 'lives worth living'.
hoping everyone who can will be at the march.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Disability Rights Demonstration | Inclusion Ireland
Disability Rights Demonstration | Inclusion Ireland
Come and join disabled people fighting for our rights! Dublin 21st November
Come and join disabled people fighting for our rights! Dublin 21st November
Saturday, October 27, 2012
The Hardest cut: welfare Law UK
My Life https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYqJtzLDE1s Disabled people speak about changes to welfare law in the UK
Police move on campaigners for “criminal acts against DWP” « Vox Political
Police move on campaigners for “criminal acts against DWP” « Vox Political
Absolutely Bloody disgraceful police behaviour. This must be challanged at top level in the UK .
Absolutely Bloody disgraceful police behaviour. This must be challanged at top level in the UK .
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Mum of mystery death girl back in hospital - National News - Independent.ie
Mum of mystery death girl back in hospital - National News - Independent.ie
Probably in a psyhiatric hospital but does not say so.
Probably in a psyhiatric hospital but does not say so.
Trial witness to be investigated - National News, Breaking News - Independent.ie
Trial witness to be investigated - National News, Breaking News - Independent.ie
A disabled child age 14 allegedly sexually abused. Trial of grandparents collapse . Northern Ireland. a complete waste of time money and Justice. A shambles. I'm gonna keep eye on investigation. what was a gp doing with her own fingers in this child's vagina!? Was she qualified for an alleged post sexual assault examination? how could she (maybe) lacerate causing bleeding and ultimate death?! (this is the theory of trial...sex assault laceration bleeding...death) . Shambles!
A disabled child age 14 allegedly sexually abused. Trial of grandparents collapse . Northern Ireland. a complete waste of time money and Justice. A shambles. I'm gonna keep eye on investigation. what was a gp doing with her own fingers in this child's vagina!? Was she qualified for an alleged post sexual assault examination? how could she (maybe) lacerate causing bleeding and ultimate death?! (this is the theory of trial...sex assault laceration bleeding...death) . Shambles!
Friday, September 21, 2012
Shame of our hospital waiting lists - Opinion, Frontpage - Herald.ie
Shame of our hospital waiting lists - Opinion, Frontpage - Herald.ie
Ireland ignores the poor. if you have insurance you get treatment. if not you die!
Ireland ignores the poor. if you have insurance you get treatment. if not you die!
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Offaly doctor discharged from hospital - RTÉ News
Offaly doctor discharged from hospital - RTÉ News
it would 'appear' that the disabled daughter was not safe with her mother. she is dead and mother having treatment.
it would 'appear' that the disabled daughter was not safe with her mother. she is dead and mother having treatment.
Members of FVID inside European Commission in Madrid » ENIL – European Network on Independent Living
Members of FVID inside European Commission in Madrid » ENIL – European Network on Independent Living
Thank you Spain...where are the Irish disabled people? Doing passive approaches rather than radical! Come on COME ON!
Thank you Spain...where are the Irish disabled people? Doing passive approaches rather than radical! Come on COME ON!
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Disabled protest over Paralympic sponsor - News - getreading - Reading Post
Disabled protest over Paralympic sponsor - News - getreading - Reading Post
ah my former colleague still active...excellent...well done merry
ah my former colleague still active...excellent...well done merry
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Black Triangle Anti-Defamation Campaign in Defence of Disability Rights
Black Triangle Anti-Defamation Campaign in Defence of Disability Rights
Great to see my friend and former colleague Merry Cross campaigning against cuts in the UK (DPAC)
Great to see my friend and former colleague Merry Cross campaigning against cuts in the UK (DPAC)
MP calls for inquiry into police protest violence
MP calls for inquiry into police protest violence
at least this didn't happen outside the Dail, Dublin. UK police took a heavy-handed 'violent' response against disabled activists/protesters. Shame on them!
at least this didn't happen outside the Dail, Dublin. UK police took a heavy-handed 'violent' response against disabled activists/protesters. Shame on them!
Here I am singing along with disabled people "we shall overcome" Mental Heatlh Cuts In Budget Are A Disgrace | Mad Pride Ireland
Mental Heatlh Cuts In Budget Are A Disgrace | Mad Pride Ireland
YES THEY ARE!
We should be raging down the streets. Don't let these guys win.
YES THEY ARE!
We should be raging down the streets. Don't let these guys win.
Symphysiotomy not barbaric- Reilly - irishhealth.com
Symphysiotomy not barbaric- Reilly - irishhealth.com
THIS is the man cutting our health services. So 'cutting' is not barbaric....this man thrives on 'cutting'...everything in sight when it comes to care of the elderly, poor and disabled persons...and YES Minister Reilly 'CUTTING' IS BARBARIC!
I love the comments on this site!
THIS is the man cutting our health services. So 'cutting' is not barbaric....this man thrives on 'cutting'...everything in sight when it comes to care of the elderly, poor and disabled persons...and YES Minister Reilly 'CUTTING' IS BARBARIC!
I love the comments on this site!
Concern on cuts to coeliac products - irishhealth.com
Concern on cuts to coeliac products - irishhealth.com
How can a KNOWN diet that is effective and prevents so much SUFFERING be cut from medical card holders? It is disgraceful
How can a KNOWN diet that is effective and prevents so much SUFFERING be cut from medical card holders? It is disgraceful
Major cuts to medical cards likely - irishhealth.com
Major cuts to medical cards likely - irishhealth.com
It is the poor who get medical cards so it is the poor who will be 'sacrificed' to save this bloody country and not a single well off, rich, middle class non-sick, non-elderly, non-disabled person is willing to scream on the poor's behalf. The country has effectively silenced it's population into a depressive-apathetic population.
It is the poor who get medical cards so it is the poor who will be 'sacrificed' to save this bloody country and not a single well off, rich, middle class non-sick, non-elderly, non-disabled person is willing to scream on the poor's behalf. The country has effectively silenced it's population into a depressive-apathetic population.
Monday, September 10, 2012
BBC News - Irish survey says lack of understanding of mental health issues
BBC News - Irish survey says lack of understanding of mental health issues
This is disgraceful and an indicator that Ireland is a hugely ignorant country. The prejudice is widespread, even consultants treat those with mental ill health or perceived 'mental heath' issues (particuarily women) as wasting their time. this causes real suffering and is a disgrace for this nation.
This is disgraceful and an indicator that Ireland is a hugely ignorant country. The prejudice is widespread, even consultants treat those with mental ill health or perceived 'mental heath' issues (particuarily women) as wasting their time. this causes real suffering and is a disgrace for this nation.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
spiritians
Why was the president meeting this order whilst the audit of abuse ongoing? The visit was before the publication of the audit this week but I wonder did the spirtians organise this to offset the report due out. Just wondering?
[oops can't seem to upload photo of president of ireland with spiritian community]
Members of the Spirtian Community from Blackrock, Co. Dublin, who visited President Michael D. Higgins in Áras an Uachtaráin recently.
PATSY MCGARRY, Religious Affairs Correspondent
A review of child safeguarding practices in the Holy Ghost congregation has found that 142 abuse allegations had been made against 47 Spiritan or Holy Ghost priests since January 1st 1975.
Eight of the priests are still alive, with three out of ministry.
Three Spiritan priests have been convicted of abuse in the courts.
The review found that that Spiritan case files made for "very sad reading", with evidence that there were serial abusers who worked in school communities in Ireland who "went undetected and unchecked giving them unmonitored access to children during the 1960s, 70s and 80s."
It also found it "reasonable to believe" that there are other victims of Spiritans who have not yet come forward. "These victims may be located in Ireland, Canada, USA, Sierra Leone and any other country where the offending priests/brothers have worked."
The review, published this morning on the Spiritan website, was conducted by the Catholic Church child protection watchdog, its National Board for Safeguarding Children (NBSC), and is one of seven published this morning.
The Spiritans run some of the best-known schools in Ireland, including Blackrock College, St Mary’s, Templeogue College and St Michael’s in Dublin, as well as Rockwell College in Co Tipperary.
The report said it was clear there was no awareness of the impact of child sexual abuse on the part of the leadership of the congregation during the time under review. "There was a failure on the part of the congregation in these instances to create safe environments for children."
It found that there were, without doubt, victims whose abuse should have been preventable. "If the provincial at the time of receiving information about concerning behaviour, and in some cases direct allegations, had taken action to remove the offending priest/brother, then it is entirely reasonable to believe that some children could have been spared. This was unacceptable, and the current leadership has to carry the responsibility for the past failures of others
[oops can't seem to upload photo of president of ireland with spiritian community]
Members of the Spirtian Community from Blackrock, Co. Dublin, who visited President Michael D. Higgins in Áras an Uachtaráin recently.
PATSY MCGARRY, Religious Affairs Correspondent
A review of child safeguarding practices in the Holy Ghost congregation has found that 142 abuse allegations had been made against 47 Spiritan or Holy Ghost priests since January 1st 1975.
Eight of the priests are still alive, with three out of ministry.
Three Spiritan priests have been convicted of abuse in the courts.
The review found that that Spiritan case files made for "very sad reading", with evidence that there were serial abusers who worked in school communities in Ireland who "went undetected and unchecked giving them unmonitored access to children during the 1960s, 70s and 80s."
It also found it "reasonable to believe" that there are other victims of Spiritans who have not yet come forward. "These victims may be located in Ireland, Canada, USA, Sierra Leone and any other country where the offending priests/brothers have worked."
The review, published this morning on the Spiritan website, was conducted by the Catholic Church child protection watchdog, its National Board for Safeguarding Children (NBSC), and is one of seven published this morning.
The Spiritans run some of the best-known schools in Ireland, including Blackrock College, St Mary’s, Templeogue College and St Michael’s in Dublin, as well as Rockwell College in Co Tipperary.
The report said it was clear there was no awareness of the impact of child sexual abuse on the part of the leadership of the congregation during the time under review. "There was a failure on the part of the congregation in these instances to create safe environments for children."
It found that there were, without doubt, victims whose abuse should have been preventable. "If the provincial at the time of receiving information about concerning behaviour, and in some cases direct allegations, had taken action to remove the offending priest/brother, then it is entirely reasonable to believe that some children could have been spared. This was unacceptable, and the current leadership has to carry the responsibility for the past failures of others
Thalidomide survivors hit out at Kenny - National News - Independent.ie
Thalidomide survivors hit out at Kenny - National News - Independent.ie
it's not good to be disabled in ireland
it's not good to be disabled in ireland
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Disabled Muslim woman's forced marriage is not valid in Britain rules judge who says she does not have ability to consent | Mail Online
Disabled Muslim woman's forced marriage is not valid in Britain rules judge who says she does not have ability to consent | Mail Online
a good judgement but i hope she is safe
a good judgement but i hope she is safe
WHO meets DoH on health budget cuts — Irish Medical Times
WHO meets DoH on health budget cuts — Irish Medical Times
Did WHO agree these cuts...what do they say now?
Did WHO agree these cuts...what do they say now?
Latest protest against cuts: Mental health campaigners have their say - The Irish Times - Sat, Sep 08, 2012
Latest protest against cuts: Mental health campaigners have their say - The Irish Times - Sat, Sep 08, 2012
Now those who experience mental ill-health are to suffer from Irish Cuts in health care
Now those who experience mental ill-health are to suffer from Irish Cuts in health care
Friday, September 7, 2012
What is going on? More confusion about cuts to home care services | Older and Bolder
What is going on? More confusion about cuts to home care services | Older and Bolder
this is awful. the government is just terrifying vulnerable people
this is awful. the government is just terrifying vulnerable people
Care staff suspended over abuse claims - UTV Live News
Care staff suspended over abuse claims - UTV Live News
Another scandal....more vulnerable lives targetted.
Another scandal....more vulnerable lives targetted.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Monday, September 3, 2012
Sunday, September 2, 2012
PAKISTAN Punjab: Muslim extremists burn alive a mentally disabled man accused of blasphemy - Asia News
PAKISTAN Punjab: Muslim extremists burn alive a mentally disabled man accused of blasphemy - Asia News
We didn't get to hear much of this case. But it is outrageous.
We didn't get to hear much of this case. But it is outrageous.
London 2012: Activist finds helpline less than helpful | Disability News Service
London 2012: Activist finds helpline less than helpful | Disability News Service
well well well still probablems about basic disability issues
well well well still probablems about basic disability issues
David Blunkett Turned Away From Paralympics Opening Ceremony... Because He Brought His Guide Dog
David Blunkett Turned Away From Paralympics Opening Ceremony... Because He Brought His Guide Dog
another instant where the paralympics can't even get BASIC awareness of disabled person's needs addressed!
another instant where the paralympics can't even get BASIC awareness of disabled person's needs addressed!
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Firth wins Paralympic gold for Ireland - RTÉ Sport
Firth wins Paralympic gold for Ireland - RTÉ Sport
great win. however the author of the piece is wrong to say she 'suffers from' intellectual disability. why do non-disabled people always assume that if you have an impairment you are 'suffering'. many disabled people suffer more from society's negative attitude, discrimination and prejudice. Bethany HAS an intellectual impairment. very simple.
great win. however the author of the piece is wrong to say she 'suffers from' intellectual disability. why do non-disabled people always assume that if you have an impairment you are 'suffering'. many disabled people suffer more from society's negative attitude, discrimination and prejudice. Bethany HAS an intellectual impairment. very simple.
Friday, August 31, 2012
British Paralympic weightlifter barred by Home Office over past conviction | Sport | The Guardian
British Paralympic weightlifter barred by Home Office over past conviction | Sport | The Guardian
i wonder how you 'prove' you've changed and repented. disgraceful
i wonder how you 'prove' you've changed and repented. disgraceful
London 2012: Disabled leader left ‘humiliated’ by opening ceremony treatment
London 2012: Disabled leader left ‘humiliated’ by opening ceremony treatment
guide dog is 'health and safety' issue at paralympics opening ceremony
JMJ ---long way to go in disability equality
guide dog is 'health and safety' issue at paralympics opening ceremony
JMJ ---long way to go in disability equality
DFI Seriously Concerned about Health Cuts - Disability Federation of Ireland
DFI Seriously Concerned about Health Cuts - Disability Federation of Ireland
will the government hear the outrage of our disability and senior citizen organisations.
will the government hear the outrage of our disability and senior citizen organisations.
Edwina Currie Accused Of Paralympic Insult, Says 'Italians Are Gorgeous, Even In Wheelchairs'
Edwina Currie Accused Of Paralympic Insult, Says 'Italians Are Gorgeous, Even In Wheelchairs'
she was always a stupid conservative mp now she's just plain stupid. nevertheless she's offended huge numbers by her insensitivity.
eggs come to mind.
she was always a stupid conservative mp now she's just plain stupid. nevertheless she's offended huge numbers by her insensitivity.
eggs come to mind.
British Thalidomide Charity Rebuffs Grunenthal Group's Apology
British Thalidomide Charity Rebuffs Grunenthal Group's Apology
not surprised....apologies after 50 years don't work!
not surprised....apologies after 50 years don't work!
BBC News - German thalidomide maker Gruenenthal issues apology
BBC News - German thalidomide maker Gruenenthal issues apology
It's taken 50 years to say something approaching apology....thats a long time to deny the obvious!
It's taken 50 years to say something approaching apology....thats a long time to deny the obvious!
Your personal message to the Taoiseach
Your personal message to the Taoiseach
Sign the petition against cuts to Home Helps and Personal Assistants for Disabled, sick and elderly of ireland.
Rise up and be counted. Do it for me, my twin and all sick and disabled people. We deserve more than this!
Sign the petition against cuts to Home Helps and Personal Assistants for Disabled, sick and elderly of ireland.
Rise up and be counted. Do it for me, my twin and all sick and disabled people. We deserve more than this!
Caring for older people - The Irish Times - Sat, Aug 18, 2012
Caring for older people - The Irish Times - Sat, Aug 18, 2012
Wish my family understood how scared I was about who will care for me and my beloved twin as we get worse in our degenerative conditions
Wish my family understood how scared I was about who will care for me and my beloved twin as we get worse in our degenerative conditions
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2012/0831/1224323382872.html?via=rel
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2012/0831/1224323382872.html?via=rel
Health Cuts in Ireland here's the link from the Irish Times
Health Cuts in Ireland here's the link from the Irish Times
Controversy over disability services - Senator claims organisations are spending too much on bosses - National News - Independent.ie
Controversy over disability services - Senator claims organisations are spending too much on bosses - National News - Independent.ie
and the government not spending anything on disabled people's and elderly care services! hypocritical in the extreme
and the government not spending anything on disabled people's and elderly care services! hypocritical in the extreme
The representative organisation of persons with disabilities in Europe - Last Minute
The representative organisation of persons with disabilities in Europe - Last Minute
Calling all computer buffs....a real challange for you. A job to create an accessible website for disabled people
Calling all computer buffs....a real challange for you. A job to create an accessible website for disabled people
HSE cuts to homecare services provoke furious reaction - The Irish Times - Fri, Aug 31, 2012
HSE cuts to homecare services provoke furious reaction - The Irish Times - Fri, Aug 31, 2012
It's not worth living in Ireland...it really isn't. Will the Irish Population get up and demonstrate on our behalf. Lets wait and see.
It's not worth living in Ireland...it really isn't. Will the Irish Population get up and demonstrate on our behalf. Lets wait and see.
Groups shocked by scale of HSE cutbacks - The Irish Times - Fri, Aug 31, 2012
Groups shocked by scale of HSE cutbacks - The Irish Times - Fri, Aug 31, 2012
This impacts on me directly. I've been trying to get more Personal Assistant hours. I can only get out of the house on thursday afternoon for 3 hours at the moment. It's bloody disgraceful that MY government doesn't give a s*** about us. We must, Must demonstrate.
This impacts on me directly. I've been trying to get more Personal Assistant hours. I can only get out of the house on thursday afternoon for 3 hours at the moment. It's bloody disgraceful that MY government doesn't give a s*** about us. We must, Must demonstrate.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Spasticus autisticus
Watching the paralympics opening ceremony was bloody brilliant. Spasticus Autisticus ...we are who we are...we are somebody. YES! Now Miranda, what say you about NORMAL people? The next time a 'normal' gets up my nose I shall say 'spasticus autisticus' ...We my twin and I (this photo) had plenty of opportunity to do that today. Would you believe it...the disabled persons adaption grant is only allowed to be used on bathrooms and door ramps. Ok this effectively means "I can get in my house and wash myself...however I cannot get into the bedroom, kitchen, cook or move around my house! That's what my twin has to fight. For some reason I was 'allowed' to use my grant on an accessible kitchen. Do you think the fact I'm 'Dr' Margaret Kennedy had anything to do with this? Yes, I do.. They wouldn't DARE tell me what to do but they shove my twin around like shit. Am I annoyed?...yes I'm 'Sparticus' ('Sparky-cursing'). Despite the paralympic...two finger salute to 'normals' tonight the reality is after this will anyone really be 'Miranda' breaking the glass ceiling. Will the book of human rights fly into the face of these faceless, gut-less...beaurocrats? Never.
The David Camerons of the world, hypocritically saying how wonderful paralympians are will not stop ATOS crucifying disabled people. He paid them billions to do so.
Here in Ireland I have never witnessed such blatant disrespect for my twin. and at times for me too. The sheer 'non-existance' of a rights perspective in Ireland is staggering. Staggering. The sheer powerlessness of sick and disabled people who endure the bossy, arrogant and quite frankly abusive attitudes of professionals of all ilks is beyond comprehension.
So my twin with be spanking clean in her new bathroom but she won't be able to cook! She cannot use her wheelchair in the kitchen. But being clean when you die of starvation is whats gauranteed.
I'd rather die as a dirty smelly disabled/sick women if I had my power and rights to decide myself how to use an adaption grant to my own home.
This is simply abuse by service providers. To be trodden on by this discriminatory bullshit cries out for justice.
I'm sorry Ann they treated you like this to day. 'spasticus autisticus', to them , you are who you are....you are somebody....where is Miranda to break the glass ceiling?
MIRANDA? where are you?
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Day care employee accused of sexual molestation | www.wftv.com
Day care employee accused of sexual molestation | www.wftv.com
abuse of learning disabled child and young adult.
alleged abuser not arrested...hmmm...that figures...learning disabled people don't get justice. period!
abuse of learning disabled child and young adult.
alleged abuser not arrested...hmmm...that figures...learning disabled people don't get justice. period!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Friday, July 13, 2012
Video: Kane Gorny inquest: family 'devastated by number of missed opportunities' - Telegraph
Video: Kane Gorny inquest: family 'devastated by number of missed opportunities' - Telegraph
so you are distressed, ill and become aggressive and they sedate you, put you in a side room and let you die. is that not manslaughter...at least!
so you are distressed, ill and become aggressive and they sedate you, put you in a side room and let you die. is that not manslaughter...at least!
Monday, May 7, 2012
UK's Sarah Ferguson on trial in Turkey for alleged undercover filming of orphanages - Yahoo! OMG! CA
UK's Sarah Ferguson on trial in Turkey for alleged undercover filming of orphanages - Yahoo! OMG! CA
so is turkey going to take testimony from children apparently tied to their beds? interesting!
so is turkey going to take testimony from children apparently tied to their beds? interesting!
Major delay in assessing disabled children - The Irish Times - Mon, May 07, 2012
Major delay in assessing disabled children - The Irish Times - Mon, May 07, 2012
this is bloody disgraceful. how are disabled children to get on with their lives without n appraisal of their needs? how are parents to support these children if assessments are not done which obviously means the 'needs' are not met as they have not been identified.
it strikes me this is deliberate. don't do the assessments 'cos then don't have to pay for services...
this is bloody disgraceful. how are disabled children to get on with their lives without n appraisal of their needs? how are parents to support these children if assessments are not done which obviously means the 'needs' are not met as they have not been identified.
it strikes me this is deliberate. don't do the assessments 'cos then don't have to pay for services...
Monday, April 9, 2012
NHS accused of letting patients with learning disabilities die without consulting their families | Mail Online
NHS accused of letting patients with learning disabilities die without consulting their families | Mail Online
74 people with learning disability considered not worth 'treating'. We are in the year 2012 and it looks like the Nazi era mentality not yet gone! this is disgraceful in an apparent 'cibilised' and 'modern' society.
74 people with learning disability considered not worth 'treating'. We are in the year 2012 and it looks like the Nazi era mentality not yet gone! this is disgraceful in an apparent 'cibilised' and 'modern' society.
Two teachers caught taunting disabled boy, 10, as 'gross' and 'disgusting' after his mother bugged his wheelchair with recording device | Mail Online
Two teachers caught taunting disabled boy, 10, as 'gross' and 'disgusting' after his mother bugged his wheelchair with recording device | Mail Online
Well done Mum. There are lengths you have to go to protect disabled children from abuse!
Disabled children are three times more likely to be abused than a non-disabled child.
Support Disabled children. Act Fast, Act Furious!
Well done Mum. There are lengths you have to go to protect disabled children from abuse!
Disabled children are three times more likely to be abused than a non-disabled child.
Support Disabled children. Act Fast, Act Furious!
Friday, April 6, 2012
Thousands of incidents and near misses at CUH and Tallaght last year - The Medical Independent
Thousands of incidents and near misses at CUH and Tallaght last year - The Medical Independent
We the public who may need to be an inpatient deserve to know the detail of these incidents and near misses. What does it mean...medication incidents? Wrong dose given, overdose given, wrong medication given? What does it mean Radiation incidents? over-exposure to radiation, not enough radiation for cancer treatment? etc,
Its time we, the public in Ireland began to take a real interest in the safety and provision of hospital/medical care in this country.
We the public who may need to be an inpatient deserve to know the detail of these incidents and near misses. What does it mean...medication incidents? Wrong dose given, overdose given, wrong medication given? What does it mean Radiation incidents? over-exposure to radiation, not enough radiation for cancer treatment? etc,
Its time we, the public in Ireland began to take a real interest in the safety and provision of hospital/medical care in this country.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Amnesty asks: Should cute people have quicker access to hospitals?
Amnesty asks: Should cute people have quicker access to hospitals?
Isn't it amazing that Amnesty has to fight for medical equality!
From fighting toture in horrible regimes it now tackles torture of the 'undeserving' sick and disabled. Thats the poor people! Or those who , in the German nazi regime described as 'untermenschen' the 'subhuman. Disabled people. because we cost alot of money. better they kill us all by stealth. a two tier private/public divide
Isn't it amazing that Amnesty has to fight for medical equality!
From fighting toture in horrible regimes it now tackles torture of the 'undeserving' sick and disabled. Thats the poor people! Or those who , in the German nazi regime described as 'untermenschen' the 'subhuman. Disabled people. because we cost alot of money. better they kill us all by stealth. a two tier private/public divide
Call for changes in use of electro-convulsive therapy
Call for changes in use of electro-convulsive therapy
barbaric practice still forced on patients here in ireland.
barbaric practice still forced on patients here in ireland.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Banana-land (Ireland)
There is no doubt about it my decision to return to the land of my birth is gonna kill me! Or at least shorten my life by ten years.
This has been an 'eye-opener' week. all health ...
monday I go to the endocrinologist in big general hospital, big reputation, specialist bla bla bla. I wasn't referred by my gp who had had my thyroid in his care up till now, but by a neurologist who felt this big shot very specialist specialist could unravel the complexities of my neuro-endocrine system.
Well obviously no-one read the consultants letter because i was allocated an appointment with another doctor, and waited a good 6 months for monday's appointment. Not knowing the name of the 'whizz-kid' endocrinologist I thought this was him. More later. So I trot off in a taxi to the big medical castle in the sky and paid 75e to taxi man. See it was a mega journey. I set off at 2.30pm - took an hour to get there, took seat, was called an hour later to see registrar. Only to be told a) my thyroid could be 'looked after' by my gp and b) they had no blood tests so better go get them. I said they were done by my GP and told him results. This is normal, your gp can look after your thyroid. It was now 4.30pm. I got home at 7.30 by public transport as I wasn't going to pay 75e home.
I had sort of forgotten I was supposed to see whizz-kid, but thought that was Doctor Smith (pseudonym) name on my opd letter. Well yes, I could see him if it would make me happy! A comment by a male doctor that this feminist woman took extreme exception to. That actually translates "you neurotic woman have nothing wrong with you but you can see the consultant who will make you happy".
I told the reg that at this precise moment NOTHING makes me happy, I have parkinson's, I have cancer (awaiting radiotherapy) and I've just paid 75e out of my disability pension to come to his hospital to be told my gp can look after my thyroid, and they'd do blood tests that have already been done, and the consultant would 'make me happy'.
Today I find out that Mr Smith was NOT the consultant whizz-kid I'd been referred to by neuroconsultant, no, whizz-kidd was Mr Brown (pseudonym) .
So had I seen Mr Smith it would not have helped because it was Mr Brown I was supposed to see. Mr Smith of course could have made me 'happy', but in fact Mr Brown might have made me better! But I never got to see Mr Brown, in any case I had no idea what Mr Brown was supposed to be doing. And since I hadn't been told it was Mr Brown I was supposed to see anyway, I could not have helped the situation anyway. But I didn't get to see Mr Smith who would make me happy either, so I was neither happy or better...was I?
This all happens of course because I'm a public patient. How do I know? Because I was told the reason I'd see Mr Smith and not Mr Brown (though as I've said, I never even saw Mr Smith), was because they 'parcel you out' .
Neat little package that I am this clinic plays pass the parcel and when the music stops I land in any consultants, registrars, or house doctors lap. In other words when the music stops you might either live or die depending on whose lap you've landed in ...when the music stopped. Provided of course they 'unwrap the parcel' to look see what needs to be done.
That was Monday. Today is wednesday.
Twino and I are off for our botox injections in the beauty parlour of the 'castle in the sky' aka this fab big fancy specialist hospital. Botox for twino means injections in her neck to stop it twisting in agonising contortions due to dystonia (look it up!) , I have botox in leg to stop my foot twisting in agonizing contortions so I can actually walk (of a fashion).
Botox Consultant didn'nt want to hear about debackle of Mr Smith or Mr Brown on Monday (though it was she who sent me there) because she had to concentrate on the botox so she didn't paralyse either twino in neck or me in foot. Fair enough, I don't want paralaysis, shut up, yes, good idea. After botox and with now no danger of paralysis she STILL did not want to hear about Mr Smith or Mr Brown because all of a sudden she has chest pain, and was not well herself. So for God's sake shut up or you'll give your consultant a heart attack. Better get out before we are paralysed or doc has heart attack.
Drive home. Decide to phone about when my radiotherapy might start. Secretary to radio-oncologist had said St Lukes had my papers, or rather Dr Radio-oncologist was dealing with this. So ring St Lukes, no, no idea who you are, not on system. Well, funny this. I saw Dr Radio-oncologist who buys his suits in Mullingar, by the way, two weeks ago. He told me if I went private I'd start radiotherapy Tuesday after easter. If I went public, St Lukes, I'd start a few weeks later. Reassuring me the extra wait won't decrease my life chances (how does he know?) . I was opting for St Lukes because living in the country a daily trip for radiotherapy for 5 weeks and with Parkinson's was likely to knacker me! Whereas in St Lukes I could stop over in 'The Lodge' monday-Friday.
So don't worry says the breast clinic nurse the public sector operates JUST THE SAME as the private sector, for sure if it didn't would'nt that be unethical. Well, yes it would, but it's NOT THE SAME AS THE PRIVATE sector.
Right now no-one knows who I am! Let alone has marked me in blue indelible ink for the zaps zappedy zaps I'm waiting for.
I won't be starting radiotherapy tuesday after Easter because a) I've gone public, b) I live in the country c) because I got Parkinson's (and can't cope with daily journeys) and d) because there is no residential unit in the Private sector hospital e) no one yet knows I exist!
So in effect this week has taught me
1) Mr Smith was Not Mr Brown
2) I am a 'parcel'
3) My neuro consultant might have a heart attack if I stress her
4) Public services is NOT the same as private so nurse don't tell me it is
5) I don't exist.
Yep, I'm gonna die in this country - Welcome Home to Banana - Land
This has been an 'eye-opener' week. all health ...
monday I go to the endocrinologist in big general hospital, big reputation, specialist bla bla bla. I wasn't referred by my gp who had had my thyroid in his care up till now, but by a neurologist who felt this big shot very specialist specialist could unravel the complexities of my neuro-endocrine system.
Well obviously no-one read the consultants letter because i was allocated an appointment with another doctor, and waited a good 6 months for monday's appointment. Not knowing the name of the 'whizz-kid' endocrinologist I thought this was him. More later. So I trot off in a taxi to the big medical castle in the sky and paid 75e to taxi man. See it was a mega journey. I set off at 2.30pm - took an hour to get there, took seat, was called an hour later to see registrar. Only to be told a) my thyroid could be 'looked after' by my gp and b) they had no blood tests so better go get them. I said they were done by my GP and told him results. This is normal, your gp can look after your thyroid. It was now 4.30pm. I got home at 7.30 by public transport as I wasn't going to pay 75e home.
I had sort of forgotten I was supposed to see whizz-kid, but thought that was Doctor Smith (pseudonym) name on my opd letter. Well yes, I could see him if it would make me happy! A comment by a male doctor that this feminist woman took extreme exception to. That actually translates "you neurotic woman have nothing wrong with you but you can see the consultant who will make you happy".
I told the reg that at this precise moment NOTHING makes me happy, I have parkinson's, I have cancer (awaiting radiotherapy) and I've just paid 75e out of my disability pension to come to his hospital to be told my gp can look after my thyroid, and they'd do blood tests that have already been done, and the consultant would 'make me happy'.
Today I find out that Mr Smith was NOT the consultant whizz-kid I'd been referred to by neuroconsultant, no, whizz-kidd was Mr Brown (pseudonym) .
So had I seen Mr Smith it would not have helped because it was Mr Brown I was supposed to see. Mr Smith of course could have made me 'happy', but in fact Mr Brown might have made me better! But I never got to see Mr Brown, in any case I had no idea what Mr Brown was supposed to be doing. And since I hadn't been told it was Mr Brown I was supposed to see anyway, I could not have helped the situation anyway. But I didn't get to see Mr Smith who would make me happy either, so I was neither happy or better...was I?
This all happens of course because I'm a public patient. How do I know? Because I was told the reason I'd see Mr Smith and not Mr Brown (though as I've said, I never even saw Mr Smith), was because they 'parcel you out' .
Neat little package that I am this clinic plays pass the parcel and when the music stops I land in any consultants, registrars, or house doctors lap. In other words when the music stops you might either live or die depending on whose lap you've landed in ...when the music stopped. Provided of course they 'unwrap the parcel' to look see what needs to be done.
That was Monday. Today is wednesday.
Twino and I are off for our botox injections in the beauty parlour of the 'castle in the sky' aka this fab big fancy specialist hospital. Botox for twino means injections in her neck to stop it twisting in agonising contortions due to dystonia (look it up!) , I have botox in leg to stop my foot twisting in agonizing contortions so I can actually walk (of a fashion).
Botox Consultant didn'nt want to hear about debackle of Mr Smith or Mr Brown on Monday (though it was she who sent me there) because she had to concentrate on the botox so she didn't paralyse either twino in neck or me in foot. Fair enough, I don't want paralaysis, shut up, yes, good idea. After botox and with now no danger of paralysis she STILL did not want to hear about Mr Smith or Mr Brown because all of a sudden she has chest pain, and was not well herself. So for God's sake shut up or you'll give your consultant a heart attack. Better get out before we are paralysed or doc has heart attack.
Drive home. Decide to phone about when my radiotherapy might start. Secretary to radio-oncologist had said St Lukes had my papers, or rather Dr Radio-oncologist was dealing with this. So ring St Lukes, no, no idea who you are, not on system. Well, funny this. I saw Dr Radio-oncologist who buys his suits in Mullingar, by the way, two weeks ago. He told me if I went private I'd start radiotherapy Tuesday after easter. If I went public, St Lukes, I'd start a few weeks later. Reassuring me the extra wait won't decrease my life chances (how does he know?) . I was opting for St Lukes because living in the country a daily trip for radiotherapy for 5 weeks and with Parkinson's was likely to knacker me! Whereas in St Lukes I could stop over in 'The Lodge' monday-Friday.
So don't worry says the breast clinic nurse the public sector operates JUST THE SAME as the private sector, for sure if it didn't would'nt that be unethical. Well, yes it would, but it's NOT THE SAME AS THE PRIVATE sector.
Right now no-one knows who I am! Let alone has marked me in blue indelible ink for the zaps zappedy zaps I'm waiting for.
I won't be starting radiotherapy tuesday after Easter because a) I've gone public, b) I live in the country c) because I got Parkinson's (and can't cope with daily journeys) and d) because there is no residential unit in the Private sector hospital e) no one yet knows I exist!
So in effect this week has taught me
1) Mr Smith was Not Mr Brown
2) I am a 'parcel'
3) My neuro consultant might have a heart attack if I stress her
4) Public services is NOT the same as private so nurse don't tell me it is
5) I don't exist.
Yep, I'm gonna die in this country - Welcome Home to Banana - Land
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Help Victims Carry Their Cross and Pray for Church: Join Us Good Friday At Steps of Cathedral
Help Victims Carry Their Cross and Pray for Church: Join Us Good Friday At Steps of Cathedral
it looks well meaning but what the hell does it mean "to help victims carry their cross"? It's not like this cross leads to salvation/resurrection as Jesus cross did!
Lets not get too biblical here. Child sexual abuse is NOT a salvation story.
it looks well meaning but what the hell does it mean "to help victims carry their cross"? It's not like this cross leads to salvation/resurrection as Jesus cross did!
Lets not get too biblical here. Child sexual abuse is NOT a salvation story.
BBC News - Disabled sailor Geoff Holt MBE barred from train
BBC News - Disabled sailor Geoff Holt MBE barred from train
A reader replied that this behaviour by the guard was 'poor training' not prejudice! I ask you. If it had been a racist slur would we be calling it 'poor training'?
this is what it means to be disabled. Ordinary people who just want to get from A to B are denied by prejudice. inhumanity and denial of human rights. what made that guard believe the train FLOOR was more important than Geoff Holt? until prejudice against disabled people is seen for what it is we will never overcome the hurdles Myself and other disabled people endure on a daily basis.
This behaviour is scandalous.
A reader replied that this behaviour by the guard was 'poor training' not prejudice! I ask you. If it had been a racist slur would we be calling it 'poor training'?
this is what it means to be disabled. Ordinary people who just want to get from A to B are denied by prejudice. inhumanity and denial of human rights. what made that guard believe the train FLOOR was more important than Geoff Holt? until prejudice against disabled people is seen for what it is we will never overcome the hurdles Myself and other disabled people endure on a daily basis.
This behaviour is scandalous.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Sunday, April 1, 2012
bullying is nasty...life-threatening and utterly wrong
says it all. can this world ever develop a thing called 'empathy' .
inclusive education - sick joke!
Anything wrong with this picture? Well yes, there is! The huge insensitivity, cruelty and mindlessness of the teacher. This is called 'inclusive education'! no it's abuse, neglect and seriously damaging to the mind of a disabled child.
Neurological care in Ireland – wasting away - The Medical Independent
Neurological care in Ireland – wasting away - The Medical Independent
this article is dated 2010 , not sure if there has been any developments but i doubt it. can the general population not THINK about anything other than cancer!
i feel able to argue this as both a cancer patient and one suffering a neurological disorder. for my cancer care here in ireland has been par to what i'd get anywhere in the uk, for example. not so my neurology care! nor for my twin, also with neurological dificulties. this service, headed by a wonderful professor is totally shackled by government ineptitude, uninterest, and downright rejection, neglect and inattention to human rights.
it's time we neurology patients 'rolled up' (in our wheelchairs) to demand a better service.
this article is dated 2010 , not sure if there has been any developments but i doubt it. can the general population not THINK about anything other than cancer!
i feel able to argue this as both a cancer patient and one suffering a neurological disorder. for my cancer care here in ireland has been par to what i'd get anywhere in the uk, for example. not so my neurology care! nor for my twin, also with neurological dificulties. this service, headed by a wonderful professor is totally shackled by government ineptitude, uninterest, and downright rejection, neglect and inattention to human rights.
it's time we neurology patients 'rolled up' (in our wheelchairs) to demand a better service.
Monday, March 19, 2012
The Chinese boy who has lived his whole life in a cage - Telegraph
The Chinese boy who has lived his whole life in a cage - Telegraph
there are still many issues we need to be so outraged about we scream from the highest mountain
there are still many issues we need to be so outraged about we scream from the highest mountain
Friday, March 16, 2012
National Surveys of Public Attitudes to Disability in Ireland
National Surveys of Public Attitudes to Disability in Ireland
must try to get a read of this. concentration poor at the moment. if anyone reads please post comments here.
must try to get a read of this. concentration poor at the moment. if anyone reads please post comments here.
Disabled people face unlimited unpaid work or cuts in benefit - the documents | Politics | guardian.co.uk
Disabled people face unlimited unpaid work or cuts in benefit - the documents | Politics | guardian.co.uk
UK becoming a horrible place to live for disabled people. why not just euthanase us all. this makes me soooooo mad!
UK becoming a horrible place to live for disabled people. why not just euthanase us all. this makes me soooooo mad!
Disabled people have come so far – don't undo all the progress
Disabled people have come so far – don't undo all the progress
ireland is way behind too. we disabled people may need to shout louder
ireland is way behind too. we disabled people may need to shout louder
'Ashley treatment' on the rise amid concerns from disability rights groups | Society | guardian.co.uk
'Ashley treatment' on the rise amid concerns from disability rights groups | Society | guardian.co.uk
i am totally against this huge intrusion on a body which is not necessary.
i am totally against this huge intrusion on a body which is not necessary.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Laptop denied to disabled student - RTÉ News
Laptop denied to disabled student - RTÉ News
another irish disabled discrimination case. last week a boy with cerebral palsy denied permission to bring a dog to school. the dog has been trained to stop him falling .
pathetic beaurocracy that impinges on disabled children's rights.
disgraceful
another irish disabled discrimination case. last week a boy with cerebral palsy denied permission to bring a dog to school. the dog has been trained to stop him falling .
pathetic beaurocracy that impinges on disabled children's rights.
disgraceful
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Different responses to different dieases!
No competition but questions - yes!
On Monday I have surgery for early stage breast cancer. It is all very scary and I’m dreading the hassle of it all, plus the radiotherapy that will follow. The disruption to my life is foremost in my mind, not whether I will live or die.
The reactions of those around me have been consideration, support and concern. I know people are trying to balance the emotional "Oh my God!" with the "you’ll be OK", the former suggests gloom and doom, the latter a pragmatic positive-ness. Not easy when the word ‘CANCER’ bellows in your mind with connotations and visions of death and the coffin!
At first I could not grasp that I should tell people I had cancer and even asked the breast care nurse "do I tell people I have cancer", and this because I’d been told my cancer was very early stage, so I was hoping the label didn’t really belong. The nurse ever so clearly answered "your diagnosis is breast cancer". Ah! OK, very clear. The hospital nurses are truly skilled and professional and listening to them you feel utterly confident you will prosper post op and not need to make one’s will or buy the coffin…just yet. Even if you did, I suspect their exceptional skill would get you through that one too.
I do NOT feel as if I’m going to die, nor anywhere near it. As a good friend now undergoing radiotherapy puts it "I don’t have cancer, it was removed", which is still doing the rounds in my head. I’ve had lovely cards and emails from friends, and flowers from my dearest friend Noel. The local cancer support group have been amazing. Immediate support. A visit from someone, a support worker allocated, a counsellor, which I’m now availing of. And a taxi service to take me to hospital appointments. I can, if I want to, go to yoga classes, craft mornings, foot massage, and a whole array of things designed to put me into a peaceful state…
So all in all, I can’t really complain at all with this road I’m on at least for now, I feel quite safe.
Contrast this to my previous ‘bad news’ event. Being told I had Parkinson’s half way through my PhD research. I was diagnosed in London, in the famous London neuro hospital. My consultant had the dry demeanour I came to love. The nicest, nicest man who told me my cross cocker spaniel-poodle was not a ‘proper dog’. I asked if he had a dog, "yes", he said "A Jack Russell" - he calls a Jack Russell a ‘proper’ dog, clearly his neuro skill is better than his canine skills!
On par with the cancer care nurses in Ireland this guy can impart devastating news with velvet gloves. But unlike my cancer diagnosis, the Parkinson’s diagnosis completely floored me. I cried, I was shocked, I was utterly depressed. Unable to work, (I was self-employed), which necessitated a lot of travel around the UK, carrying cases and staying every week in a different hotel. I retired at age 54. I am now 59. I completed successfully my PhD…and wibbly-wobbled across the Barbican Theatre Stage, London, to receive it in November 2009.
Now I truly loved my work and immediately plummeted from an annual income of circa 25k to 30k down to benefits only. Not only this I had to sell my home as there were 59 stairs to my front door with no lifts. I returned to Ireland, my home, after 42 years in the UK. (was I completely mad?)
Even in the UK there was little support following the parky diagnosis. Yes there was a group I could join. A fearful thought thinking I’d see people much worse off as Parkinson’s is a progressive disease. I did. But it wasn’t as scary as I thought. What was worse was seeing ‘worst case scenario’ on my second visit to the consultant. A writhing and spasm and jerking I’d never seen before which catapulted me into hysterics. Since then I never go to an outpatient appointment without my friend Anne - a stalwart of sense, well she would be, she’s a barrister!
Parkinson’s is progressive and incurable. Cancer can be progressive but CAN be cured. Parkinson’s affects all aspects of living. For me this means, walking difficulties, falls; I broke an elbow a couple of years ago, only to fall three weeks after and re-break it again! Crushing fatigue where even taking a bath seems an ordeal, bowels that simply don‘t work, bladder which occasionally fails to shut the gates , concentration, and diminished focus on doing required task, planning, motivation, memory and organising ANYTHING is a simple nightmare. This is called ‘executive dysfunction’. It’s not funny. Neither of course is the static bowel or ‘gate not shut’ bladder or "please miss, can I go back to bed" at 11am in the morning!
As I do not drive, I rely on my little mobility scooter ‘molly’ to get out and about. But she is not allowed on the DART or buses because she isn’t actually ‘little’. In rain, hail or snow I’m housebound. The required motorised wheelchair (no longer acceptable to call it an electric wheelchair - wonder why?) which can go on the DART and buses has not been provided because I’m to get a shed built to house it. Only the builder allocated that task declined the job as he, his words exactly "wasn’t interested" , "too messy", when challenged about not ‘being interested’ to provide a brick shed so that a disabled person could get a wheelchair, he put the phone down on me. Nice one!
Here in Ireland, trying to get help to simply get out of my house has been very difficult. I’m told I’m ‘lucky’ (by the Parkinson’s Disease Nurse on the parky helpline) that I have a personal assistant paid for by the HSE and supplied by the Irish wheelchair association (which latter organisation has to raise funds for what the HSE doesn‘t pay, I.e. approx a third of my PA costs - in fact the personal assistant organiser is about to jump out of a plane to provide my service. Certainly beyond the call of duty I would have thought. Parachutes for us all, sponsor cards still available).
I’m LUCKY to get out of my home for three hours a week, apparently many don’t get out at all. And there’s no outcry about this. That’s why I’m ‘lucky’.
I don’t have a Parkinson’s nurse locally to call on, I don’t have a parky group to join, I don’t get free taxi’s to see consultants in Dublin, and I don’t have a parky counsellor. There is an exercise programme in Rathfarnham but as I don’t drive and there is no HSE transport, I cannot get there. So in lieu of that the physio gave me a photographic chart of the exercises I’m supposed to do. But with executive dysfunction these I cannot focus to do. In fact Bank, bills and so forth don’t get tackled either.
So what am I trying to say? Well it’s a question really, why do I as a cancer patient get 100% more support, care and services than I do as a parky person? Which condition is more debilitating and frustrating for me? Answer: The Parkinson’s, by a long shot, at least at this point in time.
Yet the CANCER ‘label’ drives a more pro-active, positive, caring and supportive public than does saying I have Parkinson’s disease. It’s more emotive as people immediately think of ones imminent demise, despite the fact many cancers are curable, and the death sentence not as statistically ominous as it used to be.
I am not saying Cancer patients shouldn’t get this level of support, of course they should…there is no point having a ‘competition’ over which condition is the more serious. What I am saying is, if you truly knew how Parkinson’s affects all aspects of your daily living maybe you would be doing more for people with Parkinson’s, or with other neurological disorders.
After all, once I’ve had my cancer operation, once the radiotherapy is over, in all likelihood that medical issue will be ‘fixed’, not so my Parkinson’s, and it would be good if I could find yoga, reflexology, support group, on going support person, and counselling for THAT!
I am grateful for the neighbours and the local Greystones Cancer support group’s kindness, what stumps me is why was I not offered the same level of support after my parky diagnosis? And why people virtually ignore what it is like to know your brain is slowly going down the swanny, taking your body with it?
Dr Margaret Kennedy
1.3.2012
On Monday I have surgery for early stage breast cancer. It is all very scary and I’m dreading the hassle of it all, plus the radiotherapy that will follow. The disruption to my life is foremost in my mind, not whether I will live or die.
The reactions of those around me have been consideration, support and concern. I know people are trying to balance the emotional "Oh my God!" with the "you’ll be OK", the former suggests gloom and doom, the latter a pragmatic positive-ness. Not easy when the word ‘CANCER’ bellows in your mind with connotations and visions of death and the coffin!
At first I could not grasp that I should tell people I had cancer and even asked the breast care nurse "do I tell people I have cancer", and this because I’d been told my cancer was very early stage, so I was hoping the label didn’t really belong. The nurse ever so clearly answered "your diagnosis is breast cancer". Ah! OK, very clear. The hospital nurses are truly skilled and professional and listening to them you feel utterly confident you will prosper post op and not need to make one’s will or buy the coffin…just yet. Even if you did, I suspect their exceptional skill would get you through that one too.
I do NOT feel as if I’m going to die, nor anywhere near it. As a good friend now undergoing radiotherapy puts it "I don’t have cancer, it was removed", which is still doing the rounds in my head. I’ve had lovely cards and emails from friends, and flowers from my dearest friend Noel. The local cancer support group have been amazing. Immediate support. A visit from someone, a support worker allocated, a counsellor, which I’m now availing of. And a taxi service to take me to hospital appointments. I can, if I want to, go to yoga classes, craft mornings, foot massage, and a whole array of things designed to put me into a peaceful state…
So all in all, I can’t really complain at all with this road I’m on at least for now, I feel quite safe.
Contrast this to my previous ‘bad news’ event. Being told I had Parkinson’s half way through my PhD research. I was diagnosed in London, in the famous London neuro hospital. My consultant had the dry demeanour I came to love. The nicest, nicest man who told me my cross cocker spaniel-poodle was not a ‘proper dog’. I asked if he had a dog, "yes", he said "A Jack Russell" - he calls a Jack Russell a ‘proper’ dog, clearly his neuro skill is better than his canine skills!
On par with the cancer care nurses in Ireland this guy can impart devastating news with velvet gloves. But unlike my cancer diagnosis, the Parkinson’s diagnosis completely floored me. I cried, I was shocked, I was utterly depressed. Unable to work, (I was self-employed), which necessitated a lot of travel around the UK, carrying cases and staying every week in a different hotel. I retired at age 54. I am now 59. I completed successfully my PhD…and wibbly-wobbled across the Barbican Theatre Stage, London, to receive it in November 2009.
Now I truly loved my work and immediately plummeted from an annual income of circa 25k to 30k down to benefits only. Not only this I had to sell my home as there were 59 stairs to my front door with no lifts. I returned to Ireland, my home, after 42 years in the UK. (was I completely mad?)
Even in the UK there was little support following the parky diagnosis. Yes there was a group I could join. A fearful thought thinking I’d see people much worse off as Parkinson’s is a progressive disease. I did. But it wasn’t as scary as I thought. What was worse was seeing ‘worst case scenario’ on my second visit to the consultant. A writhing and spasm and jerking I’d never seen before which catapulted me into hysterics. Since then I never go to an outpatient appointment without my friend Anne - a stalwart of sense, well she would be, she’s a barrister!
Parkinson’s is progressive and incurable. Cancer can be progressive but CAN be cured. Parkinson’s affects all aspects of living. For me this means, walking difficulties, falls; I broke an elbow a couple of years ago, only to fall three weeks after and re-break it again! Crushing fatigue where even taking a bath seems an ordeal, bowels that simply don‘t work, bladder which occasionally fails to shut the gates , concentration, and diminished focus on doing required task, planning, motivation, memory and organising ANYTHING is a simple nightmare. This is called ‘executive dysfunction’. It’s not funny. Neither of course is the static bowel or ‘gate not shut’ bladder or "please miss, can I go back to bed" at 11am in the morning!
As I do not drive, I rely on my little mobility scooter ‘molly’ to get out and about. But she is not allowed on the DART or buses because she isn’t actually ‘little’. In rain, hail or snow I’m housebound. The required motorised wheelchair (no longer acceptable to call it an electric wheelchair - wonder why?) which can go on the DART and buses has not been provided because I’m to get a shed built to house it. Only the builder allocated that task declined the job as he, his words exactly "wasn’t interested" , "too messy", when challenged about not ‘being interested’ to provide a brick shed so that a disabled person could get a wheelchair, he put the phone down on me. Nice one!
Here in Ireland, trying to get help to simply get out of my house has been very difficult. I’m told I’m ‘lucky’ (by the Parkinson’s Disease Nurse on the parky helpline) that I have a personal assistant paid for by the HSE and supplied by the Irish wheelchair association (which latter organisation has to raise funds for what the HSE doesn‘t pay, I.e. approx a third of my PA costs - in fact the personal assistant organiser is about to jump out of a plane to provide my service. Certainly beyond the call of duty I would have thought. Parachutes for us all, sponsor cards still available).
I’m LUCKY to get out of my home for three hours a week, apparently many don’t get out at all. And there’s no outcry about this. That’s why I’m ‘lucky’.
I don’t have a Parkinson’s nurse locally to call on, I don’t have a parky group to join, I don’t get free taxi’s to see consultants in Dublin, and I don’t have a parky counsellor. There is an exercise programme in Rathfarnham but as I don’t drive and there is no HSE transport, I cannot get there. So in lieu of that the physio gave me a photographic chart of the exercises I’m supposed to do. But with executive dysfunction these I cannot focus to do. In fact Bank, bills and so forth don’t get tackled either.
So what am I trying to say? Well it’s a question really, why do I as a cancer patient get 100% more support, care and services than I do as a parky person? Which condition is more debilitating and frustrating for me? Answer: The Parkinson’s, by a long shot, at least at this point in time.
Yet the CANCER ‘label’ drives a more pro-active, positive, caring and supportive public than does saying I have Parkinson’s disease. It’s more emotive as people immediately think of ones imminent demise, despite the fact many cancers are curable, and the death sentence not as statistically ominous as it used to be.
I am not saying Cancer patients shouldn’t get this level of support, of course they should…there is no point having a ‘competition’ over which condition is the more serious. What I am saying is, if you truly knew how Parkinson’s affects all aspects of your daily living maybe you would be doing more for people with Parkinson’s, or with other neurological disorders.
After all, once I’ve had my cancer operation, once the radiotherapy is over, in all likelihood that medical issue will be ‘fixed’, not so my Parkinson’s, and it would be good if I could find yoga, reflexology, support group, on going support person, and counselling for THAT!
I am grateful for the neighbours and the local Greystones Cancer support group’s kindness, what stumps me is why was I not offered the same level of support after my parky diagnosis? And why people virtually ignore what it is like to know your brain is slowly going down the swanny, taking your body with it?
Dr Margaret Kennedy
1.3.2012
Friday, January 20, 2012
restaurants and gluten free bread
Value for money: Gluten-free bread
why should our cafe, restaurants, bistros and all food outlets be ALLOWED to dscriminate against the 'gluten free brigade'.
the high level of the population needing gluten-free diets is rising. people with neurological disorders seem to benefit from a gluten-free diet, not just coeliacs. if your health and life is compromised by non-gluten-free food outlets then you are being put in danger by these places.
there are human rights laws - some i seem to remember give a right to life, quality of life, to choose, to associate etc. if you have to stay at home then you are in fact imprisoned.
that cannot be right!
gluten-free people demand all food outlets to not exclude them.
why should our cafe, restaurants, bistros and all food outlets be ALLOWED to dscriminate against the 'gluten free brigade'.
the high level of the population needing gluten-free diets is rising. people with neurological disorders seem to benefit from a gluten-free diet, not just coeliacs. if your health and life is compromised by non-gluten-free food outlets then you are being put in danger by these places.
there are human rights laws - some i seem to remember give a right to life, quality of life, to choose, to associate etc. if you have to stay at home then you are in fact imprisoned.
that cannot be right!
gluten-free people demand all food outlets to not exclude them.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
how to get a Home Help service
a) tell the doc to say in his letter you need to be dressed (you don't)
b) tell the doc to say in his letter you can't put your shoes on (you can)
c) tell the doc to say in his letter you need someone to cook your breakfast (you don't)
This is called 'creative assessments' , just like 'creative accounting' , you'll need that to keep all your benefits too.
In other words disabled and sick people are forced to be liars, manipulative and devious. Just to stay alive.
Then of course if you're found out you are a fraudster, bogus, scrounger...not a disabled/ill/old person not coping on meagre benefits and no support services.
So the system is not really a social CARE system, it's a social EVIL system. Evil to arrange it that disabled/ill/old person should have to grovel, lie, scrounge, feel guilt, humiliation, afraid, and suicidal because they NEED to get all they can just to feel 'life is worth living'.
Evil that we have to constantly be forced to be under the scrutiny of this so-called 'social care' system.
why not put us all in gaol, as frauds, scroungers, liars.
b) tell the doc to say in his letter you can't put your shoes on (you can)
c) tell the doc to say in his letter you need someone to cook your breakfast (you don't)
This is called 'creative assessments' , just like 'creative accounting' , you'll need that to keep all your benefits too.
In other words disabled and sick people are forced to be liars, manipulative and devious. Just to stay alive.
Then of course if you're found out you are a fraudster, bogus, scrounger...not a disabled/ill/old person not coping on meagre benefits and no support services.
So the system is not really a social CARE system, it's a social EVIL system. Evil to arrange it that disabled/ill/old person should have to grovel, lie, scrounge, feel guilt, humiliation, afraid, and suicidal because they NEED to get all they can just to feel 'life is worth living'.
Evil that we have to constantly be forced to be under the scrutiny of this so-called 'social care' system.
why not put us all in gaol, as frauds, scroungers, liars.
Pots and Pans
This is a new one on me! home helps feel 'abused' if they have to wash the pots and pans...yep. The Home help organiser said to me yesterday "some people abuse the Home Help service...they leave all the pots and pans for the home help to clean".
the Home help service was once a really good service. When they employed CLEANERS. They would clean, yes clean when you could not. Now however they have become 'tidy-uppers' because under health and safety rules they cannot lift anything e.g. a chair, push a sofa, or clean behind a cupboard.
hence what you really get is a dust.
now they want Home Helps to be 'carers' , not cleaners because you know CLEANING, real CLEANING is so humiliating a job. So in Ireland the services are going to be only for those needing help to get dressed, bathed, and a meal cooked.
You can live in squalor but they'll get you out of bed sort of thing.
So who is going to do the cleaning (not that much of that gets done...'dust') well I guess the little old woman or man will do their best, reach for a broken cup off the floor, fall over, break their hip, smash their head and die of pneumonia in hospital. Therafter pronounced on death cert cause of death 'pneumonia', not 'withdrawal of home help service'.
So will you live longer if you need to be bathed, and dressed and put in your wheelchair. yep, probably, only snag ...you'll live in squalor to the bitter end.
Nice thought.
the Home help service was once a really good service. When they employed CLEANERS. They would clean, yes clean when you could not. Now however they have become 'tidy-uppers' because under health and safety rules they cannot lift anything e.g. a chair, push a sofa, or clean behind a cupboard.
hence what you really get is a dust.
now they want Home Helps to be 'carers' , not cleaners because you know CLEANING, real CLEANING is so humiliating a job. So in Ireland the services are going to be only for those needing help to get dressed, bathed, and a meal cooked.
You can live in squalor but they'll get you out of bed sort of thing.
So who is going to do the cleaning (not that much of that gets done...'dust') well I guess the little old woman or man will do their best, reach for a broken cup off the floor, fall over, break their hip, smash their head and die of pneumonia in hospital. Therafter pronounced on death cert cause of death 'pneumonia', not 'withdrawal of home help service'.
So will you live longer if you need to be bathed, and dressed and put in your wheelchair. yep, probably, only snag ...you'll live in squalor to the bitter end.
Nice thought.
Monday, January 9, 2012
'feelings'
I may be a bitchy bitchy disabled woman ....at times...but I do hold very dear my FEELINGS. In other words they are my OWN. No one can tell me how to FEEL. They may tell me how to 'behave', i.e. lower my tone, shut up, and they might be right to do so...but what is in my heart, is in my heart. ...
Now why would I be going on like this? ADVICE. Sometimes other people's advice about how one should FEEL is really only someone trying to order you about, have power over you, or deny you.
So that is why I got so annoyed about being told I was 'lucky' to have a PA for 3 hours per week, because that person wanted me to FEEL grateful. So she was advising on how I should FEEL. No one should do that to anyone.
On my facebook page someone has posted some words of stephen hawkings who is giving HIS advice on feeling. This time it's about 'regret'. don't 'regret' what your disability won't let you do, rejoice in what you can do...' Yeh well Stephen, either I've not 'progressed' in my 'disability' identity i.e accepted it, or I'm a complete failure.
I DO regret, I do regret, I do regret. Those feelings are mine and no-one can tell me NOT to regret.
I have a neurological PROGRESSIVE condition. I ain't going to get better. I rejoice I can see, I can ride my scooter, I can watch TV...but I regret very much the loss of my job, the loss of my income, the loss of my home in London (sold 'cos of the 56 steps up to it - no lift) .
I may lose alot over the next months, years but one thing I ain't going to lose....thats my right to feel feelings. I will FEEL whatever I feel. Rage, anger, regret, sadness, happiness, love. I will however endeavour to cull all bad 'behaviour' that might ensue, e.g I won't hit anyone, scream at anyone (as best I can) or speak ill of anyone.
I will challange anyone, anything, law, process, beaurocracy, that creates those feelings I should not have to carry. Gratitude being one! resignation another, capitualation, submission, lucky,
Get my drift?
Do-gooders give advice on feelings...
Real people, good professionals, hear them, listen, and write it down in their notes as genuine.
if I feel angry, I AM angry,
if I regret , I regret
If I don't feel 'lucky' , I don't feel lucky
etc.
So Stephen and the Parkinson's nurse. Walk a mile in my mocassins before opening your mouth. Or should I say 'wheel a mile in my wheelchair...?' (Oh Stephen probably has....but he's not ME, so HIS feelings about regret, are his, don't foist them on me)
Now why would I be going on like this? ADVICE. Sometimes other people's advice about how one should FEEL is really only someone trying to order you about, have power over you, or deny you.
So that is why I got so annoyed about being told I was 'lucky' to have a PA for 3 hours per week, because that person wanted me to FEEL grateful. So she was advising on how I should FEEL. No one should do that to anyone.
On my facebook page someone has posted some words of stephen hawkings who is giving HIS advice on feeling. This time it's about 'regret'. don't 'regret' what your disability won't let you do, rejoice in what you can do...' Yeh well Stephen, either I've not 'progressed' in my 'disability' identity i.e accepted it, or I'm a complete failure.
I DO regret, I do regret, I do regret. Those feelings are mine and no-one can tell me NOT to regret.
I have a neurological PROGRESSIVE condition. I ain't going to get better. I rejoice I can see, I can ride my scooter, I can watch TV...but I regret very much the loss of my job, the loss of my income, the loss of my home in London (sold 'cos of the 56 steps up to it - no lift) .
I may lose alot over the next months, years but one thing I ain't going to lose....thats my right to feel feelings. I will FEEL whatever I feel. Rage, anger, regret, sadness, happiness, love. I will however endeavour to cull all bad 'behaviour' that might ensue, e.g I won't hit anyone, scream at anyone (as best I can) or speak ill of anyone.
I will challange anyone, anything, law, process, beaurocracy, that creates those feelings I should not have to carry. Gratitude being one! resignation another, capitualation, submission, lucky,
Get my drift?
Do-gooders give advice on feelings...
Real people, good professionals, hear them, listen, and write it down in their notes as genuine.
if I feel angry, I AM angry,
if I regret , I regret
If I don't feel 'lucky' , I don't feel lucky
etc.
So Stephen and the Parkinson's nurse. Walk a mile in my mocassins before opening your mouth. Or should I say 'wheel a mile in my wheelchair...?' (Oh Stephen probably has....but he's not ME, so HIS feelings about regret, are his, don't foist them on me)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)