For those Wheelchair Tango Foxtrot moments
WTF month notes: September 2023
September 2023 brought with it a whirlwind of experiences, challenges, and significant milestones. As I sit down to reflect on the past month, I can’t help but marvel at the journey I’ve been on, both professionally and personally. So, let me take you through my September, sharing the moments that touched my heart, pushed my boundaries, and taught me life lessons.
The Impact of My New Personal Assistant
One of the most significant changes in my life recently has been the addition of my incredible personal assistant. Her unique experience working with CEOs with ADHD has given her a profound understanding of the challenges I face.
The difference she’s made in my life is immeasurable. She’s my memory, my organizational anchor, and my partner in navigating a world filled with deadlines and responsibilities. Her support has opened up new possibilities and allowed me to focus on what I do best — creating high-quality products and services that make a difference in people’s lives.
Joining the NHS England Accessibility Working Group
A commitment to accessibility has always been at the heart of my professional journey. This month, I had the privilege of joining the NHS England Accessibility Working Group, a collective dedicated to improving the accessibility of digital products. It’s a cause that aligns with my values and vision for a more inclusive digital world. Together, we’re working on creating solutions that ensure no one is left behind, especially those with diverse accessibility needs.
A Trip to Leeds — From Chaos to Last-Minute Triumph
A trip to Leeds became both a trial by fire and a triumphant display of adaptability. I was invited to give a lightning talk on following the agile lifecycle to choose and purchase a wheelchair, based on my forthcoming blog WTF moments: the 5 stages of buying an electric wheelchair.
As fate would have it, a series of unexpected IT problems threw our presentation into chaos. I found myself frantically racing against the clock, finishing my presentation just minutes before I was due to present. A digital equivalent of the chase across London to get Hugh Grant to stop Julia Roberts leaving in Four Weddings and a Funeral. Whichever screenwriter was up there creating the dramatic tension, thanks for giving me the ‘triumphs over adversity’ trope rather than the comic failure!
It could be a depressing subject and I didn’t shy away from some of the emotions that go with such a purchase. I was glad my humour kept a touch of amusement in the air as I presented. After all, Before Chair (BC) I had to lie down for hours just to prepare for a meal with friends. After Chair (AC) I have energy to enjoy my work and my social life, without hours or days recovery. Next month I’m going to Oktoberfest!
However, the stress and rush took a toll on my health, causing a flare-up of my fibromyalgia symptoms. My PA and the friend I was staying with went above and beyond to look after me as I battled the fatigue and nausea. It was a stark reminder that sometimes, life throws curveballs when you least expect it. Even AC, I still have to be mindful and plan for the unexpected. The experience reminded me of the importance of pacing and the support of an incredible team.
Shrewsbury’s Inaugural Pride Event
September ended with an extraordinary celebration of love, acceptance, and unity as I proudly joined a weekend of celebrations for Shrewsbury’s first-ever Pride event.
I marched (wheeled) alongside an unlikely ally — my 75-year-old mother. With rainbow flags in hand and hearts full of support, we (sat) stood together to show solidarity for our LGBTQIA+ friends and the wider community. It was a moment of connection, a testament to the power of love transcending generations, and a reminder that we are all in this together.
