Sally's World

Thank you for your e-mails and comments on the ‘be careful what you wish for blog.’ Mostly people were supportive of what I said, but one or two people either disagreed or misunderstood me. This is fine of course; I don’t expect everyone to agree with me, I just am giving my own opinion. In fact, I’d worry if everyone agreed; it’s certainly not what I’m used to indoors!



I would just like to clarify two things:

Firstly, I do not think that a child has to be a wheelchair user to qualify for any special needs services. Not at all, many of the special needs children I know are not wheelchair users. I am fully aware of the huge array of special needs that do not affect mobility. So I can assure you this is not what I meant at all. All families who have children with any kind of special needs are entitled to all the services available.

Secondly, no, I didn’t literally mean that any parent who claims to have a special needs child when they don’t deserves a disabled child. I also don’t think having a disabled child should have such negative connotations either; I believe we should be grateful for all our children and recognise their perfection regardless of special needs. And once again, it’s not about the parents it’s about the child. I merely meant that people should be grateful that they have healthy families and don’t have to worry about hospital appointments/physiotherapy/occupational therapy/speech therapy/feeding clinics/incontinence clinics/wheelchair clinics/child psychology/dieticians/adaptations/equipment and everything else that goes along with special needs. I think that many parents don’t understand the implications of special needs, and as rewarding as it is, it certainly turns your life upside down.

My point was, none of us, when we are pregnant sit there and pray for a disabled child, we may say we’d like a boy or a girl, but I’ve never heard anyone hope or wish for cerebral palsy or autism. The reality is we adore all our children regardless, but healthy, happy babies are what we wish for.



So, yes, all families need help, yes there may be many issues with pensions, benefits, housing and services in general. But it is an undeniable fact that not everyone is honest, and this has a big impact on the benefits and services that are available.

But I’m glad you asked… It is interesting to see how differently people feel,or what they get out of the blogs I write. and I will always clarify anything I have said.

So keep e-mailing and giving your comments,

Take care,

Sal xxx