advertorial let ’ s talk
2017 International Day of People with Disability ( IDPwD ) Patron , Dylan Alcott , is a passionate advocate for starting a national conversation about disability .
The Paralympian champion and three-time gold medallist wants to use his time as Patron to get people talking .
“ It ’ s ok to have a disability so let ’ s talk about it ,” Dylan says . Dylan is a passionate speaker trying to alter and change the way people perceive disability . Born with a tumour wrapped around his spinal cord , Dylan survived a threeyear battle to live and has been achieving ever since . He is now one of Australia ’ s most successful and well recognised Paralympians .
“ Growing up with a disability I have experienced self-doubt and low expectations of what I could achieve . My turning point was challenging my own perceptions and not letting my disability get in the way . Today as a successful Paralympian I am proud to say I am living my dream and am passionate about helping others achieve theirs ,” he says .
“ Do you know that one in five Australians has a disability and would you believe that disability still seems to be a topic that no one wants to talk about ?” asks Dylan .
The silence and lack of conversation on the topic of disability spurs Dylan to talk about it every opportunity he gets . “ I want to encourage everyone to be more aware , understanding and accepting of people with disability during their everyday lives . Therefore I invite you to start the conversation , educate your friends and empower them to break down the barriers and help remove the stigma .”
In April 2017 , Dylan announced the launch of Get Skilled Access , a training organisation born out of real life experiences faced by Australians with disability and accessibility challenges in interacting with governments and major businesses . Dylan is also well advanced with his plans to establish the Dylan Alcott Foundation , a charitable foundation with the core purpose of helping young Australians with disabilities gain self-respect and self-esteem through sport and other pursuits and opportunities .
This year is the 25th anniversary of the United Nations sanctioned International Day of People with Disability . The day celebrates progress in breaking down barriers , opening doors , and realising an inclusive society for all .
Disability organisations , businesses , governments and the community come together at events across the country on and around December 3 to mark the occasion and celebrate the achievements of people with disability .
As part of IDPwD , the Government also recognises and appreciates those who have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of people with disability , and those who are making a real difference in the lives of others , through the National Disability Awards .
Growing up with a disability I have experienced self-doubt and low expectations of what I could achieve . My turning point was challenging my own perceptions and not letting my disability get in the way .
This year the Awards and IDPwD fall on December 3 . To find out more about the National Disability Awards or International Day of People with Disability go to idpwd . com . au linkonline . com . au idpwd
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