20 Years Living with a Disability: Amelia’s Reflections on Life After a Spinal Injury
This week marks 20 years since our co-founder Amelia’s quad bike accident. A life changing collision which caused a spinal injury and permanent paralysis from her waist down. What began as a terrifying moment has shaped two decades of resilience, perspective and purpose. To honour this anniversary, Amelia has written a letter to anyone just beginning life with disability, sharing the truths she wish she'd known - that no one tells you at the start.
From me, to you ❤️
They tell you about what you’ve lost, what you won’t get back and everything will never be the same. They tell you everything you won’t do again, won’t see or be again and everything you’re going to miss.
What they don’t tell you is that you’re about to learn who your true friends are really fast or that people and places that aren’t meant for you will take a thousand less hours to go. They don’t tell you you’re learning skills that will directly support a better, happier future. They don’t tell you it’s going to get better, which it is.
They don’t tell you you’re going to become a master in your own medicine, that hospitals will become second nature and your understanding of the importance of health will be razor sharp. Something some take decades to realise.
They don’t tell you that you won’t ever need a gratitude journal because you’re going to be a walking one! Every step a privilege, every belly laugh like gold and every happy day the best.
They don’t tell you your disability will become part of you, like long legs or dimples in your cheeks. One that doesn’t define or change who you are inside but that helps prioritise everything that matters. They don’t tell you anything good is coming, but they should.
Finding your way after a life changing diagnosis or injury is hardcore, it alters everything in you and around you but it’s not going to be the end. If the last 20 years have taught me anything, it’s just the beginning. Keep going, ask for help but don't ever give up. ♥️
Amelia xx
Two decades on, Amelia’s story is proof that while disability changes your life, it doesn’t end it. It reshapes it. It redefines resilience, joy and what truly matters. To anyone at the start of their journey - hold on. There are brighter days, stronger connections and unexpected joys ahead. You’ve got this, and you’re never alone.
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