17 November 2009 Trailblazer heads out on disability awareness tour
Northern Ireland Trailblazer Michaela Hollywood has set out on a regional road show of primary schools to promote awareness of disability and difference in society.
The road show still has no name, so any suggestions are welcome
Michaela has been working with children aged 4 through to 14 and she reports that they are responding well to her talk and the questions that they ask are as entertaining and sensible as they come.
An early favourite for the audience seems to be when pupils get the chance to operate the lights and horn on Michaela's wheelchair, with the faces of the children lighting up when she shows them how tall and small her wheelchair can become.
Michaela says she is "thrilled" with the progress the road show has had so far and added:
All the head teachers have been really receptive. It's great to be able to see the children listen to every word, and by the end of a ten-minute chat they all agree to say hello to somebody they see in a wheelchair.
They are completely amazed when I tell them that I can run and dance just like they can, but in my wheelchair. I hope that this will help change the attitude of society in years to come.
Michaela now hopes to get to show off her decorated wheelchair before Christmas to more children and share her ideas and experiences with others.
You must be logged in to comment. You can join now by registering your details.