AAC Awareness Month: Different Voice, Same Message

Living with cerebral palsy and a speech impairment, I’ve learned that being heard isn’t always as simple as having something to say. It’s about understanding, empathy, education, and becoming less assumptive. You can have a voice, but if people aren’t listening, or they’re looking for someone else to speak for you, it doesn’t mean much.

That’s where AAC, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication, and now AI-Voice, comes in. For me and many others, AAC isn’t a nice extra. It’s how we communicate, how we connect. How we’re understood, and sometimes how we make friends and combat loneliness.

What AAC Looks Like for Me

I started with an old Lightwriter device years ago. It was bulky and slow, and most conversations had already moved on before I’d finished typing. I used it less and less, not because I didn’t want to communicate, but because it made me feel like I was always trying to catch up.
Things are different now. Technology has moved on, and so have I. I use modern AAC and AI-Voice tools daily, including text-to-speech software, which helps me give talks in schools and to organisations, and interact with people confidently. Whether I’m answering a pre-recorded question at an inspirational talk or simply ordering some lunch, it gives me the chance to speak on my own terms.

It’s About Communication, Not Gadgets

AAC isn’t one-size-fits-all. It could be a phone app, a tablet, a symbol board, or something high-tech, like AI-Voice. Whatever it looks like, it’s about communication, pure and simple. The way someone expresses themselves might be different, but the message is the same: we all want to be heard, understood, included, and respected.
It’s not about making assumptions. It’s about slowing down and giving someone time to speak in a way that works for them.

School Visits and Breaking the Ice

When I visit schools, the children are often curious about how I speak. I use AAC and AI-Voice to share my story, and once they see how it works, the questions start, and that’s brilliant. Children are open, honest, and keen to understand. That’s the beauty of it.
In schools, I don’t just talk about disability. I talk about acceptance, kindness, and how everyone communicates differently. I show them that AAC or AI-Voice isn’t something to feel awkward about; it’s just another way of speaking. By the end of the session, the focus moves away from the technology and onto the stories, the learning, and the genuine connection.

Inspirational Speaking: Changing Perceptions Beyond the Classroom

Outside of schools, I also speak at events, conferences, and organisations, anywhere where people need to understand disability, accessibility, identity, and what genuine inclusion looks like. It’s all about the power of storytelling and opening minds through my lived experiences.
When I speak to professionals, carers, parents, or decision-makers, I use the same AAC and AI-Voice technology, but the message is tailored. It’s about raising expectations, not just of disabled people, but of the systems around us. It’s about making people reflect on how they communicate, who they include, and who gets left out of the conversation.
I speak honestly about what it’s like to live with cerebral palsy and speech impairment, not to be inspirational for the sake of it, but to show what’s possible when support, collaboration, understanding, and opportunity come together.
Whether I’m speaking to five-year-olds or frontline staff, I’m there to challenge assumptions, get people thinking, and prove, through action, that disabled voices belong at every table.

Getting AAC Support

Getting access to AAC and AI-Voice in the UK isn’t always straightforward. Services are stretched, and sometimes it takes a bit of patience to get the right support in place. But when it’s there, it makes a huge difference. It can be life-changing.

AAC or AI-Voice doesn’t replace speech, even if someone is nonverbal; it opens up communication in whatever way works best. It’s not about replacing anything. It’s about including people properly.

During AAC Awareness Month, Let’s Remember:
• Communication comes in many forms.
• Everyone deserves to be heard, in their own way.
• Taking a bit of extra time to listen makes a big difference.
• There’s no shame in using support; it’s about equitable access.

Final Thought

AAC and AI-Voice have given me the tools to speak clearly, confidently, and independently. It’s more than a device; it’s my voice, and it’s beginning to open up opportunities I would have never imagined undertaking years ago.
Every voice deserves to be heard. Every voice matters.
P.S. - If you want to explore my journey using AAC in more detail, download my eBook, Empowering Communication. It’s a personal and practical guide for parents, professionals, and anyone supporting AAC and AI-Voice users.

Download the eBook here - https://amzn.to/4gOmq3e .

Cover Reveal: Cerebral Palsy & Me, Second Edition

I’ve been sitting on this for quite some time, and it’s finally time to share it.

The second edition of Cerebral Palsy & Me is scheduled for release on October 6 2025, which also happens to be World Cerebral Palsy Day. Couldn’t have planned it better if I tried.

But before I tell you more about what’s inside, here it is, the brand new cover:

Cerebral palsy and me cover - This is the latest version og Gavon Cliftons Autobiography

What’s new inside

This isn’t just a quick reprint. I’ve added a new chapter, The Journey Continues: Life After Publishing, where I write about what changed once the first edition was out there. Having strangers read it and getting the reaction, feedback, comments, love, and reviews that I’ve received so far has been nothing short of overwhelming, allowing my self-acceptance journey to meander in life-changing directions. My confidence has grown significantly, and even though I still overthink and have moments of internalised ableism, I am much more resilient and advocacy-driven now than I was before chronicling my life story.

I discuss transitioning to become a solo self-published author and an inspirational speaker, and how finally falling in love with assistive technology has changed the way I communicate. I also write about being judged before I’ve said a word, about trying to carve out independence when your needs don’t always fit the mold, and about the moment people finally stop speaking on your behalf and actually listen with no judgment.

Why 6 October

World Cerebral Palsy Day isn’t just a date on the calendar. For me, it’s a chance to remind people that life with cerebral palsy isn’t all plain sailing, it’s a mix of the ordinary and the unexpected, it’s about co-independence most of the time, the tears, fears and the challenges and the small wins that don’t often get talked about.

Too often, the way disability is told feels limited, sometimes captioned as hard-luck or cheer-up versions that miss the middle ground. Neither really tells the truth. This book sits somewhere in the middle, straightforward, unfiltered, and splattered with humour. Publishing the new edition on 6 October 2025 portrays the right way to tie my story to a day that’s about visibility and change. It’s about educating others about disability and acceptance from lived experience, making a difference along the way.

It also keeps the conversation moving. Change doesn’t come overnight, but every time we speak up, every time we put our stories out there, the picture gets a bit clearer, opening the idea of creating a more accessible and inclusive world for everyone someday. Releasing Cerebral Palsy & Me, Second Edition, on World Cerebral Palsy Day is my way of taking part in that and hopefully giving others a nudge to do the same.

Looking ahead

Cerebral Palsy & Me, Second Edition will be available in paperback and Kindle on 6 October 2025.

If you read the first edition, thank you for walking alongside me. If this is your first time, welcome. This is my story, told in an unfiltered narrative, with humour and honesty that have carried me this far, and also into the future.

What readers said about the first edition

“Inspiring, thought-provoking, humorous and heartfelt. Had me laughing and feeling pensive in equal measures.” – Verified Amazon reviewer

“Humbling and insightful. Informative and emotive, lightened by humour. A true Welsh warrior.” – Amanda Aubrey-Burden

“An honest account that educates as much as it inspires. A must-read for anyone wanting to better understand disability and ableism.” – Lis

A small ask

Please share the second edition of Cerebral Palsy and Me on World Cerebral Palsy Day. Stories carry further when they’re passed on, and the more people read and hear them, the harder they are to ignore.

AAC and AI-Voice: Why They’re Shaping the Future of Communication

Communication is often taken for granted until it’s not there. For me, living with cerebral palsy and a severe speech impairment, the difference between being listened to and being overlooked these days is simple: Augmentative and Alternative Communication and advancing AI-voice technology.
They aren’t devices or luxuries. They are assistive technology that upholds our dignity and are the key to being part of conversations that shape our lives.

Although my relationship with AAC hasn’t always been plain sailing and I’ve had a love-hate connection with it over the years, it’s now clear that with assistive technology improving in accessibility, it is enriching my daily life and helping me educate others about disability and acceptance.

My Voice, On My Terms

Without AAC, my words are often second-guessed. People jump in, finish my sentences, or answer on my behalf. With my SmartBox TalkPad 8, I take back control. I tap, I speak, I’m heard.
AI-voice goes further. Instead of sounding like a machine, I can have a voice that carries personality, warmth, and identity. That’s not a small upgrade, that’s self-expression.

Why This Matters Beyond Me

AAC and AI-voice aren’t just about giving individuals tools. They change how society understands communication:

Every voice counts: Communication is not limited to spoken words. AAC shows that ideas, humour, and leadership can come through many channels.
Education and opportunity: In classrooms, AAC allows disabled students to answer, ask, and lead. It builds confidence and inclusion from day one.
Workplaces and public life: AAC breaks down barriers to employment, advocacy, and representation. When disabled people have tools to communicate, they contribute fully, not partially.
Changing attitudes: The more AAC and AI-voice are seen, the more they normalise difference. People learn that speech is not the only measure of intelligence.

What Needs to Happen Next

If AAC and AI-voice are to truly shape the future of communication, they must stop being treated as add-ons. That means:

Investment in access – Every child and adult who needs AAC should get it quickly, without long waits or endless assessments.
Training and awareness – Schools, organisations, workplaces, and communities must understand how to engage with AAC users.
Personalisation – AI-voice should give people the chance to sound like themselves, not a one-size-fits-all machine.
Representation – AAC users should be visible in classrooms, on stages, in the media, in politics. We need to hear these voices.

The Future We Deserve

The future of communication isn’t about technology replacing human voices. It’s about expanding what we mean by ‘voice’ in the first place. AAC and AI-voice carry the potential to make society listen more widely, more fairly, and more humanely.
For me, these tools are the difference between silence and leadership. For the next generation, they can be the difference between being spoken over and being truly heard.
But this future won’t build itself. Access to AAC and AI-voice must be recognised as a right, not a privilege. That means:

Grassroots action: Share these conversations, challenge old attitudes, and normalise AAC use in everyday life. The more visible it is, the harder it becomes to ignore.
Policy change: Push for better funding, quicker assessments, and personalised tech through the NHS, schools, hospitality, retail, and workplaces. Delays and one-size-fits-all approaches leave people voiceless.

This is a campaign that needs both individual voices and collective pressure. I’m asking you to stand with me, speak out about it, write about it, raise it in classrooms, offices, and communities. At the same time, call on leaders, educators, and policymakers to make AAC and AI-voice accessible for everyone who needs them.
Together, we can create a society that listens properly, one where no voice is left out of the conversation.

Why I’m Learning to Stop Apologising for My Disability

For years, I apologised for existing differently, moving slowly, being misunderstood, and holding people up, even for a few seconds. No one ever asked me to say sorry; it became a habit, an instinct formed from years of feeling like I was the inconvenience. It took me a long time to understand what the social model of disability explains so clearly: I am not the problem. My cerebral palsy and speech impairment aren’t barriers, an inaccessible society is, with its stairs instead of ramps, impatience instead of understanding, and systems built for everyone but me.

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The Invisible Weight of ‘Sorry'

Living with cerebral palsy and speech impairment makes you more aware of how the world reacts to you. A raised eyebrow when I take a little longer. A sigh in a queue. The awkward glance at my AAC device before I can even get my first words out.
I absorbed the message that disability equals inconvenience. My inner monologue was a loop of:
• Sorry for taking longer.
• Sorry for needing help with this bit.
• Sorry for making you uncomfortable.

I am starting to realise that carrying that is exhausting. It’s not just physical effort; it chips away at your confidence and sense of belonging.

The Turning Point

Writing my autobiography and my blogs has begun to help me to face a truth I’d been dodging; I wasn’t fully accepting myself yet.
• Some days, I feel proud and unshakable.
• Other days, one ignorant comment can undo hours of effort and leave me questioning my place in the world, but I remind myself that my value doesn’t shrink because of someone else’s discomfort. Each time I keep speaking up, I reclaim a little more confidence.

I realised that I didn’t create the barriers that make life harder. Society did.

I’m not the reason a building doesn’t have a ramp.
I’m not the reason someone avoids eye contact instead of talking to me.
My cerebral palsy isn’t the problem. The problem is the world is expecting me to apologise for its lack of inclusion.

Breaking this habit hasn’t happened overnight. Years of apologising don’t vanish instantly, but I’ve started to notice small changes in how I carry myself. Here’s what’s helping me take back that confidence.
Learning to Live Without Constant Apologies

I’m still working on this. Full self-acceptance is a journey, not a milestone. But I’ve started taking small steps:

Taking up space without guilt
a. If I move slower, speak slower, or need extra time, that’s life. I’m not a nuisance for existing on my terms.
Answering with honesty, not shame
a.If someone asks about my disability, I tell them directly.
Saving apologies for real mistakes
a. I’ll say sorry if I run over your foot with Scoot. Oops.
b. I won’t apologise for needing more time to speak or for asking for reasonable adjustments.

The Work in Progress

I’d love to say I never feel that old instinct to apologise. But I do. Some days, I feel like that young version of me who wanted to blend in, to not be noticed.
The difference now is awareness. I pause before every ‘sorry’ and ask: Do I really need to apologise, or is this just habit?
With each day, I notice the change, even a small step towards progress. I hold my head a little higher. I advocate for myself with less hesitation. I replace guilt with quiet pride, even if I’m not 100% there yet.
Final thought: Living unapologetically with a disability isn’t about being loud or defiant. It’s about recognising your right to exist without shrinking yourself to make others comfortable.
I’m not fully there yet, but every time I choose pride over apology, I take another step towards that freedom and happiness and step out from behind the mask of impostor syndrome and internal ableism.
Remember, accepting your disabilities will take as long as it needs to. It’s okay to be different, accept yourself as you are, and accept others too.

‘I’m learning that my existence isn’t an apology. The world needs to adapt, not me.’

National Share A Story Month – Why Stories Matter

May marks National Share a Story Month, a time to celebrate the transformative power of storytelling, especially for young people. Instead of just praising the influence of books, let's explore the profound impact of stories on our lives.

Author Gavin Clifton, sits in front of a colelction of his books — Gavin Clifton, Author sits in front of his books

They show us we matter.

Growing up with cerebral palsy and a severe speech impediment, I rarely, if ever, saw characters like me in books. The heroes could run, speak clearly, climb mountains, fly rockets, and do all sorts of things that felt impossible for someone like me. When you're disabled, you don't always get to move or speak the way others do, and stories rarely show that. So, I started to believe that people like me weren’t meant to be the main character or the hero. That belief doesn’t go away easily. It sticks with you.
That’s why I write the way I do now, unfiltered, honest, sometimes cheeky, and to make a difference. Stories aren’t just entertainment. They’re validation. They acknowledge your experiences, they understand your struggles, and they affirm that your version of the world also belongs on the page.

What Sharing a Story Really Means

This month isn’t just about reading a story aloud. It’s about:
● Sharing lived experiences, not filtered ones.
● Letting children with disabilities see themselves as the main character not only encourages a sense of belonging and self-worth but it also boosts their self-esteem and confidence.
● Giving parents the confidence to talk openly about differences and disability is crucial. They play a significant role in shaping their children's perspectives and attitudes towards diversity and inclusion.
● Encouraging schools to invite disabled authors, rather than just talking about disability, is a step toward a more inclusive and diverse education system. It's about learning from those who have lived experiences, not just theoretical knowledge.
It’s about creating space for stories that challenge, educate, and connect.

Why I Keep Writing

I don’t write to be inspiring. I write because I want to educate the world about disability, acceptance, accessibility, and inclusion. Every time a child picks up Max and the Magic Wish or Paddy the Polar Bear Teddy and sees differences, I know I’m doing something right. I’m
not softening the truth, I’m making it easier to talk about not only within underrepresented communities, but beyond them.
Kids ask brilliant questions, and I love that they have the audacity and vulnerability to do so. They don’t dance around awkward topics. Adults could learn from that.

This Month, Share More Than Just a Story

● Share your truth.
● Share your challenges.
● Share your imperfections.
● Share what inclusion actually looks like.
● Share disabled voices – not just in May, but always.
Let’s raise kids who read stories that reflect the real world. Not some perfect, polished version. A world where everyone, regardless of ability, gets to be the hero, the explorer, the dreamer. The successor.
And to all the disabled kids out there who’ve never seen themselves in a book: You matter. Your story matters. And it deserves to be told.

Gavin Clifton

The Disabled Writer

What I Wish People Knew About Living With Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. It can be frustrating, and it's a lifelong journey. You might see a wheelchair or an unsteady walk, or notice a speech difference, and that’s as far as it goes. But living with cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex experience that goes beyond a diagnosis or a visible limp.
So here’s what I wish people understood. Not in a sympathy-seeking way. Just honestly.

It’s a lifelong condition, not an illness.

Unlike some other conditions, cerebral palsy is not progressive, meaning it does not get worse over time. It results from brain damage, usually before, during, or shortly after birth, and affects a person's movement, muscle tone, and posture.
I was born breech, not breathing, and left without oxygen for too long. That’s all it took. No two people with CP are the same; how it affects your body depends on the area and severity of the brain damage.
There are three main types:
● Spastic CP – stiff, tight muscles
● Ataxic CP – poor coordination and balance
● Dyskinetic CP – involuntary movements and fluctuating muscle tone
Some people have one type, and some have a mix like mine. There’s no upgrade, no fix. It’s a lifelong condition. We learn to adapt, not recover.

It affects your body in ways you don’t expect.

You’re not just dealing with mobility issues. There’s:
● Muscle stiffness that worsens in cold weather
● Pain from tight joints and spasms
● Fatigue that kicks in quicker than you’d think
● Communication difficulties (mine comes with a severe speech impediment)
● Extra diagnoses – epilepsy, cleft palate, poor coordination – many of us get a few ‘add-ons’

For me, right-side tightness makes walking harder as I get older. I’ve taken more falls in winter than I care to count, broken bones, bruised pride, the lot. It affects what I wear, where I go, even what time I leave the house. You don’t think about that when you hear 'CP.' But I live it daily.

Yes, it affects mental health too.

Imagine trying your hardest at something; your body just won’t do it. Or walking into a room and being judged for how you move or talk. It chips away at your confidence. Not always because of the CP itself, but because of how society reacts to it.
People sometimes talk over me. They ask my friends about me instead of speaking to me directly . Some assume I don’t understand or can’t reply. That’s not just annoying, it’s dehumanising.
I’ve had moments of anger, anxiety, and self-doubt. But here’s the thing, they’re not because I’m disabled. They’re because I live in a world not built for people like me.

Stop assuming you know what help I need.

I understand the impulse to help, and I appreciate it. But helping without asking first can sometimes do more harm than good. For instance, someone once grabbed me by the arm to 'help' me cross the road, even though the traffic had stopped and I had it under control . That sudden grab? It's not helpful. It's just scary. So, the next time you want to assist, just ask first.
You want to be kind? Great. Just ask, “Do you need a hand?” If I say no, respect that. If I say yes, excellent. It’s not rocket science.

My Final word

Cerebral palsy is part of me. It always will be. It affects how I walk, how I speak, how I move, and how I live. But it doesn’t define my intelligence, aspirations, or value. I can be stubborn, cheeky, witty, outspoken, and talented like anyone else.

So, next time you see someone with CP, don’t stare, don’t assume, and don’t talk to the person with them instead. Just treat them as you would anyone else. Offer your help if you think they might need it, but always ask first. And remember, they are not their condition. They have their own unique personality, interests, and talents. Acknowledge these aspects of their identity when you interact with them.
That’s all we want; to be treated like people.

I discuss all of the above in more detail in my autobiography, Cerebral Palsy And Me, which you can order here: www.thedisabledwriter.co.uk/books/

Please stop infantilising the likes of other disabled people and me.

I am an author, songwriter and disability blogger with two published children's books, a self-published autobiography about my life experiences living with cerebral palsy, and an ebook that shares practical advice, emotional support and encouragement to guide parents of disabled children facing similar challenges my family and I have been through. My first one is a children's book about disability and acceptance called Max And The Magic Wish, an Amazon bestseller. I'm also a lyricist and have co-written songs for The Korgis (a hitmaking 80s band best known for songs like Everybody's Got To Learn Sometime and If I Had You). Phantom Of The Opera star Peter Karrie, The Royal Marine's Forces Sweetheart Kirsten Orsborn, and a Christmas song with 91,000 listens on Spotify. I have achieved all of this independently, through my own efforts. I am not a child, so please do not treat me like one.

I returned from a holiday in Spain, visiting Benidorm with a friend. After three years of restrictions and lockdowns, it was lovely to have a breakaway, and I thoroughly enjoyed our holiday. But, whilst I was out and about, exploring, partying and having a good time. I noticed something happening, which repeatedly made me very anxious and upset.

For instance, I was once at a restaurant, and the waiter asked my friend what I wanted to order, assuming I couldn't communicate my choice. This kind of behaviour is not only disrespectful but also undermines my independence and autonomy. I felt like I was being ignored, even bypassed, when interacting and conversing with other holiday-makers. I have cerebral palsy and a speech impediment. Because of this, I became increasingly aware that some people would speak to my friend about something they wanted to know about me or ask them a question on my behalf as if they thought or implied I wasn't able to or educated enough to reply. I don't know if I'm older and wiser now; that is why I am noticing this happening more and more. Now, I am progressing into my, let's say, 'limelight years'. I am becoming more confident in my skin, and I now have enough life experience that I do want to answer any difficult questions about my disabilities that people want to know.

I get curious people who want to ask questions about my disabilities. I love that people care and are interested enough to ask because this is how they learn how different disabilities affect different people. Then they understand how we live our lives and sometimes realise that you can still have an active and sociable life if your disabilities allow you to. I am still pretty mobile and functional despite having cerebral palsy. Still, I respect that other disabled people may not be able to get around as I can. Therefore, I will always try to answer every disability question. But please, can I ask people when speaking to me or want to ask me a question? Ask me directly first because I find it very infantilising and demoralising when people assume I am not educated or academically focused enough to answer questions for myself and interact directly with my friends in the first instance. Disabled people are human beings the same as everyone else, even if they look different, don't fit into past stereotypes or are not communicating in a way that you are used to. Disabled people have a soul and want to feel and be included like the rest of society.

So, in general, please stop talking to or about disabled people in the third person, or as if they are an object and make an instant assumption about that person. If you are going to ask them a question, ask them directly. Stop directing questions to the person or people with them, and don't immediately speak to their partner, friend, personal assistant or BSL interpreter. Instead, ask them the question directly in the first instance; if they don't feel confident enough to answer you, they'll ask for help.
Here's an example. Start by asking a disabled a direct question like, 'What is YOUR favourite colour?' instead of using the third person and non-inclusive language, 'What is THEIR favourite colour? Then, if they feel confident enough to answer you immediately, you will know where you can take the conversion directly. If they decide to bring in another person to help, please respect that the conversation may end up being a mixture of first person, direct dialogue with them, and third person, where the other person will help you and the disabled person to communicate efficiently. Disabled people sometimes use other ways of communicating. For example, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, sometimes with eye-gaze technology. Some AAC users may use head pointers or hands-free mouses. Others may use switches to access their devices. However, using some of these communication aids and methods is not too conventional and can be time-consuming. Still, they allow disabled people to have the ability to communicate within society. In addition, they are a form of out-let; they allow people with speech impediments or who are non-verbal to be heard.

Despite my experiences, I believe through education in our schools and on social media, we can start to educate the broader society on how to interact with all kinds of disabled people through more disability awareness programmes in our workplaces, retail, tourism and hospitality sectors. However, our government, devolved governments, and local authorities need to liaise with the disabled community on a bigger scale to achieve this. Primarily, disabled people are the ones who live through these experiences and, therefore, are the best people to advise on how we can make our society a more inclusive one.
So please, be kind when speaking with or asking a disabled person a question. Ask them directly in the first instance because you never know how knowledgeable these people could be, and they will most likely end up inspiring you for the rest of your life.

Best wishes,
Gavin

Why We Should Celebrate Our Differences: A Path to a More Inclusive World

We live in a beautifully diverse world where no two people are alike. Differences are all around us, whether it’s in how we speak, how we look, or how we experience life. But how do we respond to these differences? Some embrace them with curiosity and kindness, while others hesitate, unsure of how to react. As we approach International Day of Disabled Persons on 3rd December 2025, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the importance of embracing differences, not just to be polite, but as a necessary step toward building a more inclusive world. For me, living with cerebral palsy has shown me the transformative power of acceptance and how much better the world is when we welcome all kinds of differences.

Personal Reflection

There have been many moments in my life when I’ve felt the weight of people’s judgments before they’ve even spoken to me. Take, for example, one of my earlier speaking engagements. As I stood at the front of the room, ready to deliver my talk, I noticed a few puzzled glances as I prepared my AAC device to help me communicate. Some of the audience members clearly weren’t sure how to react, and I could feel their uncertainty. They were used to speakers who stood up and spoke, and here I was, using technology in a way that wasn’t familiar to them.

But as I began to share my story and talk about the challenges and triumphs of living with cerebral palsy, I watched those puzzled expressions soften and change to embracing smiles and laughter. When I reached the end, people were nodding, cheekily laughing and fully engaged. What changed was their willingness to accept something different from the norm. That shift from hesitation to acceptance was powerful, not just for them but for me, too. It reinforced my belief that embracing differences opens doors to connection, learning, and growth. This was a notion of acceptance for me.

The Power of Acceptance

One of the most rewarding parts of my work as an author and motivational speaker is seeing people’s perspectives shift as they learn about disability. Whether speaking to a group of children in a classroom or a room full of professionals, the message is always the same: Embrace different and choose acceptance and understanding over judgement. We’re all different in one way or another, and those differences are what make life interesting. I’ve found that once people move past their initial uncertainties and start engaging with the person in front of them, all barriers come down, one step at a time, and meaningful conversations begin. It just takes a bit of persuasive education.

In schools, I’ve seen children’s eyes light up as they start to understand that it’s okay to be different. In professional spaces such as our workplaces and retail and hospitality venues, I’ve had people tell me they hadn’t considered how small changes like accessible meeting spaces or a bit of patience during conversations could make a massive difference for disabled people. In its simplest form, acceptance is recognising that everyone has something valuable to offer, no matter how they communicate, move, or experience the world.

A Call for Inclusivity

On International Day of Disabled Persons, there’s no better time to think about how we can all make a difference in our daily lives. Inclusion isn’t about grand gestures but our small, everyday choices to ensure everyone feels valued. Here are some practical ways to embrace differences and create a more inclusive environment:

Listen without assumptions: When you meet someone who seems different, try not to assume anything. Never judge someone until you truly get to know them. Take the time to listen and get to know them for who they are.
Make spaces welcoming: Whether at work, in school, or in public, consider how accessible and welcoming your environment is. Are there physical or other barriers that prevent someone from participating fully? If so, think about how you can remove them.
Speak up for inclusion: If you see someone being left out or mistreated because of their differences, don’t hesitate to speak up. You don’t need to have all the answers; showing support can go a long way. I know all too well how feeling excluded or left behind feels.

Inclusivity starts with recognising that differences don’t separate us; they bring us together. By embracing these differences, we create communities where everyone has the chance to contribute, grow, and thrive.

Take a moment to think about how you can embrace differences in your own life. What can you do today to make someone feel more included? Sometimes, it’s as simple as waving or smiling at someone who looks unsure or asking how you can make a space more accessible for everyone. Inclusion is not just about being kind; it’s about actively choosing to see the value in everyone, regardless of their background or abilities.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you ever been in a situation where embracing differences positively impacted you? Or have you felt misunderstood because of something that set you apart? Share your experiences in the comments below. Your story might inspire someone else to take a step towards inclusivity.

If you found this post helpful, please share it with others. Let’s spread the message that differences are to be embraced, not avoided. You can also join the conversation on social media using #EmbraceDifferences and #IDPWD2025. Let’s work together to create a world where everyone is valued.

Welcome to The Disabled Writer’s Blog: One Journey, One Mission!

My name is Gavin Clifton, and I’m excited to have you join me here! I created this blog as a personal journey, a safe place for not only people within the disabled community but for everyone who wishes to join me on my mission of sharing my experiences of living with cerebral palsy, overcoming challenges, and spreading the message of hope, especially to parents of disabled children.

Who Am I?
I was born with a neurological condition called cerebral palsy (CP), which affects my movement, muscle tone, motor skills, and speech. Growing up, I faced many physical and emotional obstacles, but I’ve always believed that my disability does not define me and that it is simply a part of my story. I’ve worked to achieve my dreams, even when society or my body seemed determined to stand in my way. Still, hopefully, I can use this crazy journey of disability and self-acceptance to educate and empower a realisation of a more accessible, inclusive, outward-looking and emphatic world, one small step at a time.
From a young age, I was taught that life would be challenging, but I also learned that resilience and determination could help me navigate those challenges. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has been one of self-discovery, learning, to continual self-acceptance and growth. Today, I’m proud to say I’m an author, disability awareness empowerment advocate, and motivational speaker. My key message, which I’ll share in this blog, is, "It's okay to embrace differences; choose acceptance and understanding over judgment."

Why I Started This Blog
I wanted to create this blog as a space where I can openly share my experiences living with cerebral palsy and the lessons I’ve learned along the way, laying everything bare and open for everyone to read, see, and experience. When I was younger, there weren’t many resources available for people like me, personal stories about what it’s like to live with a disability, to fight for inclusion, or to balance the highs and lows of life with a neurological condition. So, I decided to create that resource myself, alongside many other disability advocates who are fighting for equity in this modern era.
I know that many people out there feel misunderstood, judged, or even invisible because of their disabilities. Whether you have a disability yourself, know someone who does, or want to learn more, I hope this blog will enlighten you and inspire you to see the world from a different perspective. I want to encourage others to embrace their own differences and understand that there is strength in diversity.

My Mission
Throughout my life, I’ve made it my mission to educate and raise awareness about disabilities, particularly cerebral palsy, and to advocate for inclusion and accessibility in all areas of life. From public speaking engagements to writing, my goal is to help people better understand what it means to live with a disability, not just the struggles but also the triumphs and joys. I want to inspire and empower through using an unfiltered narrative through the power of words. All with a bit of cheeky humour sprinkled on top. I am slightly bonkers, after all.
One of the most important things I’ve learned is that disability doesn’t limit potential. Yes, it brings challenges, but it also brings unique strengths, perspectives, and opportunities for growth. In this blog, I’ll discuss everything from navigating daily life with cerebral palsy to breaking barriers in education and the workplace to promoting accessibility and understanding in our communities.

What to Expect from This Blog
This blog will be a safe space for reflection, education, and storytelling. I’ll be sharing personal stories about my journey, the challenging moments, tears, fears and victories, as well as practical advice for those with disabilities, their parents and families, and anyone interested in building a more inclusive world.

You’ll find posts on:

Disability Awareness: Real-life stories about living with cerebral palsy and how we can all promote inclusion.
Accessibility and Advocacy: Practical tips for making workplaces, retail, schools, and communities more accessible.
Personal Growth and Acceptance: How I learned (and still am) learning to embrace my own differences and find strength in them so I can make a difference.
I’ll also be writing about my experiences as a bestselling children’s author and sharing insights on how I navigate the world of writing and public speaking with cerebral palsy. My goal is to show that we all have the power to achieve our dreams, no matter what obstacles we face.

Let’s Embrace Differences Together
I’m so excited to continue this journey with you! Whether you’re here to learn, share, or simply be inspired, I hope you’ll find something in my story that resonates with you. My message to you is simple: It’s okay to be different. Embrace who you are and encourage others to do the same. Let’s build a world where everyone feels seen, accepted, and valued, regardless of their abilities.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Stay tuned for more posts where I’ll dive deeper into my personal story, share disability advocacy tips, and much more. Together, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world.

If you’re interested in following my journey, please subscribe to my blog for updates on new posts. I’d love to hear from you; feel free to share your thoughts in the comments
below or contact me directly. Let’s start a conversation about how we can all embrace differences and make the world more inclusive.

How Cold Weather Can Impact Muscles for Individuals with Cerebral Palsy

Living with cerebral palsy (CP) can present various challenges, and one aspect that often goes unnoticed is how cold weather affects individuals with this condition. Cerebral palsy affects muscle control and movement, and when combined with frigid temperatures, it can further impact the well-being of those with CP. Let's explore how cold weather can affect the muscles of individuals with cerebral palsy and discuss strategies to mitigate these challenges.

1. Increased muscle stiffness:

Cold weather can cause muscles to become stiffer and more rigid, which can be particularly challenging for individuals with cerebral palsy. People with CP already experience muscle tightness due to the condition, and the cold weather exacerbates these symptoms. The drop in temperature can lead to increased muscle stiffness, making movement more difficult and uncomfortable.

2. Decreased flexibility:

Flexibility is crucial for individuals with cerebral palsy to maintain their range of motion and perform daily activities. However, cold weather can reduce flexibility, making it harder to move and perform tasks that may already be challenging due to the effects of CP. This decreased flexibility can further limit mobility and independence.

3. Increased muscle pain:

Cold weather can also contribute to an increase in muscle pain for individuals with cerebral palsy. The combination of low temperatures and muscle stiffness can lead to discomfort and soreness. The pain experienced due to these weather-related effects can make it harder to engage in physical activities, leading to decreased mobility and potential limitations in overall well-being.

4. Challenges with coordination and balance:

Cerebral palsy often affects coordination and balance; cold weather can intensify these challenges. Reduced muscle flexibility and increased stiffness can impact balance and coordination, making it more difficult for individuals with CP to maintain stability and move confidently. This can increase the risk of falls and injuries, especially on icy or slippery surfaces.

I have experienced ALL of the above, more so now I am getting older, with muscles becoming stiffer and rigid, especially on my right side, where I am affected by cerebral palsy the most. I also begin experiencing increased muscle pain in my hamstrings and leg muscles. This then affects my coordination and balance, leading to a drop in confidence to do things or go places alone, in turn leading to my anxiety soaring and questioning my self-worth. Also, in colder weather, I have fallen over numerous times, especially slipping on icy surfaces, leading to quite a few injuries, including broken bones.

Please be aware that from a personal, friendship and professional perspective, cold weather can affect or hinder how people with cerebral palsy can carry out everyday tasks that most people take for granted due to muscles tightening up and energy levels dropping. For example, if you have a work or business meeting scheduled with someone with cerebral palsy on a cold day, they may need to rearrange the meeting or move it to an online one because it's too icy for them to travel and get to the meeting's venue. Extra time may be needed for the person to participate in the meeting because of stiff muscles, meaning they are using up more energy managing their uncontrollable movements, meaning everything can take longer than expected. Becoming more aware, empathetic and knowledgeable about how stiffness and tight muscles can affect people with cerebral palsy and the impact it has on their professional daily routines and putting in practice on spreading awareness within the business world on how and why people with cerebral palsy may need to change patterns or rearrange scheduled meetings will only make you, as a business or company become more accessible, diverse and inclusive.

Disabled people and people with cerebral palsy, like everyone else, also have the right to a social life if they choose to have one. There is nothing wrong with a disabled person going on a well-deserved shopping trip, a meal, a friendly drink with friends, or even a holiday with a carer, or as people prefer to call them today, a personal assistant. However, please remember that in colder weather, people with physical disabilities have the added encumbrance of the possibility of having to pre-plan, rearrange or even cancel arranged days or nights out due to the weather conditions and the roads and pathways becoming too icy and dangerous to navigate, risking falling over and having the horrible decision-making process to go through of whether or not to risk getting seriously injured or asking people if they are happy to rearrange or even cancel, this all leads to disappointment and anxiety. Again, this is where understanding and empathy all help support and make disabled people feel more included in the short and long term.

Mitigating the Impacts:

1. Dressing appropriately:

Wearing warm clothing, including layers, can help to retain body heat and minimise the impact of cold weather on muscles. Additionally, using thermal accessories such as gloves, hats, and scarves can help to protect extremities and maintain warmth.

2. Regular stretching and exercise:

Regular stretching exercises can help maintain muscle flexibility and counteract the effects of cold weather. Physical therapy and targeted exercises prescribed by healthcare professionals can be especially beneficial for individuals with cerebral palsy, helping to reduce muscle stiffness and promote mobility.

3. Warm-up routines:

Before heading outdoors, taking the time to warm up muscles through gentle exercises or applying heat therapy techniques like warm towels or heating pads can help to loosen tight muscles and improve circulation. This can make movement more manageable and more comfortable in cold weather.

4. Maintaining indoor comfort:

Creating a warm and comfortable indoor environment can be crucial for individuals with cerebral palsy during colder months. Keeping living spaces adequately heated can help prevent muscles from becoming too stiff, promoting mobility and overall well-being.

To conclude, cold weather can pose unique challenges for individuals with cerebral palsy, affecting muscle stiffness, flexibility, coordination, and balance. However, with appropriate strategies and precautions, these challenges can be mitigated. By dressing appropriately, engaging in regular stretching and exercise, incorporating warm-up routines, and maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, individuals with cerebral palsy can minimise the impact of cold weather on their muscles and continue to thrive despite the challenges presented by their condition.

I discuss in more detail how I stay as mobile as possible, including how fatigue can also affect people with cerebral palsy and how I try to battle to mitigate all of this in #CerebralPalsyAndMe, my autobiography about living with cerebral palsy. You can order a copy on my website.

Best wishes,

Gavin

www.gavincliftonwriter.com