I'm a disabled 17y old - AMA

[dragonsdenn]

I'm about to turn 18 and disabled, in my final year of education. Open to any questions as long as the conversation stays respectful!

Has your education place been supportive?
do you feel different from your friends- and how do they help you feel included?

Why MN and not Reddit or some teen forum?

Hi, what is the nature of your disability - if you don't mind me asking. What examples of ignorance have you encountered (if any)? Thanks for reading ☺️

What brings you to mumsnet?

Definitely my education has been the second most supportive place, outside of my family. I've had exam accommodations, medical help & also emotional help from teachers.
I definitely feel very different from my friends!! I'm one of the oldest in my school and I'm currently not allowed to drive (I'm epileptic so I have to reach a year seizure free) whilst they're all getting their licences. The biggest thing they do for me is my friend group's activities are all things that I can do, so no late night activities for example.

Fair question - I have been on Reddit since 2020 and post regularly on disabled community subreddits, but I think it's important to gain different perspectives and insights.

I'm epileptic and have been since I was 10. I have unaware focal seizures meaning that I don't convulse but go unconscious, unaware of my surroundings, and don't really know what's going on!! The most ignorance is probably based on people assuming I don't need help as I look able bodied, so things like taking my exams in a separate room, or having my parents drive me everywhere (as other teens call me lazy for not learning to drive or immature for being unable to take public transport).

What are your hopes for your future?