Challenge Not Accepted: Harry
Harry, 27, is a fun loving, sociable, curious “happy chap” – who loves singing, listening to music, watching sport and being out in the community. His mum Lynette explains why there are no 'social barriers' stopping Harry showing his true colours:
"Harry is affectionate and very caring and becomes anxious when people get upset. He is very endearing, a character trait that everyone notices. He asks lots of questions, likes to tell jokes, laughs and claps and people can’t help but join in with him!
"Harry has complex health needs"
At birth, a brain haemorrhage required a shunt being inserted into his brain. He has shunted hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, diabetes insipidus and is visually impaired.
Harry's diabetes means he can very quickly dehydrate and must drink at least 2½ litres of fluid every day. This is a huge challenge for him, and there are good and bad days. But those supporting him at Rose Road are fantastic at getting him to drink by playing games and having races!
Harry also has anxiety issues which impact on his ability to be independent. He needs structure, routine and being with people who understand him.
"Socially for Harry there are no barriers."
He will want to be where the action is, on the dance floor, in the middle, with everyone dancing around him! Harry loves going away on holiday in the family caravan or on cruises. We have met so many people whilst on cruises as Harry likes to talk to everyone and wants to be part of the social scene! We are so very lucky to have our family live near us too – Harry’s cousins take him out in the community all the time where he can show people his warm nature and happy personality!
"In my opinion, attitudes and perceptions towards people with disabilities have improved".
In the past there have been occasions when people would blatantly stare or comment which could be extremely upsetting. Being a parent of a young person with SEND has meant that I have had to be persistent and resilient in order to get the support Harry needs and overcome social attitudes.
Sometimes this means gently encouraging people to interact with Harry, instead of staring or whispering.
At the Shirley Fringe Community Festival last September, for example, Harry was listening to the live bands and dancing when a little girl came over and stood next to him. Her mum commented that her daughter was really shy and also suffered with anxiety issues. So I introduced Harry to her and she held Harry’s hand and danced with him – her mum was so pleased.
It is a testament to how friendly and warm Harry is, as well as how opening conversations and being kind and positive can make a difference.
"Rose Road have been amazing".
Harry has developed strong friendships with young people, and Rose Road staff have really got to know him and understand his needs. During two recent family bereavements, Rose Road stepped in and readily offered extra nights respite and dealt with everything so sensitively when supporting Harry, which was a huge comfort.
Rose Road meet his needs and listen to his wishes, and give him the opportunity to do what he loves every day with friends.
We look forward to Harry’s time in respite because we can relax, have time to ourselves to be spontaneous, and spend quality time with Harry’s sister Daisy (who is a huge support to us and Harry’s biggest advocate) knowing that Harry is in a happy and safe place doing all the things he loves.
We are so very proud of Harry and all that he has achieved!"
