Born in 1993 with a unique chromosome deletion our amazing Stephanie has never ceased to amaze us! Not least her ability to write independently the following:

“As my mum, Tracey Graham, said I was born in Gravesend hospital in January 1993, with a very rare chromosome deletion and some health problems. When I was born I had a stigmatism which means that my eyes crossed over so to correct that I had two operations one on each eye, and I was also born with a hole in my heart which didn’t close of its own accord, so at three I had my third operation which was open heart surgery. I was also very late walking I was about two and a half years of age, the reason for this was I had lazy muscles and even now being 28 if I stand or walk for a long period of time my leg muscles hurt, but I pulled through all of it which the doctors weren’t sure I’d be able to do. I went to mainstream schools but all the while having that extra help in class, then when I was eleven my parents, my brother and I moved to France so I had to learn a different language which I can now speak fluently. When I was thirteen I was diagnosed with double scoliosis, so I had to wear a back brace for three years 24/7. I still have some problems with my back but generally things are good.”

On top of the physical challenges Steph has had to deal with she has some learning difficulties. She has a great attitude to life but there have been some really tough times. Learning to be less vulnerable and more instinctive is not something you can read in a book! She is bilingual and has an amazing memory but education has been hard. However, at 28 years old she has been living independently for 6 years and now looking for a job working with children. Steph went back into education and has finished the first part of her child care course. Exciting times ahead.....

Right now, people with a learning disability face inequalities in every area of life with almost 1 in 3 young people with a learning disability spending less than 1 hour outside their home on a typical Saturday.They face barriers finding a job, accessing activities in their local community and receiving good quality healthcare. We tackle these issues head on by providing support in a way that meets individual needs and encourages greater independence.We give expert advice and information that empowers people and their families. And we campaign relentlessly for changes that brings greater equality for people with a learning disability.By supporting Team Mencap you will be helping us to support people with a learning disability to live the life they choose, and do the things they love.

Any donation small, medium or large 😉 will help. A huge thank you from both of us 😊