Hanging up my Trustee hat.

The Dyspraxia Foundation and me.

Gill Dixon, PGCE,MA,BHScHons,RGN.

I have had a long and productive relationship with the DF and so it is with a lump in my throat that I hang up my Trustee hat and step down from a role which I have been privileged to hold. My journey with dyspraxia/DCD began way back in 1994 when I happened upon the Charity and called the helpline. I had been trying to get someone to believe that my son was at least dyspraxic but I was beginning to feel that perhaps I was wrong. Then a lovely voice (I wish I could attach a name to it) offered me some validation. I felt believed and that my opinion mattered and it gave me the strength to take up my metaphorical sword once again and return to the battle. More than a helpline, it was a life line and that call features in the top ten moments of my life.

I live in a pretty neuro diverse household, one son with a mild level of dyspraxia, one with a severe form of the condition along with various other co-existing conditions and a husband who would attract a diagnosis if he wanted one I am sure. I consider myself ‘Dyspraxic by Proxy’ because everything I do or view I execute with my mind set to how my family members will perceive it.

I went back to University at age 40 to learn more about the condition which I studied for BHScHons degree and then a Master’s degree in Disability studies where I looked at the needs of children in mainstream school and why it seemed that teachers were unable to see what to me was glaringly obvious. A cathartic journey which led to the publication of my first book (co-authored by Lois Addy) ‘Making Inclusion work for Children with Dyspraxia’.             
I have met some wonderful people and was proud to receive the first ever Mary Colley Award in recognition of my efforts. Mary was a wonderful woman who made such a difference in a life that was cut short far too soon. She had so much more to do. 

It is surprising what a difference having a string of letters after my name and a published book made to my fight and I felt compelled to share the knowledge I had acquired with others. I set up a helpline from home for families in my area, coordinated three ‘local’ support groups, ran a youth group, wrote articles and offered my services as a trainer to schools, parents, organisations…anyone who would listen.

It seemed only natural me to use my knowledge and experience to try and do something for others because I am acutely aware of the tremendous obstacles people face when they are trying to get the needs of a child with an invisible disability met. The Dyspraxia Foundation was the obvious place to be and I am proud to have been associated with the Charity for the many years that I have. The staff and volunteers have become like a second family. I can honestly say to this day that it is only at conferences and functions that are full of people with the condition, or interested in learning about the condition that I have felt totally relaxed and accepted. Being surrounded by people with who ‘get it’ is liberating and fuels ones desire to spread the word further.  I would urge anyone who hasn’t experienced that sense of belonging to book onto a conference.

The DF is a small charity doing a mammoth job. A very few paid staff at the helm, work tirelessly to make the world a better and safer place for those with dyspraxia/DCD. So many opportunities have to be put on hold because it simply does not have the resources to meet demand. It desperately needs people to become members, to support its work and to have a part in enabling it to grow and flourish. I hope very much that the helpline can find the funds it need to once again offer a full time service because that it so very close to my heart. That friendly voice in the darkest of times saying ‘I believe you’ is vital and truly life changing.

I would urge anyone who wants to support a really important Charity that receives no government funding or huge recognition to support the Dyspraxia Foundation. Some 6% of the population have the condition (that’s at least one in every classroom or office space).  Look at the website and learn more www.dyspraxiafoundation.co.uk

My one regret is that I have not met every single volunteer whose efforts really do ensure the charities survival. Every single one of you is valued and your efforts are inestimable. 

Yes, it is time for me to hang up my Trustees hat and move over for younger, more energetic and enthused people. I will always be on side though and my work with and for the DF will continue I am sure. If I was a stick of rock, it’s fair to say that dyspraxia would be written right through me. How could I completely leave the dyspraxia family?  Please support it and help it to both survive and thrive.

Gills books are all available from www.dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk.

Dyscover Yourself. Aimed at 4-10 year olds.
Making Inclusion work or children with Dyspraxia. For parents/carers and education professional.
Dyspraxia The Foundations. For families, teachers, health professionals and anyone interested in knowing ore.