Fran Hamilton is a woman who loves a challenge, and has an infectious cackle to make anyone smile. 7 years ago, when her daughter was only 8 months old, Fran became a one-armed mum after a nasty motorbike accident. In this podcast with Emily Yates of Enhance The UK, Fran shares her hints, tips and hacks on disabled parenting and tells a good few stories, too!
‘It’s a different journey from everyone else but it’s YOUR journey. Never give up. You have to believe in yourself and make it happen.’
Fran explains how she coped adapting to becoming disabled as a new mum. Sharing tricks for fastening nappies and steering prams when you’ve only got one arm, to dealing with other peoples questions.
Disabled parenting is a taboo subject. With a society that still sees disability as less than desirable, many of us are viewed as incapable of having and looking after children. Fran explains her capabilities as a disabled mum, and her hilarious anecdotes prove that anything is possible – finding a solution just might be a little tougher, or take a little longer.
‘One time in the play park, a dad was staring. He nudged the mum and she stared too, then their child joined it. I’d taught my daughter that wasn’t the right way to behave so when she saw them she shouted “It’s rude to stare you know!” I’m very proud of her.’
‘Don’t always pretend you’re okay. I’m really rubbish at asking for help and get myself stressed out. Remember that it’s okay to not be okay.’
Huge thanks to Fran for joining us in this podcast. Keep up to date with all our interviews, articles and more by joining us on twitter @ETUKUndressing and Instagram @UndressingDisability.
