As the world prepares to commemorate December 3rd, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I consider this occasion more than just a global celebration. It is a moment to reflect on the struggles, sacrifices, resilience and determination of millions of persons living with disabilities across the world.
Surviving in today’s harsh economic realities is already a difficult task for physically fit individuals. One can only imagine how much more challenging life becomes for persons living with disabilities, who must confront additional barriers while struggling to meet their daily responsibilities.
For me, this reality is not a story I have merely read or reported. It is a life I live every day.
As a physically challenged journalist who depends on crutches for mobility, the journey has never been easy. Moving from one location to another, gathering information, conducting investigations, meeting news sources and reporting events accurately come with enormous physical and emotional challenges.
Yet, despite these difficulties, I have refused to allow my physical condition to define my professional capacity or determine how much I can contribute to society.
Beyond journalism, I am also a father with responsibilities and people who look up to me for hope, encouragement and support. This responsibility gives me another reason to keep fighting, even when the challenges become overwhelming.
There are moments when depending on crutches for everyday movement becomes exhausting. There are occasions when the physical demands of investigative journalism appear almost unbearable. Sometimes, the challenges are so overwhelming that one is forced to question how much longer the journey can continue.
But whenever those difficult moments come, I remind myself that disability is not the end of ambition, purpose or productivity.
I know that many persons living with disabilities have found themselves discouraged by the harsh realities of life. Some have lost hope because of poverty, discrimination, lack of opportunities, inadequate support and the absence of an enabling environment.
However, I have chosen a different path. I have chosen to keep pushing, keep working, keep reporting and keep believing that my story will not end with the challenges I face today.
I may walk with crutches, but my dreams, determination and commitment to society remain standing.
December 3rd is therefore a special day for me. It is a day to celebrate survival, courage, gratitude and the extraordinary strength of people who refuse to surrender to life’s difficulties.
When I look back at my journey, I cannot help but appreciate God’s special grace. I am grateful for the gift of life and the strength to continue despite the physical challenges that have affected my legs.
My disability has changed the way I move, but it has not taken away my desire to serve humanity, speak for the voiceless, investigate issues affecting society and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I appeal to governments, corporate organisations, wealthy individuals, philanthropists and well-meaning members of society to look beyond sympathy and embrace practical support for persons living with disabilities.
We need more than public celebrations and speeches. We need accessible infrastructure, employment opportunities, financial assistance, healthcare support, mobility aids, inclusive policies and equal opportunities to contribute to society.
Persons living with disabilities should not have to beg for dignity, opportunity or the chance to fulfil their dreams.
To every person living with a disability who is struggling to survive, I want you to know that your condition does not make you less valuable. Your dreams are valid, your voice matters and your contribution to society is important.
Whenever I see another person overcoming disability-related challenges, I find renewed hope. It reminds me that my own breakthrough is possible and that one day, I will overcome many of the difficulties confronting me today.*
I also carry the hopes and expectations of those who look up to me. I do not want their dreams to die because of the challenges I face. I want my journey to become a source of encouragement to them, a reminder that difficult circumstances should not be allowed to destroy our determination.
As December 3rd approaches, I celebrate every person living with a disability who wakes up daily to fight another battle, pursue another dream and make another attempt at a better life.
Disability is not inability. Physical challenges should never become a prison for human potential.
Amb. Emmalex David Atseyinku
9News Nigeria Bureau Chief, South-South
Physically Challenged Journalist | Human Rights Advocate
