Me painting David

My mouth painting - Purple Giraffe

I’m only physically able to use my mouth to paint.

We can make outer space and celestial bodies accessible for able people but disabled people can’t even get on a train.

My mouth painting, Three Donuts.

After an accident in 2009, I’m only physically able to paint using my mouth.

Here is my latest mouth painting.

Me mouth painting my Chilli Plant

Even if it doesn’t work at least I can say I tried it and not let “failure” stop me from trying. My progress will look slow, it’s taken 15 years to get here, but recognising and celebrating even the most minute progress can lift you and encourage you in any endeavor.

15 years later…
Here we are a bit more progress, a lot more fun.
This is exhausting but it’s the challenge and striving to push myself that gives me so much.
Yes I’m severely limited in my physical capabilities but I can be unlimited in my mind and try new ways of testing my limits.

Disabled and proud on International Day of Disabled People.

Disability is not the end of the world by any means. My disability has changed my life for the better.

Society still has a lot to learn about accessibility and how to treat disabled people with respect and dignity.

My mouth painting. Black Horned Bull.

A few words on acceptance.

This moment was just the start for me but allowed me to start moving forward to fully accepting my new life. Acceptance takes time, patience and determination but the effort and payoff is worth every second of struggle.

From my book, The Little Big Things.

How do you cycle when you can’t use your legs?

My mouth painting - I’m only able to paint using my mouth

Parrot (on a gold branch)