Ability Beyond Disability: A Journey from Stark Expectations at Birth to Success by 30

Discover my journey of overcoming the stark expectations and lifelong challenges of spina bifida and hydrocephalus to lead a mainstream, fulfilling life. From the unexpected challenges at birth to achieving professional success by 30, Josh Porritt's story is about perseverance, determination, and the power of support. Learn how my mother’s unwavering belief in my potential helped me defy expectations, secure a rewarding career, and start a business to assist others with disabilities. #Inspiration #DisabilitySuccess #DefyingOdds
Video Chapters:
1. Birth and Early Years
Introduction
Early medical challenges and surgeries
Parental Support
My mother’s pivotal role in nurturing my development
Early signs of defying medical expectations
2. Primary School
Integration and Adaptation
Experiences with teachers and classmates
Overcoming physical barriers and participating in school activities
Building Confidence
How my mother’s support helped me live mainstream despite my disability
3. Secondary School
Adolescence and Independence
Adjusting to a new environment and increased academic demands
Developing self-advocacy skills
Social Life
Making friends and joining clubs, feeling included and capable
4. College
Academic and Personal Growth
Selecting a course that matched my interests
Balancing academic pressures with managing my health
Support Network
The role of friends, mentors, and continuous encouragement from my mother
5. Initial Job Rejection
Facing Disappointment
The challenge of being rejected from my first job application
Processing feedback and planning for improvement
6. Volunteering with Jo Thompson
Gaining Experience
Jo Thompson’s offer to allow me to volunteer and build my skills
Working 9-5, Monday to Friday, and the skills I developed
Preparation and Growth
How this experience prepared me for future opportunities
7. Reapplying and Securing the Job
Persistence Pays Off
Reapplying with a strong presentation of my progress
Demonstrating how I addressed the feedback from my initial rejection
Achieving Success
Securing the job and what it meant for my personal and professional growth
8. 12 Years of Professional Growth
Career Development
Advancing in my role over the years
Working with higher-spending clients and earning their trust
Reflections
Key achievements and the impact on my confidence and mainstream lifestyle
9. Current Life at 30
Present Success
Owning a home and maintaining a full-time job
Starting a business to help others with disabilities utilise smart home technology
Future Goals
Vision for expanding my business and continuing to inspire others
Final Thoughts
Facts and Figures on Disabilities in the UK:
Prevalence of Disabilities: According to the Family Resources Survey 2021/22, there are 14.6 million disabled people in the UK, making up about 22% of the population.
Employment Rates: As of 2022, the employment rate for disabled people in the UK is 53.6%, compared to 81.6% for non-disabled people.
Spina Bifida Statistics: Spina bifida affects approximately 1 in 1,000 pregnancies in the UK. However, due to prenatal screening and intervention, the incidence of babies born with spina bifida is lower.
Hydrocephalus Statistics: Hydrocephalus affects around 1 in 1,000 babies born in the UK. It can occur in conjunction with other conditions like spina bifida.
Support and Inclusion: Over 20% of students in primary and secondary schools in the UK have special educational needs, highlighting the importance of inclusive education.
These statistics provide a broader context for my personal journey, illustrating the commonality of disabilities and the challenges and achievements that many individuals experience in the UK.
Sources:
Family Resources Survey 2021/22
Disability Employment Gap: ONS
Spina Bifida - NHS
Hydrocephalus - NHS
Special Educational Needs in England