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I am a person with a physical disability, but my story does not end here. I had to overcome an extra share of hurdles and stumbling blocks in life, like most of the persons with some kind of disability. In my opinion it is a lifelong struggle, not only to live with the impairments but also with the disability that society imposes on us.
Consequently, I decided to do something not just for myself but for others who are in the same situation and with whom I can understand their boundaries. Together with my friends, I have started a group called LAND - Living Ability Not Disability for Youths – A Sub-committee through a NGO, which is National Parents’ Society for Persons with Disability. This voluntary group was set up in August 2002 and its main aims are to promote inclusion, assistance, education and socialization of youths with a physical disability.
We want to enhance independence especially for youths with a disability; make other people aware that we are like other persons who have the same energy, the same ideals, the same eagerness to have fun, to work, to help each other when the need arises even though with certain boundaries. We also want to make government entities, public and private companies, owners of bars, clubs, and other places aware that the places they own are not always as accessible as they should be, therefore, we are being discriminated against.
The LAND Group is the only organisation in Malta that caters for young people who have a physical disability in general. Together with our friends who are not disabled, we organise weekly activities and we have fun together. We go to bars, clubs, cinemas, local events, karaoke etc. We take part in conferences and seminars and hopefully we will start organising such programmes and events in the future. We also take part in TV and radio programmes to promote awareness regarding topics that concern us. We are determined not to loose hope.
We really work hard for the benefit of all the members of this group so as to enjoy our social life like other youths of the world. Our volunteers are willing to give some of their free time to be with us and tend to our needs but I can assure you that we have become a truly united circle of friends. We share fun and laughter, we chat, and share our problems together. This gives us satisfaction and proved quite beneficial to our lives.
We are sure that this positive and enjoyable time that we spend together is a stepping stone for future goals. With this objective in mind and by working closer together we are ensuring ourselves our rightful place in society.
Whoever may be reading this letter and wishes to join this group and help out either by assisting us during our activities or else financially, please email us on landcontact@hotmail.com or call Michelle Farrugia on 79252332 for more information.
No matter how large or small, every helping hand counts in its own special way.
Jeanesse Abela
President of the LAND Group
Msida
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