Posted 16th Mar 2022 by Kerry Thompson
Kerry travels to the National Diversity Awards in her WAV
2 minutes read time
It’s been a while since I went out, but not just any old out. I mean OUT, OUT!
The National Diversity Awards is held in Liverpool at the iconic cathedral. It’s a prestigious black tie event held annually which celebrates the excellent achievements of grass-root communities that tackle the issue in today’s society, giving them recognition for their dedication and hard work.
I was extremely privileged to be a finalist in the ‘positive role model in disability’ category. The words “yes I will be attending” couldn’t come out my mouth fast enough. If it were not for my WAV, I would have had to decline the offer.
This would be the first time I got to travel long distance in my WAV aka ‘Sheila’. Having the comfort of my own van means having my own heating and air con. A USB port just to myself. A fantastic view of the world as we’re driving along. Even better, turn those tunes up in the back it’s like having your own personal Music festival. But on a serious note I am able to take medical and other equipment I use in my everyday life if I want to travel away from home
Hotel booked, tickets printed, lateral flow test negative and registered. Everything but the kitchen sink packed including the out laws and hubby, Full tank, even a wash and wax. Sheila that is, you naughty lot!
We where ready to get on the road, it took us around 3 hour 30 minutes from Milton Keynes to arrive in Liverpool. It was a smooth comfortable Journey all the way. Being able to travel safely in my wheelchair was great. No fuss just what I like it.
I booked a hotel 5 minutes away from the Cathedral but of course it was wet and windy. it’s like the weather knew I had my hair and makeup professionally done plus I was wearing a skirt (which never happens!). Thankfully not having the worry and anxiety of either getting cold and wet or trying to find a suitable wheelchair accessible taxi in an area I have no idea about or where to even start reminded me just how lucky I was to have my WAV.
The event was stupendous something I will never forget, I’m so grateful I got the opportunity to experience and celebrate with incredible people including a few celebrities that have achieved great things and will continue to strive for an inclusive and diverse world.
I even got to stay out past midnight to party until the end of the night. Oh my poor head and body the following morning had great pleasure in reminding me I wasn’t in my 20’s anymore!
Without having access to my WAV it would have been something I probably wouldn’t have attended.
Even after 6 months, just catching a glimpse I still smile to myself, while thinking that’s all mine that’s what freedom looks like for me in the shape of a Ford Quantum. I am reminded every day I see my wheelchair accessible vehicle just how much more independence it gives me.