By Aaron Cordy
INCLUSION means providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded. It sounds simple enough, but there are members of the community who still feel like they are left out of opportunities that life can offer.
Kody Bothwell and Tom Cummins have both faced many challenges and setbacks in life. Tom has Pura Syndrome, which affects multiple body systems, including speech and his mobility. This means he relies on a wheelchair for mobility. Kody has a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis, and that causes tumours to grow on the nerve tissue of his optic nerve, greatly impacting his vision.
Despite the challenges they have faced, the pair know, like them, people with disabilities have a lot to offer to the community. That’s why they are holding the Inspiring Disability Inclusion event on Thursday, December 4, from 9am to 12pm at the Parklake, on Wyndham Street, Shepparton.
At the event, they will share their lived experiences and achievements, including Kody’s art businesses, KB’s Art & Design, and Tom’s advocacy for the Tom Cummins Stand Elevated Accessible Viewing Platform.
“I was always told if I became an artist, I’ll fail in life. I would never get anywhere from my low vision and all that, which made me more determined to do art,” said Kody.
“I want to try and tell everyone, no matter what disability or barriers, anything is achievable. It might take a little longer, but you can get there.
“I want people to judge us for our ability, not our disability, because even if you’ve got disabilities, you never know what they’re capable of.”
The Inspiring Disability Inclusion event is free, but there are limited tickets available, so bookings is essential. Book at Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/inspiring-disability-inclusion-tickets-1902490613639.
