This Thursday we are celebrating IDPWD with this year’s theme focusing on spreading awareness and understanding of disabilities that are not immediately apparent, such as mental illness, chronic pain or fatigue, sight or hearing impairments, diabetes, brain injuries, neurological disorders, learning differences and cognitive dysfunctions, among others.

’15 per cent of the world’s population, or more than 1 billion people, are living with disability. Of this number, it’s estimated 450 million are living with a mental or neurological condition and 2/3 of these will not seek professional medical help, largely due to stiga, discrimination and neglect.’ – World Health Organisation.

Please remember millions of people are living with disability that is not immediately apparent and how important it is to remove the barriers for all people living with disability, both visible and non-visible.