Recently I was at my queer pagan camp, where I have been going for years. As usual there were also djembés and some of us started playing the drums. Usually that doesn't bother me, but one of the drums had a high pitch that hurts my ears. So I took some distance, and one of my friends asked if that has to do with my autism. Autism?! Which autism??

On a cold Saturday in January I drive back home after a pleasant evening with friends. I drive that route more often and I know the way like the back of my hand. In any case, the road mainly goes straight on, straight on and then even further straight on. This evening, that is especially convenient…

International Day of Persons with Disabilities is to raise awareness that people with disabilities often are seen as pitiful or ‘broken’. Too often we are thought about as we need to be fixed, and if that isn’t possible wehey need to be taken care of. This attitude towards people with disabilities turns us into marginalised people.

When I became chronically ill, I had no idea I would end up in a new world. A world with its own rules, its own standards and even its own jargon. Where groups usually come up with these things themselves, in Disability Country these are imposed by society. In this column you will read four words that apply especially to people with disabilities.

An article about hidden poverty in the context of the Day of Hidden Poverty.

Seven years ago I suddenly became chronically ill. My life changed completely in one fell swoop. An accident never comes alone, because I could no longer work and ended up on welfare benefit – and that was my biggest disability. Living in poverty is degrading and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy! Rescue came completely unexpectedly.

The Special Mobile 4 Days was held in Meijel from 25 to 29 July. Wheelchair users Dieuwertje and Jochem participated with their electric add-on bikes. “It was great fun. Beautiful routes, beautiful environment and warm people. We will participate again next year!”

For more than 25 years, Jochem Verdonk has been involved in all kinds of interest groups for people with a disability or chronic illness. Despite all the differences, he also sees important similarities. Organising meetings for peers is such an similarity. What makes peer contact special?

Sometimes I have a good day and I go outside incognito. Then I'm a roller who is walking. A roller in disguise, so to speak. That is a disconcerting experience, which shows me again how easily I have become used to the privilege of being a roller.

During rides with Regiotaxi and Valys I usually have a chat with the driver. All kinds of topics are covered, from the driver's dogs to COVID, from my disability to politics. Often I am asked if I have a job. “Sure,” I answer. “I am the manager of a dynamic team.”

Sex is important to me, as it is to most people. But since I became chronically ill, sex is no longer self-evident. How do I solve that? With the necessary kinds of tricks…