In her new book, In Pursuit of Normal, Martha shares a glimpse into her life. Through honest reflections and insights, she invites readers to explore the challenges she’s faced and the triumphs that have shaped her life, offering a unique perspective you won’t want to miss.
I was unconscious for 67 days. When I came to, I had to relearn even the most basic tasks, like lifting a bread roll to my mouth. I’ve tried to write a book about my life book before, but this experience made me want to share my story.
My parents never let my cerebral palsy hold me back. From the very beginning, they treated me the same as my two siblings. I was a determined little girl, always eager to tackle the next challenge head-on.
My parents are from Malta, so we went on holiday there often during my childhood and it’s definitely not accessible. I’d be crawling up and down stairs and my aunts and uncles treated me like their children, so it was beautiful.
The teachers at my school recognised a fire in me to learn and really pushed me academically. I thought at the time people would think, because I was in a wheelchair that I’m stupid, but my education experience was so positive.
Finding employment hasn’t been easy, but I learnt about going through the side door. I have contacted CEO’s directly, sharing what I can do, and then making up a job that would work for me too. When I was working at Living My Way, I loved advocating for Members as Support Coordinator and I’ve always tried to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
It took me nine months to finish the book I would get up early and write four days a week. I just kept writing and writing, and I worked closely with my mentor Sophie so I had accountability.
It’s a very personal account I share a day in my life and some of the challenges. I know that sometimes there might be a curiosity about whether people with disability do this or do that.
There’s a lot of different stuff in the book that I hope people enjoy.
Because that’s what my life has been all about – embracing challenges and finding ways to live life to the fullest which I’m proud of, like skiing down a mountain, and other adrenaline adventures I’ve always loved.
I want to show the world that having a disability doesn’t have to define you or limit your potential. If I can do it, then I truly believe anyone can.
Martha Siede, Author, and Guest Blogger
Learn more:
– Book Review by Carol Thompson
– Pre-purchase ‘In Pursuit of Normal’ by Martha Siede from Amazon
– Official book launch is on 3 December 2024 (International Day of People with Disability).
