I think you can do anything in this life whether you're in a wheelchair or not. I go to festivals, nightclubs, I travel the world, I'm loving my work on Triple J.
Dylan AlcottRead
People used to stare at me when I was growing up because I was in a wheelchair, and I hated it. Now they're staring at me because they know me. How amazing is that? It's 'Oh, that's Dylan!' Not, 'Oh, there's a guy in a wheelchair.'
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the transformation of perception from being seen solely as a person in a wheelchair to being recognized for one's identity and achievements.
Dylan Alcott reflects on his experience of growing up in a wheelchair, initially feeling discomfort and resentment at being stared at by others. Over time, he has garnered respect and recognition for who he is as a person, not just as someone with a disability. This shift illustrates the importance of identity beyond physical appearances and celebrates the idea that people can be seen for their true selves and contributions, rather than just their challenges.
Themes
IdentityDisabilityPerceptionRecognitionSelf-Acceptance
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about overcoming stigma.
More from Dylan Alcott
All quotes →I don't get out of bed every day to play to win a tennis tournament, I honestly don't. I do it because I love it, but it also provides me with a platform to do what I really want: which is to continue to change the perceptions around disability.
Dylan AlcottRead
When I turned on the TV or the radio, and flicked to the newspaper, I never saw anyone like me. That's what I struggled with the most. I loved Pat Rafter. I couldn't be Pat Rafter. I watched Rove McManus and I couldn't be Rove either.
Dylan AlcottRead
I questioned whether anyone would love me because I'm in a wheelchair.
Dylan AlcottRead
My purpose is changing perceptions so people with disability, people like me can get out there and live the lives that they deserve to live.
Dylan AlcottRead
People say, 'why not have the Paralympics and Olympics combined?' I'm like, 'When Usain Bolt was running, I fully appreciate everyone will watch him and not me. But guess what? When I'm on, we're the stars, right?'
Dylan AlcottRead
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