For the disabled
Sir: In 'Against the disabled' (21 March), Auberon Waugh suggests that to be disabled entitles one to be bitter, and that disabled people in receipt of various cash benefits because of disability are to be pitied. Very many disabled people, I feel, would not agree with either suggestion. I certainly do not, although Mr Waugh would probably think that I should be bitter and am to be pitied. You see, I am disabled with a rare condition which sets me somewhat apart from 'the rest'. I am only 4' 1" tall, the result of a condition known as diastrophic dwarfism.
There are degrees of disability and disadvantage, and society's responsibility is to do what it can for the greatest number with as much urgency as 'resources — money and manpower — permit.
The International Year of Disabled People, being an initiative of the United Nations, provides a unique opportunity to take stock and, hopefully, prepare for further progress in the prevention, care and rehabilitation of disabled people. Certainly we must care for the dying as Mr Waugh says, but not to the exclusion of the living.
No disabled person or organisation is required to follow Lord Snowdon obediently or, indeed, blindly. However, as President of the England IYDP Committee Lord Snowdon does ensure, to a considerable degree, that the aspirations of disabled people are given 'air' and this, of course, is very important, as Mr Waugh's article clearly demonstrates.
Utopia is elusive and it is true that not every valley will be exalted or, indeed, the rough places made smooth, but the Book from which these references are taken strongly urges the practical approach of the Good Samaritan. I use my, sometimes unpleasant, experiences to equip me the better to understand and help those in need.
It is not difficult to criticise and knock down, but I suggest that life for all of us would be richer if more people would bury their jaundiced prejudices and extend the hand of helpfulness, recognising that whatever our physical form we are all entitled to respect as human beings.
Charles L. Pocock Remploy Ltd, 415 Edgware Road, London NW2
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