Live Blog

This live blog is about celebrating the inspirational stories and achievements of individuals all over the world who have overcome their ‘different ability’, impairment, stunted growth or otherwise to prove misconceptions are wrong and equality and diversity is the way forward… please enjoy, share and comment thank you …
What’s your super power? by Kate Mackenzie
Wonderfully heartwarming story – Kate talks about her son Alfie who has Down Syndrome with so much love. It is inspiring how she wants to promote more inclusion and a better future for him, but how can you resist that smile!
Joe Fautley’s Story
Joe is an inspirational individual who is passionate about advocating for others with Autism…he is very honest, eloquent and articulate in relating his story and is a wonderful role model for diversity…indeed a worthy candidate for the national diversity awards, so do take the time to give him your vote! He certainly gets mine…keep shining Joe…:-)
#ShineBrightCreateLight – Every Second Counts and Every Day Matters by Rachel Holt
I felt I needed time to reflect on what I have been through over the last few years. Puttingthings in a box was not the best idea and having a beautiful little daughter also had not givenme much time to think or rest myself, as I perhaps should have done. I am so...
Hot Radio Podcast announcing Shades of Different Charity Status – 5th April 2022
Martyn The Hat interviews Erika Petrie and Simon Frankland about Shades of Different and their newly granted charity status. Erika explains their plans for Shades of Different moving forward and how they aim to help Micaela and other differently able children. Simon...
BBC Radio Solent Interview with Steve Harris – 21 March 2022 (WDSD)
Steve Harris interviews Samantha Samways with Down Syndrome and her mum Sandra, about her hobbies and aspirations and subsequently talks to Erika Petrie about how Shades of Different came about and their plans once it has become a charity, as well as their big charity...
Dexter’s Story by Ali Filer
Ali Filer makes the very valid point about her son Dexter not being his diagnosis or label but a person first and foremost. She also clarifies the fact that Down Syndrome is not something you suffer from as such, it is simply a developmental delay not an illness! In fact individuals with Down Syndrome are able to live better than we do because they appreciate the here and now more than we ever will!
Donate Now!
As of 31st March 2022, Shades of Different is now officially registered as a charity incorporated organisation (charity no: 1198481). We aim to raise funds to provide vital therapies and promote better inclusion for differently able children, initially in Dorset and hopefully spreading to other parts of the UK in the future. Please donate as little or as much as you can, knowing that this will really make a difference to these children who really deserve it and can help to make our world a better place.
Thank you