Series 1, Episode 6: May 12th – Disability, The Invisible Menopause

In this episode, we hear Alison Lapper’s account of menopause, living with phocomelia, a disability that means she has no arm limbs and shortened leg limbs. Alison has had her fair share of knocks and bumps in life. Rejected at birth by her mother, she grew up in various institutions before moving to London and learning about life. She discovered her gift of art and is a hand and foot artist and has been awarded an MBE. Mark Quinn's sculpture of Alison naked and pregnant was displayed on the fourth plinth of Trafalgar Square for some time.

Life continues to be a challenge for Alison with hot flushes, night sweats and other aspects of menopause, alongside dealing with the grief of losing her son, Parys, 18 months to an accidental drug overdose.  Alison shares her story with humour and warmth, alongside her tools and super powers that have kept her going.  

For those transitioning through menopause with a disability, the experience can be tough. Physical disability can make hot flushes and joint pain more intense, dealing with disability alongside issues such as incontinence and vaginal atrophy. Since this interview, it’s become clear how little research and support there is around menopause for those with disabilities. If you’re a clinician or a someone with a disability that would like to advocate with us on this, please get in touch. Check out The Outsiders, Lifestyle magazine and Scope for support.

If you're not already, join our community on Instagram or request to join our private Facebook group. Want to get more tips on how to become a Change Maker? Sign up to our monthly newsletter here and visit our menopause website to book a Menopause Masterclass, sign up to our next Take Charge of Change programme or experience menopause coaching.

Thanks to Susannah Lawrence for producing this episode.

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