Putting Yourself Out There Isn’t Easy Anymore:
Putting Yourself Out There Isn’t Easy Anymore:
These days, putting yourself out there—whether as an advocate, an influencer, or simply someone trying to bring people together—is far from easy. Access to people seems like an open target, and the moment you step forward with good intentions, you expose yourself to criticism, ridicule, or worse.
I’ve seen too many advocates and influencers lost to suicide, depression, and bullying. My condolences go out to their families and friends, because I know firsthand how isolating and painful that journey can be. As an autistic individual living with several disabilities, I understand how simply being different—and daring to want to help others—can make you a target.
Thankfully, as a survivor of abuse, I’ve developed the stomach to withstand a lot. But that doesn’t mean I’m immune. The last few experiences of mistreatment I’ve endured have still taken a toll. And the harder I try to help my community, the more I see clique-led hate campaigns working to sabotage or stamp me out.
But I refuse to be snuffed out quietly.
If I make mistakes, I’ll own them. Life is full of lessons, and lessons can be blessings. But those who go out of their way to harm others—while hiding behind facades, organisations, titles, or community groups—are the ones who should be held accountable. What many don’t realise is that harmful behaviour follows a pattern. Those who target me will eventually do the same to others.
And so, I continue.
I’m proud of the fact that, despite the hate, I’ve kept moving forward. I give a voice to those who feel silenced by fear of the same treatment I face every day. I’ve made myself someone unafraid to confront hostility on the path to success, community protection, and advocacy. I won’t be for everyone—and I’ll never pretend to be. But I know people can learn from me: compassion, dedication, support, and authenticity.
I remain unbiased and loyal to my town. I’ll even include posts from those who have harmed me, because my commitment is to fairness and truth. But what I won’t do is recommend people or places that pose safeguarding issues—past or present. My community comes first, even if some choose to hate me for it.
Recently, I took back the reins of a community page I created on Facebook two years ago, Aycliffe Uncensored. I did so with one clear goal: to ensure every voice in my hometown is heard. Because we all deserve a space to speak—even when we disagree.
And that’s what I’ll continue to fight for.
—Sarah Wingfield ❤️
Independent Disability Advocate
#disabilityinclusion #Community #aycliffeuncensored #strongertogether #disability #disabilityawareness #disabilitysupport #disabilityrights
Alt text:
A motivational quote is overlaid on a photo of a seagull flying upward against a bright blue sky. The text reads:
“Freedom isn’t always about running away — sometimes it’s about rising above. Like a seagull carried by the wind, we’re not tied to where we’ve been. The sky is wide, the air is open, and our wings are stronger than we think.”
At the top left and bottom right are heart-shaped logos with the words “Kawaii Doll Decora.” At the bottom, the text reads: “@KawaiiDollDecora.”
