An ode to special people

by Roy Paton, a guest contributor

Roy’s poem reflects on the transformation in confidence that a dyslexia identification brought him

The brain in my head was in such a mess I also found it difficult to write
Deep inside I was so full of stress but nobody could imagine my plight!

You look at me no one would know how much my life was a struggle
The problems I had learning at school with most subjects I just had to juggle.

My friends thought they were cool, “That’s him – he’s dim – he’s just a fool!”
“Can’t add up! – Can’t spell! Can’t write!

How cruel when I was desperate to be normal – just to be able!
But my parents knew best they sent me for a test
Dyslexic – that was my label!

Then one day luck came my way a shot putt was placed in my hand
I hurled it a mile it made me smile it made me feel so grand!

Athletics I had found well I’ll be bound something I really was good at
I jumped and I ran and I ran and I said to myself
“You can do it! – you know that you can!”
Every school record I broke!

When I look back there on the track it’s like a dream almost a joke
I then achieved a University Degree
Dyslexic! What’s that? I don’t understand not me!!

To all dyslexic people follow my lead just find something you’re good at
“Go for it” I plead
“You know that you can”!

Our dyslexia won’t go away just put it into perspective that’s all I can say!!
Then like me you’ll feel free!

“That’s him!! Look at him isn’t he fun? He’s no fool he’s really cool!”
Some time ago playing rugby for Harlequins at Twickenham I had to laugh
I was even asked for my autograph!!

But that is my plight – I find it difficult to write!!
Good luck dyslexics everywhere
We are very special people!!