Stories through song

by Cathy Mungall-Baldwin, a guest contributor

I have lived with dyslexia and dyspraxia all my life although I was only identified at the age of 42. I have a range of disabilities – two hip replacements following Avascular Necrosis (a bone decomposing condition), a spinal injury and chronic disease of the arteries (Fibromuscular Dysplasia) which caused a stroke in February 2022.

This made my dyslexia more severe and left me with severe chronic fatigue, a short-term memory impairment and reduced concentration. I’m a singer-songwriter and have written an album reflecting on how my impairments have shaped my life experiences. I sing my songs and play flute in my band Jelephant who gig around Scotland.

Jelephant is a 6-piece folk-pop band with a jazzy fusion. As well as singing my own songs in English, I sing folk songs in Icelandic, Finnish, and Sámi. We were called “a band to watch for the future” by Ian Oliphant on Celtic Music Radio FM when he played our demo.

I continue to live a fulfilling life despite my restrictions. I’m a great advocate for myself and others with my conditions, and I love to share my story to give hope and inspiration to others.
Whilst I do feel disadvantaged in life by all the challenges to my health, I also feel very lucky that I’m naturally empathetic towards all people.