Human, Anyway: An Introduction

Hi there! Welcome to my brand new blog and podcast series ‘Human, Anyway’, where I interview inspiring people who share their life through written and spoken word.

I have been so excited to begin this project, for quite some time, so for me, this marks the beginning of something beautiful. 

Not only does this series highlight how society perceived those of who, put simply, just don’t fit the mould, but it also casts a light on how new relationships with those who have similar experiences can provide us with a feeling of safety and show us we are seen. 

Growing up, I battled with the idea of being different, because of my own disabilities. I fought with the principle of ‘having labels’. Why did I have to be different. Why must I live my life with the burden of minor tasks being a mammoth challenge? 

Those of you who have followed me for a while, whether on social media, or know me personally, might know some of my story. And if you don’t, here’s a little about me and why I have such a strong desire to create a new space for people who feel they don’t belong in already existing communities. 

As a child, I was adopted from Russia by my beautiful loving parents. Not only did I now have a place to finally call home, but was also reunited with my biological sister. Incredible considering the infinite possibilities of my story going in a different direction. 

There were noticeable difficulties growing up. Never fitting in, a lack of social understanding, attachment issues and of course hearing loss. Through the years that followed, after many appointments and testing, I was diagnosed with a number of disabilities. 

I received my first pair of hearing aids when I was around 10 years old. ‘Ugly bits of plastic’ I remembered thinking to myself. Never could I have imagined that now as a twenty something ear old, I would pair my bi-cros aid with a slick back bun, for the whole world to see. Quite unashamedly. 

It wasn’t just my hearing (balance issues etc.) that impacted my life as a whole (I’m sure I will discuss that in a different blog), but my other main diagnosis. FASD. Most people, including medical professionals, don’t even know what that term means. It stands for ‘Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder’, in short, brain damage caused through alcohol consumed by the parent during pregnancy. 

I have watched my parents, especially my mum, fight for the right to education and inclusion, for countless years. Sometimes for just awareness, understanding, and human decency – you would think that would be a given, right? No. Growing up I learnt, that those around us, whether individuals or bodies of people (educational settings, organisations…) just aren’t always equipped to ‘deal’ with people who don’t fit the everyday mould. People like me. 

So that’s how my story began! My interest in inclusion, doesn’t just stem with working and tutoring neurodiverse and / or disabled individuals, but from personal experience. 

Make sure to subscribe, so you don’t miss each episode of this new blog and podcast series. Until next time… 

Adel, author

What is Human, Anyway?

Human, Anyway: Stories of Life Beyond the Mould

A space for stories that challenge what ‘normal’ means.

Human, Anyway is a collection of personal stories, interviews, and reflections from people living with disabilities and neurodiversity.

Through writing and shared conversation, it shines a light on the everyday challenges, and quiet triumphs – of navigating education, work, healthcare, and society when you don’t fit the “standard” mould.

It’s about visibility, voice, and the power of being unapologetically yourself.