Photo credit: Murray McMillan Photography

World Dyslexia Day, marked each year on 8th October each year, shines a light on the strengths and challenges of people living with dyslexia and other neurodiverse conditions. It’s a day dedicated to raising awareness, promoting understanding, and celebrating the creativity and resilience that often come with thinking differently.

At The Fuze Foundation, we share these values of inclusion, compassion, and empowerment, recognising that everyone deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are.

Photo credit: Murray McMillan Photography

Below, our Inverclyde based celebrant Alan Deeney tells his story.

I went through primary and secondary school with no support. Deep down, as a teenager, I knew something wasn’t right. But without answers, I drifted into dead-end and temporary jobs, often losing them because I couldn’t meet the standards some employers expected.

I was mocked. I was looked down on. I was misunderstood by professionals, by friends, and by those closest to me. And yet… I never gave up.

With time, I chose to surround myself with people who never turned their backs on me – those who accepted me as I am. And with their support, I’ve grown stronger.

At 32, I finally learned that I have dyslexia, dyscalculia, and Meares-Irlen Syndrome. That moment didn’t define my limits, it opened doors. Today, I hold a degree in Mental Health Nursing, a diploma in Humanist Celebrancy, and I have the confidence to speak publicly and proudly.

I don’t carry bitterness towards those who mocked me. Instead, I want to use my story to say this:

> It’s okay to be different.
> It’s okay to struggle.
> It’s okay to protect your energy and keep some people at a distance.

Photo credit: Clyde Photos Ltd

I am proud to be me. And if you’re reading this and see yourself in my story, please know you are not alone.

Blog written and created by Alan Deeney Fuze Celebrant

Contact Dyslexia Scotland for support and advice

At the Fuze Foundation, we believe in celebrating every individual’s uniqueness, supporting one another, and creating communities where everyone can thrive. Alan’s journey embodies these values perfectly, showing that with understanding, acceptance, and encouragement, we can overcome challenges and embrace our true selves.

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