My name is Vicki Dennis, I’m 37 years old from Berkshire and I’m living with a life-limiting condition called congenital muscular dystrophy. It’s a muscle-wasting disease which is affecting my whole body. I've been self-isolating for six weeks and I've found it very challenging.
I’ve been constantly worrying about my family and friends because some of them are still having to go out to do normal things such as shopping, and they could easily pick up the virus.
But I've been trying to keep positive and have been making sure that I speak to friends and family every day, not just for me but to see if they’re okay. I'm not able to help much, but I can be there if they need to talk.
I’ve lived with my partner, Keegan, for 17 years. He's my main carer, looking after me twenty-four hours a day, with some help from others. I'm also supported by the specialists at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, I go into their specialist ward once a year where I see all of the specialists. In normal times I see the physios, heart specialist, breathing specialist and speech and language team. They all make sure that I am being treated to their best ability.
Netflix has been a godsend. I've watched some really good series, including Tiger King.
Muscular Dystrophy UK is an amazing charity which I have been involved with throughout my life. They were there for my parents when I was born with the condition and their advocacy team have helped me on many occasions through the years.
Trailblazers
Vicki became a trailblazer five years ago for MDUK and was proud to be awarded Trailblazer of the Year in 2017.
I started campaigning to help change the view people have towards disabled people. We are committed to challenging the barriers in society which stop us from living full and independent lives.
I have spoken in parliament several times, and have commented on numerous campaigns, such as sports stadiums becoming more disabled friendly.
I have given presentations to important MDUK partners, for example the FC Premiership and Formula One. We have worked hard to deliver our message on how hard it is for disabled people to access football matches.
In her capacity as a Trailblazer, Vicki is contacting celebrities inviting them to do a short Instagram live interview with her, comparing lockdown stories, to help build awareness and fundraising for MDUK.
Do you have a story of share of life in lockdown? Send your story to us.
Trailblazers has now moved to pan-disability charity Whizz-Kidz (September 2020).