AN INSPIRATIONAL campaigner from Rubery is helping the Birmingham Hospice understand how to better support people with learning difficulties by sharing his own personal experience.
Curtis Pugh, 29, addressed hospice health advocates and representatives from other teams to share his perspective on autism, ADHD and mental health.
His aim was to raise awareness of these hidden disabilities and highlight the Sunflower lanyard worn by those diagnosed with a range of unseen illnesses.
Curtis was inspired by the Oliver McGowan training which ensures people with a learning disability receive the correct care and treatment.
Training is mandatory for Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered organisations, such as the Birmingham Hospice, and is the result of a tireless campaign by Oliver’s parents to ensure there is no repeat of the events which led to his tragic death.
Curtis, who lives with his dad Stephen, learned about it from clinical support assistant Kate Miley and has put together an eye-catching display and presentation.
‘Raising awareness’
Curtis, who received abuse during the pandemic as his condition prevented him wearing a mask, said: “It’s about raising awareness of people with autism and ADHD, and letting them know about the Sunflower lanyard
“The Oliver McGowan training was an inspiration to me – I wondered if I could combine it with my experiences and make it my own.
“If I can help even one person then my work will be done.”
He will also talk about his own mental health issues after his mum Tracey lost her breast cancer battle in May 2016.
Kate said Curtis was an inspiration to so many and what he could teach was amazing.
Curtis is also working closely with the hospice’s education and research team, which coordinates training.
His experience builds on the Oliver McGowan course, and it is hoped he will give more talks in the future.
‘An inspirational figure’
Hilary Murray, education and research team head, said: “Curtis is an inspiration, and his presentation is a very powerful way of ensuring people with learning difficulties, like autism and ADHD, are heard and receive the care they need.”
Both Curtis and Stephen are long-time hospice supporters after Tracey was cared for by the Inpatient Unit (IPU) in 2016.
They started charity Tracey’s Dream and Friends in her honour, where they provided a holiday caravan free of charge for cancer patients.
The pair have also donated thousands of pounds to the hospice and regularly support events held by the Living Well Centre.
The dynamic father and son duo continue to raise funds for good causes and donate comfort bears to Birmingham Children’s Hospital’s cancer ward, with Curtis dressing up in a variety of superhero costumes.
Stephen said: “People don’t see all the work that goes into caring for patients at Birmingham Hospice.
“Everyone here is kind, caring and will do anything they can to help.”
