ABC Podcasts
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Jess ditches the leg
Jess ditches the leg
Jess ditches the leg
Tuesday 25th June 2024
Join Jess Walton as they share their journey from childhood cancer survivor to embracing their true self, rejecting societal norms and finding self-acceptance.
23 minutes
Inspiring
Honest
Raw
Hopeful
Empathetic
About this podcast
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ABC Podcasts
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Success Stories
Relationships & Community
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Family Recovery from Addiction
Comedic Journeys
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Get the buttons here!Jess Walton: Embracing Authenticity and Rejecting Societal Norms
Episode Overview
- Jess shares their journey from childhood cancer survivor to amputee.
- They discuss the pressures of being seen as an 'inspiring' disabled person.
- A pivotal podcast episode changes Jess's perspective on disability.
- Jess embraces their identity as a non-binary individual.
- They find new ways to navigate life without conforming to societal expectations.
I don't think I want to wear a leg anymore. I don't think I have to.
Jess Walton's journey from childhood cancer survivor to amputee is nothing short of remarkable. In this episode of Days Like These, you'll hear Jess recount their story of resilience, self-discovery, and ultimately, self-acceptance. As a young child, Jess was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, leading to the amputation of their leg. Despite the challenges, they became an 'inspiring disabled speaker,' but this role came with its own set of pressures and expectations.
Jess felt the weight of having to be a beacon of inspiration while grappling with their own struggles and pain. Through candid reflections and heartfelt anecdotes, Jess shares how they transitioned from hiding their disability to embracing it fully. A pivotal moment comes when Jess listens to a podcast featuring disability activist Jack's Jackie Brown, which shifts their perspective on disability and self-worth.
This newfound understanding propels Jess to reject societal expectations and embrace their true self, both as a non-binary individual and as someone who doesn't need to conform to traditional notions of mobility. Jess's story is a powerful reminder that you don't have to fit into a mould to be whole. With humour, honesty, and raw emotion, this episode is an inspiring listen for anyone facing their own battles or supporting someone who is.