Stroke survivor's lived experience inspires Suffolk's first Disability Pride event

Why it matters: Disability Pride Month is marked every July to celebrate diversity and raise awareness, but Suffolk has never held its own dedicated event – until now.

The big picture: The inaugural event, taking place on Friday, 11 July, will transform Felixstowe's promenade into a celebration of diversity and inclusion, featuring a parade and trade exhibition aimed at showcasing services that improve the lives of disabled people.

Behind the event: The event is being organised by Suffolk Mobility Events and UK Ducks In A Row. Clare Lucas, co-director of the company, called it a “chance for people with disabilities to come together and celebrate being themselves, no matter their differences.”

For co-director Ian Bell, it's a "deeply personal" project. His wife, Glynis, known as G, suffered a stroke just eight weeks after their wedding in 2012.

"From that day, our lives changed, and I started to understand the difficulties faced by people who have experienced sudden trauma," he said.

A special location: The choice of Felixstowe carries special significance for the couple. It was here that G walked for the first time since her stroke 12 years ago, during their visit in 2024.

Event details:

• Starts at 11:30 at SeaYou Café & Restaurant
• Procession along the promenade
• Ends at Felixstowe Leisure Centre with trade exhibition
• Proceeds will benefit ActivLives and Suffolk Mind

"This is a celebration of resilience and community, and I hope it inspires others to recognise the value of inclusion and accessibility," Bell said.

How to get involved: Click here to reserve a place at the event. To contact the organisers or sponsor the event, please email felixstowedisabilitypride@gmail.com

The bottom line: While Disability Pride events have been held across the UK since 2014, this marks Suffolk's first celebration – transforming a personal journey of recovery into a community-wide celebration of diversity and resilience.