Cirdan Youth View member Chloe shares her experience of being neurodiverse

Chloe, Chairman of the Cirdan Youth View forum, has a passion for helping others like herself and is keen to give them reassurance before they join a voyage. Chloe has epilepsy and ADHD, and is very open about her conditions and how they haven’t stopped her from pursuing her love for the outdoors, especially sailing. Chloe has sailed many times with Cirdan, starting as part of a group from the specialist education centre she attended at 14 years old.

”Never say you can’t do something without trying. When I first came on the boat I thought I would be treated differently because in the eyes of some neurotypical people they may see me as different and sometimes labelled as a problem child, but not with Cirdan.

”With having ADHD, I felt quite nervous but also so happy I was engaging in a new activity after also being recently diagnosed with epilepsy, I felt so restricted. Joining the boats I felt so incredibly nervous that I might have a seizure and the crew not knowing what to do, and after having two seizures I felt more safe knowing even with having seizures I was still able to join in. The crew were so great and helped me when needed, and checked on me throughout the voyage.”

All of Cirdan’s crew are first aid trained and equipped to deal with medical events at sea. We can tailor our voyages depending on the needs and abilities of everyone onboard.