THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT

The Benefit of the Doubt

When Max Stone asked me to write the foreword to his life story I was both surprised and honoured.

I first met Max in August,1992 when I started the “DEB course”. I took an instant liking to him because of his quick wit, his ability for making quick comebacks and humorous comments when you are talking to him.

When I read his book I discovered that we have a few things in common. In the book, Max tells some funny stories about falling over and getting himself into some embarrassing situations. He has knocked himself unconscious. I’m always falling over too, but unlike Max, I have never knocked myself out. The most damage I’ve ever done broken my nose.

Max also relates the difficulties he has when he goes out into the community. Having a speech problem, it’s often hard for Max to make himself understood. People sometimes don’t take the time to listen, or they assume that he is intellectually disabled. I too, can identify with this situation as I have a speech impediment.

I enjoyed Max’s Book very much. It is extremely entertaining and informative, especially as it is written from disabled person’s perspective. Max describes the difficulties he has faced with nursing homes, both costs involved, and conditions. He also discusses issues such as public transport and sheltered employment

I hope that many people will read and enjoy this book as I have. I also hope that when read it people will learn that all disabled are not the same, and not to automatically assume that we all have intellectual disabilities.

Yours sincerely

Janette Carey