15/10/2025
As an Occupational Therapist (OT) in Sensational Kids in Clonakilty, I am fortunate to work with some amazing children, families, and colleagues. My job is fantastic as it encourages interaction and connection, which allows me to get to know these kids and see what makes them shine. Many of the children I work with don't use words to communicate, but that does not mean they don't have anything to say. A big part of communication comes from our facial expressions, gestures, postures, and behaviours. Some people use assistive technology, sign language, Lámh or many other ways to communicate their needs, while others are only beginning their journey. As this is an area that many people are unfamiliar with, I'm taking part in Say Hey Your Way, to help raise awareness of the different ways of connecting with those around us, when speaking is not easily available. To spread awareness, I have set myself the challenge of using non-verbal communication for a full 24-hour period from Friday 17th of October at 3 p.m. until Saturday 18th. This means no talking at all in shops, petrol stations, interacting with friends and family, attending martial arts class, medical appointments, etc. As a total Waffle Queen, this will be a very difficult challenge for me, but still nowhere near as difficult or frustrating as the everyday struggles of those who communicate differently in a verbal world.
In addition to raising awareness, I hope to raise funds for Sensational Kids, a not-for-profit social enterprise that relies on fundraising to keep the four clinics running. All funds raised here will go directly back into Sensational Kids so we can continue to work with these amazing children and their families. If you don't want to, or can't sponsor me, then consider challenging yourself to try non-verbal communication with your family, housemates, friends or colleagues, or in shops, to see how you get on. You might surprise yourself when you have to stop and really pay attention to those around you.
I hope you can help me by donating whatever you can. Simply click the Donate button above. All donations are processed securely.
You can also share my page using Share options below. This is a great way to show your support.
Many thanks for your support folks!
Love
Karyn- OThttps://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/karynandharveyobrien-walters
Karyn's Fundraising Page for Sensational Kids, created by Karyn O’Brien | iDonate.ie
