Leading Writer Rebecca 'Bex' Fyans MBE, Advocate for Down Syndrome & Naval Servicewoman of the Year.
“It’s not something to be scared of… they are a little bit different, but with the right care and nourishment they can thrive and they can be awesome.”When Bex’s son was born with Down’s Syndrome, being his advocate became her sense of purpose.Since then, Bex has helped to support other families who have children with Down’s and has been working to raise awareness; volunteering with the Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association, Chronic Conditions and Disability in Defence Network (CanDiD) and the Royal Navy Disability Network/Team - working to shine “a spotlight on disability and carers in the Armed Forces”.Which leads us on to ‘Lots of Socks’… “What have socks got to do with any of this?” you might ask. World Down Syndrome Day on 21 March of course!So this is why we’ve been posting photos onto social media of ourselves wearing odd socks, thousands have been uploaded globally – the odd socks are signifying the uniqueness of having three copies of Chromosone 21, which causes Down’s Syndrome.Bex’s passion for making a change has been recognised with an MBE for her work with inclusion and diversity in the MOD and the local community; and Bex was recently awarded Naval Servicewoman of the Year.Bravo Zulu Bex!Hosted by Steve Bomford and Mike Davis-Marks.Find out more about the Company of Makers or sign up to our newsletter.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.This podcast is supported by the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.If you’re a member of the Armed Forces community and need support with your mental health, Op Courage can help. Or you could phone the Combat Stress Helpline on: 0800 138 1619Company of Makers exists to support veterans and their families who are struggling on civvy street no matter how long ago they left the armed forces.We do this by running a programme of Podcasts | Talks | Workshops.Company of Makers are trying to reach, and better understand, all members of the armed forces community who are also gamers. We’re especially interested in those that have served in conflicts over the last 30 years.To find out more contact us.