Rupturing Concepts of Disability and Inclusion

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I came to this task of conceiving and developing this research as a mother of four
children. However, no prior knowledge of conception, gestation, labour or birth
could have prepared me for the commitment I had undertaken. Although many
long, lonely, and sometimes painful hours have been spent on this research, I also
have had the privilege and enjoyment of much support, encouragement and
affection from colleagues, friends and family. To all that have contributed, I
express my heartfelt appreciation and thanks.
Specifically, though, I thank the birth attendants. Trevor Jordan, Lesley Chenoweth,
David Massey, Peter Isaacs, and Colleen Geyer, as colleagues who have not only
helped me learn the craft of researching ethics and disability, but have also provided
me with profound guidance, care, and nurture during this (sometimes chaotic)
journey. For their ability to do this without ever diminishing my passion, or
expecting me to ‘conform’ to rationalist procedures and methods, is testament to
the richness of the encouragement they have offered me. For their scholarship, and
their willingness to share knowledge, I am deeply, and soulfully, thankful.
The publication of this research as a book has come to fruition by the
encouragement and support of my colleagues at Griffith University. Naomi
Sunderland is responsible for initiating the process; and Natalie Clements has spent
much time preparing the manuscript for publication. I am indebted to their
commitment and am profoundly thankful.
During the long, journey, friends and extended family have been a precious
source of support, affection, provision and comfort. To my friends from whom I
have learnt to understand more about disability, I am extremely grateful. I
especially thank Julie and Graham for their permission to share some of their story
to tell my story. I am particularly appreciative of my many friends I have engaged
with within the disability context
Family has also been an important source of care. For my parents, Ruth and
Kevin Clapton, I am eternally thankful. For the support offered by Wayne and Kay
Clapton, Maurice and Ruth Harriman, John and Sandra Harriman, and Peter and
Leanne Harriman, I am very appreciative.
Finally, I thank my husband Robert Harriman, and my children Sarah, Innes,
Kate and Luke Harriman. These are last not because of insignicance, rather because
words simply cannot express my appreciation for their contribution to this
achievement. Years of sacrifice, tolerance and understanding towards the gestation
of the metaphorical sibling, have indeed been a precious gift. My hope is that all
will share some joy from my labouring.
To all who I have mentioned, and to those who may have been overlooked, I
offer two words: Thank you.
xv