How my fight for inclusive access to a soccer stadium paid off

As a Duchenne muscular dystrophy survivor, I’ve spent much of my life on the outside looking in, especially when it comes to public events like concerts and sporting events.

My condition affects not only my ability to move but also my breathing. I rely on a BiPAP ventilator 24/7, and someone must always be by my side. So going to a crowded stadium has always felt like a far-off dream. But recently, that changed.

Singapore’s Lion City Sailors had qualified for the final of the AFC Champions League Two, Asian soccer’s second-tier continental club competition, becoming the first local team in history to reach that stage. I’ve followed their underdog journey for months. When the news broke that the final would be held at Bishan Stadium, just 15 minutes from my home, I dared to hope.

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My body may be fragile, but my spirit has always held on tightly to soccer. Like many others with Duchenne, I’ve had to grieve the things I used to be able to do, such as walking, kicking a ball, drawing, and holding a paintbrush. Watching soccer has provided me with comfort and excitement during those moments of loss.

But being physically present at a soccer match? That remained out of reach.

When tickets went on sale for the match, I contacted the ticketing agent to ask for wheelchair-accessible seating. I was told that a wheelchair bay did exist, but caregivers weren’t allowed to sit beside the wheelchair users, a rule that excluded fans like me entirely. With my breathing requirements, I simply can’t be alone in a crowd. The news was devastating, and within hours, the match sold out, leaving me feeling isolated and excluded.

Instead of letting it go, I wrote a letter to a local English-language newspaper drawing attention to the issue, not because I was seeking sympathy, but because I wanted to prompt change. I was determined to make a difference and ensure that no one else would face the same barriers I did. My resolve was unwavering, and I was ready to fight for the rights of all disabled fans.

A seat at the game — and in society

To my astonishment, the Sailors’ sporting director reached out personally. He apologized for the initial response and took immediate action to rectify the situation. He said the team would try to help, and true to his words, their head of operations contacted me. Even though the match had sold out, they made space for me, my caregiver, and my dad by providing two portable chairs at the wheelchair bay. This individual’s actions made a significant difference in my experience and are a powerful example of how one person’s efforts can promote inclusion.

On match night last Sunday, I rolled into Bishan Stadium not as an outlier, but as a welcomed guest. Unfortunately, the Sailors lost, but it didn’t matter to me. Just being there, cheering among the crowd and witnessing Singaporean soccer history, was worth it. It felt like I belonged and was part of something bigger than myself. It felt like reclaiming something my disability had taken from me: participation, pride, and presence. This sense of belonging was a powerful testament to the transformative power of inclusion.

I left the stadium with more than memories. I left with proof that when event organizers truly listen and act, inclusion becomes possible, not just for me, but for every disabled fan out there. The Sailors’ actions have made a difference in my life and set a powerful example for others. Their efforts have shown that with understanding and proactive measures, barriers can be broken and inclusion can be a reality for all.

I’ll never forget that night, not because of the score, but because for once my condition didn’t exclude me from participating.

Note: Muscular Dystrophy News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Muscular Dystrophy News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to muscular dystrophy.