Written by Munaza Rafiq, Disability Producer
Dani Czernuszka-Watt recalls a heartbreaking memory of being put to sleep for an abortion she never wanted. The agony she experienced as a wheelchair user during the ordeal left her traumatized. Facing complications from a previous pregnancy, Dani was informed she had to terminate her fourth pregnancy. This came after her paralysis from the waist down due to a rugby tackle in 2017.
Discovering para ice hockey as a way to stay active following her injuries, Dani found herself competing around the world with Team GB. However, in 2023, chronic pain led her to hospitalization in Bangkok, where she was later diagnosed with pelvic congestion syndrome. The syndrome was a source of chronic pain for Dani, but doctors failed to mention the impact it could have on future pregnancies.
Despite her initial joy at discovering she was pregnant again, Dani had to face the reality of a medical termination due to complications caused by the pelvic condition. Dealing with immense guilt and shame, Dani reached out to the British Pregnancy Advisory Service for assistance, only to face concerns about accommodation for a wheelchair user during the procedure.
On the day of the abortion, accessing the clinic through a goods lift reserved for deliveries, Dani’s experience highlighted the challenges disabled individuals face in accessing healthcare. Battling everyday barriers to adequate care, Dani is now campaigning for improved accessibility to healthcare for disabled women. Despite the obstacles she has encountered, Dani is determined to raise awareness and fight for equal access to healthcare for all
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