Ben: Just Watch Me Prove You Wrong

“I might not say things clearly, but I know exactly what I’m talking about.”

Ben is 17, sharp-witted, knowledgeable and proudly sarcastic. He loves making people laugh and when he does, it’s what makes him feel most like himself.

People often make assumptions about Ben before they get to know him. But spend a little time with him and you’ll quickly see something else entirely: humour, intelligence and a personality that refuses to be underestimated.

Just Watch Me Show You Who I Really Am

A typical day for Ben might look quite structured - his mum helps him get ready for college, where he spends time working on life skills, before heading home for dinner, a shower and getting into his pyjamas.

But that’s only part of the story.

Evenings often mean time with his friend Kerry writing scripts together or reaching out to celebrities to see if they’ll answer Ben’s questions. Because Ben isn’t just passing the time - he’s pursuing what he loves.

Just Watch Me Defy Expectations

Many people assumed Ben wouldn’t achieve academically but he proved them wrong by gaining a GCSE in English Literature. It’s moments like this that challenge the assumptions people make about him. Because while his speech may be unclear and he’s a full-time wheelchair user requiring 24/7 care, Ben is, in his own words, “a typical 17-year-old boy.”

And like any teenager, he wants to make his own choices.

“Life would be fairer if I could decide things for myself.”

Often, decisions about plans are made for him due to care needs, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have opinions, ambitions and a strong sense of what he wants his life to look like.

Just Watch Me Chase My Dreams

Ben’s world is full of film, TV and celebrity culture and he knows everything there is to know about the things that interest him.

“Just watch me meet all of my favourite celebrities and impress them with my knowledge and sense of humour. I just wish I could meet more. My dream is to be in a movie or on TV!”

It’s not just a dream, it’s something he actively works towards, using his creativity and initiative to open doors and start conversations.

Just Watch Me Be Independent

Whizz Kidz has played a big role in Ben’s life, supporting him to become more independent, particularly at college.

“I’m so grateful to be able to choose where I go.”

That independence matters, especially in an environment he finds challenging because he isn’t able to study the course he truly wants. Having control over how he moves through his day has made a real difference.

And when it comes to mobility, Ben has already proven people wrong. Many doubted he’d be able to use a powered wheelchair but with support and determination, he mastered it.

Just Watch Me Change What You Think

For Ben, the biggest challenge isn’t what he can do - it’s what people assume he can’t.

“Don’t judge a book by its cover.”

He wants people to understand that while his communication may be different, his ability to learn, absorb information and form opinions is not limited. Ask him about something he’s passionate about, and he’ll surprise you every time.

Just Watch Me Through Mum’s Eyes

To his mum, Ben is capable, funny and full of ambition.

“He’s at his happiest when he’s talking about films, connecting with celebrities or showing off his incredible knowledge. And time and time again, he proves people wrong -especially those who underestimate his ability to understand and retain information.

Seeing Ben develop independence, particularly at college, means the world because it gives him a sense of control in a setting where he doesn’t always get to choose his path.”

And looking ahead, her hopes are simple but powerful:

With the right support in place, she’d love to see Ben fulfil his dream - appearing on TV and sharing his personality with the world.

Just Watch Me…

“Show you that I know exactly what I’m talking about and make you laugh while I do it.”