Disabled as a result of childhood meningitis, Paul Hodgson has written
this autobiography in order to challenge the stereotype of the
wheelchair-bound victim. Far from being a passive spectator, we learn
how Paul struggled to care for his mother through several strokes and
Alzheimer's disease and of the rift this caused within his family. He
also speaks of the Community Care system, his experiences of education
and employment, and the loyalty of his friends. This is his account of
life as a fan of Darlington Football Club which reveals another side to
Paul's nature, with its fascinating compendium of mishaps and
drink-fueled escapades, which are invariably laced with his own brand of
black humour. Give Them Wings is a graphic story of one man's fortitude
in the face of severe odds, it offers a unique insight into what it
means to be disabled in modern society. The book ties in with a
blockbuster film of his life, Give Them Wings, directed by Sean Cronin
and due to be released in summer 2021. The film won the "Best Feature"
at The London Independent Film Festival and stars Daniel Watson (as
Paul) together with Toyah Wilcox.
