“Something I want to pass on to others like me…
I was working as a Production Assistant on a commercial set when, in the middle of a shoot day, I received news that would set my life on an altered trajectory. I was told I had MS (multiple sclerosis). Not only was I given this disorienting news, I was overtly warned by doctors to keep this monumental part of myself a secret or risk my emerging career.
The bizarre combination of fear and privilege I lived with in my invisibly disabled body while I worked to make sure my diagnosis didn’t slip was more exhausting than the longest day on set could ever be. Moving from one series to the next, my hard work was paying off, but I could never truly rest and, over time, I began to feel detached from the industry I loved.
A decade passed before I began to talk about my health openly with trusted colleagues and, looking back now, I wish I had set aside that shame-inducing advice much earlier. Today, my transparency has only brought me closer to the teams I collaborate with, the rich community of disabled creators I am a part of, and the goals I have set for myself.
Hold on to your truth, find your people and tell your stories”.
Meagan McAteer (@Megsmcateer) is a Director, Writer and Producer with 20 years of industry experience across all aspects of production in documentary, competition and lifestyle television series with major networks in Canada and the US. Throughout her career, her passion for storytelling has never wavered, and she continues to pursue personal and independent projects whenever possible.
DSO Spotlight is our way of celebrating the contributions of disabled creatives across the screen industry and making space for their work to be seen and valued. Share this article to help us amplify Meagan’s work!
