Sunflowers

The sunflower lanyard was first introduced in the UK in 2016. It is a symbol for hidden or invisible disabilities, like the one Leonor has. It is a discreet, but visible way to signal to other people that you are disabled and might need extra assistance, extra time or have other needs.https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/about-hidden-disabilities-sunflowerIt is mainly used in public transport, such as airports or railways. This makes it easier for people with disabilities to navigate these spaces.

Invisible disabilities can include osteoporosis, like Leonor has, but also a variety of other illnesses. Mental illnesses, such as ADHD or autism, are examples of mental illnesses, diseases that are not immediately noticed in someone. Respiratory diseases or diabetes are examples of physical disabilities that are generally also invisible.

The sunflower lanyard is just one way of making a disability visible; there are many others. A person who might need a mobility aid such as a cane, can also make their disability visible through the use of that cane, even if they might not necessarily need it on that day.