You wouldn’t think not having an internet connection at home would be that big a deal, would you? For most people these days, the ‘net is a very useful tool, but it’s hardly the be-all and end all of existence. After all, for your average able-bodied person, there are other ways of keeping in contact with your friends and family, checking the news, and of watching television and staying entertained. Most people can use phones, read newspapers or just pop on the telly. For me, though, with the way I currently have things set up in my flat, things are different: I use my computer and internet connection for everything, from chatting to my friends to relaxing in the evening to getting berated by my parents. I chose not to set up a TV in my new flat because I found it simpler just to watch the box via websites like Iplayer, 4OD and netflix.

The last 48 hours or so have really put just how much I need an internet connection into perspective. It’s difficult to explain how powerless I have felt: whenever I have needed to check my emails or messages, or send a message to anyone, I’ve had to go through the complex process of leaving my flat to find a Wifi network I can access with my ipad. I haven’t been able to access Facebook, Youtube, or do any of the things I fill my online life with. It has been oddly depressing and alienating, like an addict forced to come off some potent drug, or as if all contact with the outside world has become a hundred times harder. Even worse was not knowing when someone would be able to come to repair it; being afraid to venture out on my usual rolls in case someone turned up and I was not here.

Yet I must keep reminding myself that there are far worse predicaments to be in than not having access to the internet. I have a warm flat, full stomach and loaded fridge. All problems eventually get put right, sooner or later. I cannot moan. As you can see, the technicians came and got me back online eventually. Reading them back, the above two paragraphs seem a bit silly. Even so, the last couple of days have really made it clear what a big part of my life the internet now is, both as a disabled man and more generally.