A Tribute to Jonathan Bryan, A Person That Changed the World

It was sadly announced on X today that fellow Diana Award Recipient Jonathan Bryan has sadly passed away.

Max pays tribute to the incredible Jonathan Bryan, the inspirational young man behind Eye Can Talk and Eye Can Read. Jonathan’s story touched hearts across the world, breaking barriers and transforming the way people understand communication, inclusion, and the true power of determination.

Born with cerebral palsy and unable to speak, Jonathan found his voice through his eyes spelling out words using eye movements to share his thoughts, feelings, and dreams. Through his writing, Jonathan showed the world that communication is not limited to speech, and that every person deserves the opportunity to be heard and understood.

His book, Eye Can Write, and his advocacy through Eye Can Read inspired countless people from families and educators to advocates and young readers alike. Jonathan’s words were filled with honesty, wisdom, and hope beyond his years, reminding everyone that disability does not define ability.

Max shared:

“Jonathan Bryan was a true inspiration. I first met Jonathan while doing speeches at Oxford Brookes University and I was introduced to him by Dr Jonathan Reid, I had a bond with Jonathan immediately. The way he used his life to bring awareness, understanding, and change was remarkable. He reminded us all that inclusion means listening really listening to those who communicate differently. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.”

Jonathan’s impact reached far beyond the page. He sparked conversations in schools, influenced policy, and gave a platform to those who too often go unheard. His courage, creativity, and compassion continue to make a difference through the ongoing work of Eye Can Read.

Though Jonathan’s time with us was far too short, his message will live on in classrooms, communities, and hearts around the world. His life reminds us that every voice matters, and that even in silence, we can speak volumes.

With that I will leave you with my all time favourite poem and it just happened to be written by Jonathan.

"We are not capable of learning

So do not tell me

There’s something going on behind the disability.

Treated as useless handicaps

Minds with nothing in there, tragically

Stuck in a wheelchair,

Disabilities visibly crippling –   

Just incontinent and dribbling,

We are not

Academically able.

You should make our minds

Stagnate in special education!

We cannot

Learn to read,

Learn to spell,

Learn to write,

Instead let us

Be constrained by a sensory curriculum.

It is not acceptable to say  

We have the capacity to learn.

School should occupy us, entertain us; but never teach us

You are deluded to believe that

Our education can be looked at another way!

Now read it again from the bottom line up."

Max's response to the news on X

News of Jonathans Passing below.