The 7 stereotypes country folk have about me as a gypsy – including the truth about why we never go to the doctors
AN IRISH traveller has dished the tea on some of the most common stereotypes country folk have about her community - and which ones are true.
Heidi Clee took to social media where she often shares insight into the traveller community and ways of life.
In the clip, Heidi listed seven stereotypes country folk have and admitted they were true, the first being that traveller people are incredible singers.
"Here are some stereotypes that are true but are actually not that bad," she said.
"Number one, it doesn't apply to me, singing," she added.
"You've never heard singing like traveller/gypsy people, they are unbelievable.
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"And yes, not all can do it it, I am one of the few, but I'm telling you - if they can sing, my god, they can sing."
Sticking with the musical theme - Heidi revealed that they were well known for playing musical instruments such as the flute, fiddle and guitar.
To top it off, she revealed not only where they naturally musically gifted but they also could pick up the skill very quickly.
Heidi also revealed that they rarely send their kids to the doctors if they are ill.
She said: "We just kind of work it out, find out what's going on.
"If someone brings me a child I'm like check this, check that, here's how you get the temperature down.
"We know this because the other women are talking around us and we're picking it up, it's passed on.
"We're better than most doctors, trust me."
In another clip Heidi did clarify that if they were extremely unwell they would go to the doctors - but for common colds and such they prefer to try home remedies first.
One of Heidi's favourite home remedies is getting a bottle of 7up and boiling it for her kids to drink.
She explained: "I think it's the sugar, I think that's what it is, I don't know.
"It does generally work, mine have had it when they're not feeling well and it brings them back round."
Another major stereotype was that you are treated like royalty if you are invited into their homes.
"Our home is your home, so, if there's not enough food or cooking that we can make stretch, but if it's unexpected, if there's not enough to go around nobody is having nothing," she added.
They will always offer their guests a hot drink when they come in as well - and won't take no for an answer.
Heidi also revealed the stereotype of them being the best homemakers was also true.
"Don't forget, we're the kind of people that come from literally having to live on the side of a road and still making that a home," she said.
As well as being the best homemakers, Heidi said her community was the absolute best at telling stories - especially funny ones.
The gypsy woman added that this was all down to their heritage and way of life.
"We come from being around a fire, singing songs, stories, anecdotes, playing instruments and all making sure everyone had food, everyone was cared for," she explained.
The spot was a hit with Heidi's followers over on TikTok @h.mccc and many took to the comments to share their thoughts.
One person wrote: "Nobody can clean like a traveller girl!"
Another commented: "One thing I love about traveller gypsy community is the closeness and the bond of the community!"
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"I so envy your culture and the closeness you have with extended family sitting round a fire at night listening to songs and stories would win for me," penned a third.
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Self-diagnosis and the risks
If you are concerned about a condition or feeling unwell Patient Info (a website written by GPs is a trusted source of knowledge) recommends speaking to your GP who can make a referral to specialists to help guide you on your condition.
There are lots of inline resources available that offer guidance on medical issues but you must ensure they are written by professionals and up-to-date.
Dr Bhanot recommends asking yourself the following questions when researching your health on the internet:
- Who wrote it?
- When was it written?
- Can I trust the person or website?
- Are there references?
- Is it an opinion piece or is it based on research?
Self-diagnosis can be dangerous - it can cause unnecessary worry when 'Googling' conditions and symptoms that may not be true and not reviewed by medical professionals.
