Why I'm Happy to Answer Questions About My Disability

We are all built differently. I believe God created us all with a unique purpose and plan. I have heard in many disability groups that people who uses wheelchairs become upset when kids in a store stare at us. But I really don’t mind it. I usually just smile and wave and move on. I also have to remember it is possible they have never seen a younger person who uses a wheelchair, so it comes as a shock to them. Mobility aids are not just for grandma and grandpa.

I don’t personally take offense when this happens. I realize that kids are simply curious. In fact, I am such an open book that I encourage them to talk to me about what they want to know.  Sometimes they are just too shy to come up to me and ask for themselves, so they ask their parents or the person they are with at the time. In some ways, I am so thankful that they ask their parents because it is encouraging positive conversation about those of us with disabilities. It allows the parents to open up and broaden their conversational topics with their children, to teach them about diversity in the world. It is important because they will come across so many different types of people in their lifetime. Allowing this to happen at the earliest age possible grants them the opportunity to be open with those with disabilities and other differences.

I am an open book when it comes to my disability. I don’t have anything to hide, and I would be glad to explain whatever aspect of my life you may have questions about.  It does confuse me when grown adults stare without asking questions, especially after they have seen that I can speak. If they are curious, they should ask me. I am a very laid-back person, and I promise I do not bite! If they took the chance, they may very well find out we have a lot of things in common.

However, if you are of an adult age, don’t stare. Speak up. I am proud of my accomplishments and downfalls as a person with a disability and I would be glad to tell you about them if you want to know. You just have to realize that I am not from Mars and can in fact interact with other humans. I am also not put off by prayer requests; if you want or feel the need to pray for me, just ask. Chances are I won’t deny your request and will thank you for the prayers once they have been said. (But please note, many people with disabilities are uncomfortable with strangers offering prayers.) I may be disabled and be unable to walk, but this does not mean I can’t speak for myself and interact with others.

The bottom line here is that I am a good and nice person. If you want to ask me questions, go ahead. I will answer you to the best of my ability.  Good wishes are also encouraged with an open heart and mind. Simply ask.