We deal with disability because we have no choice. The last thing we need is ignorance from the very people we depend on for support.
What Makes People with Disability Of All Sorts Feel BITTER?
The fact we KNOW some of you are thinking/commenting; –
‘There is worse off than you!’
‘They make out to be worse than they are’
‘They are so lazy’
‘They just want benefits’
‘They don’t try to get better’
‘They can work/walk/dance when they want to’
‘They feel sorry for themselves’
‘They need a job’
These ignorant, hurtful type of comments and perspectives don’t help. The disabled, at all stages of disability – have suffered, and continue to suffer, severe trauma. Those who have once been active and able bodied have lost the independence they once had. It’s stripped from them.
Not capable of doing the jobs, hobbies they love anymore, they work every single day to stay mentally active. They constantly fight lack of mobility, depression, isolation, being misunderstood. They desperately need people to support them and understand.
I suggest you all close your eyes and imagine YOURSELF unable to do the things you love and just everyday things you do for yourself. It won’t be a pleasant attempt at visualisation.
For instance, as a person with severe back problems, I must take regular breaks from writing this very article as I can’t sit for more than a few minutes in the same position. Have you any idea how annoying, demoralising and frustrating that is?
Ask yourself. Would anyone ASK for this? Trust me. Nobody would ask for this! Nobody!
Unless you can say you have been in their position exactly, you have no right to judge. We are all mere humans and our health something we can’t predict.
The very same ignorant thoughts you are having could be aimed at you someday.
Photo Credits Debbie Deboo