#handicapsupport

Please stop pushing/wheeling us when we have not asked you to. If we haven't asked, we probably don't need help.

Don't feel offended when we say "Please stop". Your help IS appreciated, just not needed.

Your need to push us around (or up a hill) so you don't feel "awkward" or to avoid the feeling of people judging you for not helping, is in no way on us and gives you no right to our bodies. Which- I argue, our wheelchairs are extensions of.

Handicap parking spots that don't have a ramp onto the sidewalk.

Handicap bathrooms that don't have a handicap button to open the door.

"My advice to other disabled people would be, concentrate on things your disability doesn't prevent you doing well, and don't regret the things it interferes with. Don't be disabled in spirit as well as physically" -Stephen Hawking

Disability does not define you, a wheelchair does not constrain you. Visible and invisible disabilities, are all valid, but do not control you. They are not your life and are not part of your personality. A disability is a door to new capability. You will learn how to do things differently, learn new skills, and master old ones. You will grow, and flourish, but in a different way. You will live your life to the fullest you can, the best you can, and have the most fun you can. Make the best of the moment. Live in the moment. Do not look back on the past in sorrow or forward to the future in fear.

You are valid and amazing in everyway. This hurdle did not change who you are, and I am proud of you.

Me opening a door in my wheelchair and someone - WITHOUT ASKING- starts pushing me through it.

If an old lady is opening a door slowly, do you run up and shove her through it?