Just recently I’ve had both people I know, and strangers treat me so stereotypically and it’s been driving me crazy. Yes I am disabled, no that is not ALL I am, no I do not have a sob story you can use, and no I don’t automatically need help. Twice today I’ve had people - whom I’m sure meant well - help me do things without asking, both times were absolutely terrifying. The first took my shopping literally out of my hands to put them in my bag - I thought they were gonna steal them! - the second was two guys grabbing the back of my chair to push me the way they assumed I was going.. - genuinely thought I was about to be kidnapped! - I realise They were only trying to help, but they didn’t even ask me if I needed it, they just saw the chair & made an incorrect assumption, which if you did these things to an able bodied person, would probably be considered assault!! Please for goodness sakes just ASK FIRST. I actually find it nice that people care and ask if I need assistance, & I will politely accept or decline, but don’t write me off & just assume I’m disabled so I can’t cope by myself (even though I’m currently by myself so I’ve done alright before you spotted me lol!) #AskFirst #HelpLater #Disabled #disability #wheelchair #stereotyping #life #lifewithwheels #differentlyabled #dontwritemeoff #dontjusthelpyourself #stop #disabledlife #wheelchairlife
