Originally appeared on Limbitless Sunshine
July is Disability Pride Month as well as Sarcoma Awareness Month. Both heavily intertwined in my life in such a way, that one caused the other. I still remember the first time I realized that I had a disability. It wasn't when I woke up from surgery in the hospital with one less limb, it was actually later on while filling out medical leave paperwork. I didn't linger on it much. Just checked the box, had a fleeting thought about remembering to keep this in mind when booking a flight or a hotel room. That's it.
There is this assumption in society when you are disabled that your life must be terrible. How could you possibly be happy in a wheelchair? If you're missing an arm, can you even care for yourself? Being born without sight is so sad right? Here is the thing — disability or not — you can't ever presume to know how happy someone is or their capacity in which they can care for themselves. A First glance will never tell you how full someone's life is. Simply put, having a disability means that you do some things differently. Perhaps with assistance from a person, a device, or a medication. What it does not mean, is that you are incapable of joy and love and success. I, myself live quite the full, beautiful life, despite the challenges that my disability poses.
What exactly is disability pride? When you are not ashamed of your disability, and are comfortable enough in your skin to be proud of who you are and advocate for others like you. Glam out your wheelchair, show off your prosthesis, decorate your cane and speak up when your disability requires accommodations. That being said, not everyone with a disability feels pride. Years of discrimination and a lack of rights in addition to stares and judgement from strangers can make anyone see their difference as something negative. Some deal with chronic pain and their support system doesn't quite know how to help.
What do people with a disability generally want? It's pretty basic really. To be treated with equality and respect, to have our accommodations understood as modifications that help us complete normal life tasks and live more comfortably. To not have our wheelchairs broken by airlines and be able to access all the same places you access. That's all. We are humans and want to be treated as such. I leave you with this thought - the next time you go somewhere that is not accessible and have the opportunity to leave feedback, speak up for us. The next time you meet someone with a disability speak directly to us, not with your eyes on our mobility device. The next time you get the opportunity to vote for our rights, vote for us.
Sincerely,
Those of us who deserve the same rights you have.