Much of Europe has notoriously tiny roads. The age of their infrastructure means that cobblestones, tight alleyways, and unleveled sidewalks are commonplace. The same can be said for many other parts of the world. Things are even less user-friendly in rural and underfunded communities. Bumpy dirt paths, potholes the size of small planets, and worn … Continue reading Walk this way
Tag: ableism
Seeking sameness
A while ago, I met a man who wanted to date a female version of himself. His complaints about potential matches usually revolved around their way of speaking, dietary choices, hobbies, opinions, romantic needs, taste in media, etc. Basically, he was dissatisfied with each person because they had a personality of their own. He would … Continue reading Seeking sameness
Crushed by assumptions
People with bent and broken bodies are often presumed to be weak. We are thought to have the same mental and emotional deficits that our external selves display. This becomes even more complicated with invisible disabilities. Looking healthy but having physical challenges means that people assume laziness and lies on top of the incorrect belief … Continue reading Crushed by assumptions
Bedknobs
I don’t currently live with anyone. Over the years I’ve lived alone and shared a home with roommates, friends, partners, and family. There are many positives about having a space to yourself. I think we can all understand the pleasures of finding out that your bustling or shared household is yours alone for a single … Continue reading Bedknobs
Response required yesterday to a letter received today
We try, desperately, to meet and match deadlines set by the world. But, from work to leisure, time works differently for the broken. Our bodies’ needs outweigh our desires to keep up with a “normal” pace of life. On the truly terrible days, I can’t function. I can’t leave my bed. Every micro-movement, even just … Continue reading Response required yesterday to a letter received today
Air travel
I use to travel, a lot. Multiple times a year, different countries, long trips and short trips, all of which I did with relative ease. I started traveling at a very young age, the simplicity and near-comfort that I felt with the entire airport routine (regardless of my location) has been a part of my … Continue reading Air travel
Just a little movement
I didn’t realize that I was athletic until I got sick. Playing outside everyday and having sports integrated into my life was something I took for granted. I grew up in a rural place where there weren’t professional or academic sports teams. Everyone was just always outside doing activities. My dad grew up playing organized … Continue reading Just a little movement
You look great!
Living with partially or completely invisible illnesses can be an emotional rollercoaster. People are quick to assume everyone not in a chair or without a cane is able-bodied. On one hand, they don’t discriminate against you based on your unseen disability. On the other hand, they don’t give you empathy or the space that you … Continue reading You look great!
