There are so many times where I will encounter people in my chair that will ask my parents or friends, "What's wrong with her?' and assuming that I can not speak or communicate myself yet alone hear. Assuming is probably the worst thing you could do when approaching someone with a wheelchair. It is very much appreciated if you just directly ask the person in the wheelchair the questions. There are so many misconceptions and stereotypes of people in wheelchairs and it needs to be talked about because it is important to me and others.
"You can walk?"
Yes. Yes, I can. It is assumed that everyone in a chair is not able to walk and in some cases, like mine, that is not the case. I use my chair for long distances but am able to walk short distances.
Intellectually disabled
I can't tell you how many times people will ask my mom questions automatically assuming that I am not able to talk for myself or respond because I am in my chair.
Can't have a personal life
So many times I know I have been asked, "You have a boyfriend, really? You can do that?" Yes, I can have a boyfriend. I am human too. My chair doesn't define me. I have been even asked at one point if I could even be intimate with a person. People shouldn't assume that all people with a chair can't have a relationship, why wouldn't we be able to?
Everyone they are with is always their caregiver
No. Not the case. A lot of us are more independent than you think we are.
Inspirations
"You are such an inspiration." OK, no, an inspiration would be doing something amazing like being in the Olympics or something not rolling around in my wheelchair. That is not special.
Incapable of participation in daily activites
Just because I am in a wheelchair doesn't mean I can't go to the mall or go hang out with you.
You can't have good looks or be physically appealing
OK, what? Why is this even a thing. People are beautiful with or without a wheelchair. What does getting around differently make a difference?
The point is, just ask the person directly instead of turning and avoiding the person In the wheelchair. Before you assume, ask. I can't speak for all but I know when people ask me questions it makes me more comfortable in my environment. That's only the beginning of stopping these stereotypes. Will you be the start of that change?
