Having a disability means....

A ton of people have asked me, "What is it like having a disability?"  Holy cow is that a loaded question or what!  To me disability means so much.  The most obvious definition being struggle and sacrifice.  I can't hop in a car and drive myself to the store to run a quick errand.  I can't just go to a friends house because 9 times out of 10, I can't get my power chair inside.   So, that means I have to wait until I get driven around  by someone, or that friend I wanted to hang with has to hang with me at a more accessible place.   I also have to watch how much liquid I consume.  more fluid in the bladder, means more bathroom breaks. Again, that means that I must wait to have help from someone.  Disability also means that I cannot be modest in the slightest!  Since I need help with my activities of daily living, I don't mind having those conversations that would make some people uncomfortable, "Can you help me get my bra and shirt on" comes out of my mouth as easily as a patron at a restaurant would ask their waiter or waitress, "Can I get a glass of water?"
Disability also means surgery sometimes, Surgery recovery means pain.  It comes with the territory.

   Enough of the "can't's"  I'm not a negative thinker!  I have my disability to thank for that!  Disability also has some crazy awesome perks, too!  I can get REALLY close seats at a concert!  I've seen concerts in the front row before!  Another perk is that I can wear really comfy slippers all the time.  No high heel pain for this girl!  One of my favorite perks is to have been the one to educate others about me and my disability.  I love educating children. I get so many silly questions from kiddos. My favorite question was from a nine year old girl, She came up to me and asked , " Do have parents?"  I just smiled and said, "Of course I do.  I have a mommy and daddy and they love me so much." She just  giggled, and said, "Oh ok"  I don't mind if kids ask the silly questions.  It's just their curiosity!

There are days that I would give absolutely anything to be able to walk, or drive, just to give those who help me a break!  I have my disability, yes.  But I am thankful for it because when I finally accomplish something, it tastes a million times sweeter!  Count your blessings people!

Until next time,
~C