I used to think of myself in terms of who I'd be if I didn't have this pesky old disability.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
Every person with a disability is an individual.
I think that everyone has something about themselves that they feel is their weakness... their 'disability.' And I'm certain we all have one, because I think of a disability as being anything which undermines our belief and confidence in our own abilities.
Disability doesn't make you exceptional, but questioning what you think you know about it does.
When you hear the word 'disabled,' people immediately think about people who can't walk or talk or do everything that people take for granted. Now, I take nothing for granted. But I find the real disability is people who can't find joy in life and are bitter.
The thing about living with any disability is that you adapt; you do what works for you.
My disability exists not because I use a wheelchair, but because the broader environment isn't accessible.
I still find it strange, I suppose, when I say to someone, 'Can you just pass me my leg?' But I don't ever think about my disability.
I don't think of myself as being disabled, or able-bodied.
For me, I never ever felt the ownership or any identity with any community of disabilities. I didn't grow up being told that I was a disabled child.
Disability is a matter of perception. If you can do just one thing well, you're needed by someone.