💨 Abstract

The author, a wheelchair user, recounts several experiences of being ignored or treated as invisible by people who interacted only with her partner, assuming he spoke for her. This treatment, common for many disabled individuals, is frustrating and dehumanizing. The author shares her journey with hip dysplasia, surgery, and reliance on a wheelchair, which increased her passion for inclusion. She now advocates for basic respect and direct communication, encouraging people to ask questions and engage with wheelchair users themselves.

Courtesy: Stephanie Ward