Always amazes me that people take the time to write this kind of thing when you could just google reasons people use wheelchairs/conditions that impair mobility. Or even think about it. Plus the condition I use it for is literally in my bio on the page: instagram.com/taraandwolfie/
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Popular culture does not prepare us for the reality of #disability and illness. Here are 7 facts and personal observations from me (ie: not applicable to everyone): 🧵
1) Illness and disability are common human experiences. ie: Not rare, and not because someone is cursed or bad
2) #ChronicIllness is defined broadly as conditions that last 1 year or more and require ongoing medical attention or limit activities of daily living or both. Chronic illness is very common and effects an estimated 40% or more of the population. Again, not rare.
3) 'Most' disabilities and chronic illnesses can be improved in terms of symptoms and quality of life, but won’t be ‘cured’. ie: You will most likely have to live with it for a long time. This is true even though you're doing ‘the right things’. See: positive thinking, kale, etc
Engracia said in multiple interviews: “Mobility devices are an extension of our bodies. When they are damaged or destroyed, we become re-disabled. Until the airlines learn how to treat our devices with the care and respect they deserve, flying remains inaccessible.”
So few non-disabled people seem to understand that #wheelchairs are not simply interchangeable. It's not like a kitchen chair or even a car you can just go out and buy off the lot. They are customized to the disabled person's body, an extension of the person, like a prosthetic.
If my wheelchair is ever damaged or stolen, I can't just go out and pick up another at some shop. I would need to make another custom order with the right specs for my body and condition, pay thousands, and wait for months for the replacement to arrive.
The #Oscars would not permit winner Anthony Hopkins, 83, to participate remotely from overseas during a deadly pandemic with a heavy death toll - particularly for people over 60? Forgive me if I feel this does not reflect well on their commitment to #accessibility.
Let me be clear: That is some #ableist garbage right there.
Not allowing Anthony Hopkins to participate remotely in the #Oscars is literally #ableism. 'We are powerful and well-funded, and have the technology for you to participate safely and be heard, but we don't feel like using it.' This is what disabled folks have heard for years.