These Disability Stereotypes Need To Stop. NOW

[@Wheelsnoheels]

Should I make a part 2? What stereotypes really annoy you? Comment them bellow, and don’t forget to check out these Gems of videos…. Last Video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roeUq2mGjZiLY5Y Stupid things People say about my disability kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppKVXpKrltR1qLM Why your comments to disabled people Hurt kzbin.info/www/bejne/pIHOaauaeq19a6M I became a wheelchair user & this shocked me the most kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5_PY6eveKx0f7c

[@helenllama]

Absolutely - the ones which are definitely invisible disability related but incredibly harmful are “but you don’t look autistic” and “everyone is a little autistic”

[@jamesfennell4224]

Its not a stereotype but I hate when people treat you differently when they find out. I had a teacher training interview once where I told them I was autistic and about the support I'd need the whole tone just changed. Needless to say I was unsuccessful.

[@TalentedTiger]

When they treat you like you're even more responsible for your mistakes when they're actually caused by your disability, and you don't mean that at all. And if you do same mistakes without them knowing, they don't even care that much or at all which is weird, since I'm a kind polite person but due to brain damage I used to say things (before I healed that mostly) that I didn't mean or was trying to say cuz I couldn't tell yet that I was mis-phrasing kind words as negatively perceived sentences, sometimes I'd realize later... They would be mean things even sometimes, but 100% wouldn't come from me. Just entirely accidental mis-phrasing I couldn't help. Trying to explain this in advance to make things better for all would make people treat me so much worse, strangely, and instead of communicating and realising I'm literally NOT responsible even, let alone guilty for this, they'd treat me the worst way possible for it. 😐

[@CanadianMum444]

Where I am if you can even crawl to the bathroom, the ot can add all the needs and challenges in your physical ability to move and live and survive/thrive, work or leave your home, etc, government will not approve insurance coverage of a chair. It’s really bad. So it’s super expensive to get a chair here. Likely lots of other places too. Insurance rules are archaic.

[@Londonpigeon1990]

That being disabled equals unemployment and poverty. I was at a UK craft event and talking about purchases I made and the new people I was socialising with were very uncomfortable. The assumption appeared to be that because i am in a wheelchair, I am therefore automatically on UK welfare benefits and should not have disposable income. I actually work full time but regardless even if I was unable to and was reliant on government support that shouldn't equate to living in poverty.

[@sweetluvgurl]

I have a few other ones for you. 1) Disabled people always need help and can’t do anything for themselves. 2) Physically disabled are also intellectually impaired, as well. I have had so many people talk to me like I’m stupid or a child. 3) Disabled people aren’t sexual beings. Again, disabled people are often treated childlike. Just because someone may require assistance some doesn’t make them a child.

[@Narnendil]

Oh yes, number 2 and 3! Half the time I mention my husband to strangers they exclaim "you have a husband?!" Or how they speak to the one pushing my wheelchair and not me... >.

[@mary-janereallynotsarah684]

I was in a neuropsych ward for months and I wore the hospital clothes out. I had a daypass. I'm autistic and I just don't give a crap so I just wore them when I went to the store. Well one day this lady who I guess worked in another hospital in the area recognized my hospital clothes and started talking to me like I was a total eejit or a loon on the run. She was like where are u going and I got immediately annoyed by her tone, I said the store, she said *come with me we can go together* in this sickly sweet voice. Lmao I told her to get the eff away from me. I know she was trying to help but wtf? In the hospital too we had these nurses that just came for the day and didn't know us and a lot of them talked to me like a child. I'm autistic not an infant! I never put up with it I started telling them off and told them to leave me alone. It's lame when people who work as nurses are so ignorant.

[@asecretcourtofcrowsandcloc4084]

Disability doesn’t discriminate, people do. I love it.

[@michelleswanson6347]

There's a stereotype that invisible disabilities are easier than visible disabilities. Disabilities are complicated and you can't guess how much a person is struggling just by looking at them. It's not helpful at all to disabled people to try to judge whether or not we're disabled enough to need something

[@lisapinfold506]

Grinds my gears big time

[@lucys7457]

I hate that because I’m disabled people assume I can’t answer for myself so talk to my partner instead.. just because I’m in a wheelchair doesn’t mean I can’t answer a question

[@cbair2272]

As a able bodied individual one of my pet peeves around disability is other able bodied people policing disability. So I was working as a car park attendant around Christmas and a lady who was a wheelchair user came in and parked in a disabled space but she had not swapped her blue badge from one car to the other , within seconds of opening her door a lady had run and I mean full on sprinted up to her and was shouting “You have not got a badge you can't park there” and other things while she was transferring into her chair. I went to see what the problem was and she said she had forgotten her blue badge I said fine I would write her an exemption card so she would not get a parking charge (fine). Upon hearing this sprint lady starts screaming at me “No you must give hear a fine right now she hasn't got a badge” and just ranting. I honestly felt sorry for the wheelchair user all she wanted was to do her Christmas shopping in piece.

[@liddlej4]

My biggest pet peeve right now is employers not being willing to accommodate a work from home request, either part or full time, even though they spent over two years having their entire staff work from home.

[@natalyakeane]

one thing i hate and has really caused people to treat me badly in the past is the "if you can do [insert hobby], then you can work". just because i can play a video game or practice the guitar doesn't mean i can handle the stresses and pressures of a work environment.

[@Bastianjens13]

Just because I was “healthy” Growing up doesn’t mean I’m healthy now

[@amyfox9659]

"I've seen you walk, so you don't need that chair." I have MS so on good days I use a walker, bad days I use a wheelchair.

[@TinyPigy282]

There's a stereotype that if you've got the same disability as someone else you should automatically be best friends with them

[@ixykix]

hahah yes like all the disabled people in a town know each other!

[@PhanstmaDelMar]

OMG yes! I have MS and can’t count the number of times people have said “Do you know so-so, they have MS too?” I quickly check out the person and respond with my own question, “ Do you know so-so, they where glasses too? Or have blonde hair, are short etc. This generally gets the person to laugh an realize how silly there question is.

[@RhamanaChan]

@@PhanstmaDelMar I have MS too, one of the most frustrating things with MS is it affects everyone differently, no two cases are really the same. Unless people know more than one person with it, they tend to assume we all have to have it the same.

[@imalionimaqueen7234]

Or that we're all the same and need the EXACT SAME accomidations as everyone else with the same diagnosis😒

[@sarahorme1200]

What I hate are parents who pull children away and tell them not to look, they make it worse children often don’t wanna ask about my wheelchair they just wanna say hello and show you something. But even if they do ask so what! How on earth does a child learn without looking and asking but also realising I’m just like them only I need some help!

[@Jaggededge112]

I’ve had some of the loveliest conversations and met some of the sweetest kiddos when they came up to talk to me about my vibrant colored wheelchair. I welcome all queries from children and I make sure the parents know that it’s a good thing that they are curious. I think maybe the parents might not know if it’s alright with the wheelchair user or not.

[@hedygrotenhuis6575]

with that kind off respos they tell, with out words, to the child that disable is somthing bad. but the grownups would excely like to ask the questoins there child are asking but they feel embarresed.

[@BrendaCHughes]

Since I became a wheelchair user I started seeing things differently and treat differently as well. When my husband and I pull up in a disabled parking space, before I have chance to put my disabled badge out. We always get looks. It's not until my husband gets my wheelchair out of the car and I get out in the car they then realise I only have one leg. So the look on there face is priceless.

[@brandonschroeder934]

The one thing I was bad for was reporting people who clearly didn’t need to be parked in disabled parking it just rubs me the wrong way I know there are invisible disabilities I should know my previous partner had one but the spots are actually for the elderly and the people who have mobility issues and also the people who care for them weather that be a support worker or family member but what bugs me even more now that I wheel around where I live vs teking transit is when people block the curb cuts now that should be one law with 0 exceptions because it’s not just for strollers and scooters and such ir makes it easier for anybody

[@BrendaCHughes]

@@brandonschroeder934 most definitely, they has being many a time when mu husband has pushed me along a footpatn and when we have reached the end cannot get down because the dropped kerb is blocked by a vehicle. Then having to find a safe spot to get down, sometimes having to go onto the main road. I know with normal parking spaces I could not fully open a car door to get out, very hard on one leg. Just to get into my wheels. Or the council have put a disabled spot right next to a kerb and you cannot get out.

[@brandonschroeder934]

@@BrendaCHughes yup it’s not much better in alberta Canada where I live another issue is when snow blocks them 99% of the winter I am usually inside do to this but luckily we get a lot of sunshine where I am so once it warms up the snow usually melts pretty quick

[@isabelleblanchet3694]

When I see someone park in a disabled parking spot I check it, but only to make sure they have the disable tag. It's so infuriating when people without it take a spot for people who need it.

[@brandonschroeder934]

@@isabelleblanchet3694 I do the same thing like in my situation since I have one family member who I usually call when I need rides from I just keep my plak with them and they just keep it in the glovebox

[@SenailCooledge]

I jokingly say that I have an Invisible Visible Disability. I suffer from chronic pain, and comorbid mental heath issues. When I put away my cane or wheelchair, no one would assume I'm disabled, unless I tried to walk and they saw the limp. I'm only 23, so when people see someone my age with a cane, they assume I'm faking, but when I'm out in the chair people have fawned over me like I was helpless. I just have to shake my head and laugh at the absurdity.

[@kendrawarner313]

I relate to this so much especially as someone who is still in high school the comments from teachers are insane

[@SenailCooledge]

@@kendrawarner313 If you're in the states like me, If you can, I would recommend having it documented and sent up the chain of command. There is absolutely no excuse for an educator to act like that.

[@ScareBearGirl]

Same, I cannot stand the fawning, like just because I'm in my chair doesn't mean I'm useless 😤

[@SenailCooledge]

@@ScareBearGirl I had to have a serious talk with a few relatives who weren't/aren't use to seeing me in my chair. It boiled down to "Unless I directly ask you to help me, DON'T FRIGGIN HELP!" My mom and siblings are smart enough to ask first.

[@sweetluvgurl]

Speaking of the disabled branding stuff, one thing that gets on my nerves is that many actors and actresses who play disabled people in the media are actually able bodied. I’m sorry, but to me, that isn’t accurate representation. I just don’t get it. I’m tired of how disabled people are still kind of kept out of sight in different ways like that.

[@punky19761]

That “you’re too young to use a wheelchair” is some ignorant bs. They’ve seriously never heard of any of the disabilities you can be born with? Also you can be sick, have an accident or be the victim of a crime at any age. People just need to educate themselves and then mind their own beeswax.

[@introverteddragon2247]

A large pet peeve of mine since becoming disabled last year (and censored for youtube) is constantly getting asked if I can have s*x. Being in a wheelchair or using my cane does not automatically make me a child, or remove my ability to consent, or make me a "pillow princess". I was already asked an uncomfortable amount of questions about "down there" because I'm trans, and I definitely don't appreciate being asked even MORE of those questions every time I meet a potential partner. Disabled adults are, in fact, adults that can consent to "activities", even if sometimes we have to be a bit creative. The ideas that you have to be a senior to be disabled and that all disabled people are like children aren't ideas that should exist anyway, but those coexisting is just immeasurably annoying.

[@JohnR31415]

I have a semantic issue with the word disabled … when applied to inanimate objects. The parking space and toilet aren’t disabled (they work just fine), they’re accessible.

[@jordangriffin3785]

My husband has mobility issues related to MS and, when we were about 30, used an airport wheelchair and priority boarding option to board a plane. He chose the first seat in economy class when we got on the plane and the man behind him later tapped him on the shoulder and said that he 'must be faking mobility issues' and 'would be held accountable by the devil for lying'. 😡. I almost had to break up a fight that day.

[@carlweiss8942]

disabled ramps that are tooooo steep to get up

[@aymee_ye]

I'm wondering why the world doesn't just embrace ramps as much as possible and stop building stairs. It's great for disabled people, but also for people with pushchairs, trolleys, suitcases...

[@punky19761]

@@aymee_ye yes, please!

[@shayerahol6434]

I'm invisibly disabled and it's so irritating because if someone can't see it, people think I'm not sick. "You can't be that sick (Bla bla bla)!" It's especially bad when it comes from other disabled people

[@katherinemorelle7115]

So, one time this woman came barrelling up to me when i was in the city, just minding my own business. She screamed at me "I saw your foot move, you faker! How dare you fake being disabled?!" And just kept screaming at me for a full minute, not allowing me to get a word in edgewise. It was so embarrassing, and I cried, right there in public. It didn't matter that she was in the wrong, that she was the ignorant one, it was still scary and embarrassing. 95% of wheelchair users are not fully paralysed. But that is the stereotype. Another stereotype is that if a fat person is using a mobility aid, it's because they're fat and lazy, not disabled. It's so incredibly frustrating, and again, embarrassing.

[@cbryce9243]

Katherine, that would be very scary to have someone do that. I am so sorry that happened to you! I am older, fat and walk, but thankfully no one has ever been mean to me.

[@corbinbrier0]

I'm looking into a wheelchair for ambulatory use and people staring or assuming since I can walk I'm faking is a big worry. Today I used a cane since I'm stubborn and don't wanna use the motorized carts at Walmart (was stared at the whole time, especially when I dropped my cane while using self-checkout). Each and every time I regret it since I am barely able to function by the end of grocery shopping. The fear of being seen as a liar since I'm young or being confronted just gets way into my head to the point where I can't justify using the mobility aids the stores give out. If more people didn't harass those of us with invisible illnesses over these things I think it'd be so much easier.

[@kendrawarner313]

another option for Walmart is they have manual wheelchairs too if you didn't already know that that way you an shop longer without having to worry about the battery dying too

[@aaronwolf1045]

I am so bewildered by people who assume someone is faking a disability because they stood up out of their wheelchair transfer, stretch, retrieve an item, etc. I have seen photos posted online of wheelchair users standing up to grab something off a high shelf as if the poster was going to catch them in the act to expose them “faking”. I can’t imagine how violated that person must feel if they came across it. I just can’t believe people think that is a more likely scenario than an ambulatory wheelchair user. I have never felt a need to police others on their need for mobility aids while I’m at the store buying groceries. If I see someone using an accessible stall, parking space, or mobility scooter I am going to assume they’re using it because they need it. If not, there is nothing I could do about it anyway.

[@jenniferwells2291]

I'm an ambulatory wheelchair user and tend to get looks if someone sees me stand up to get something off a shelf or to get back in the car. So annoying. I was disabled at 19 from a car accident, and people do not tend to react well to seeing a young disabled person where I live. I agree completely with the paying of disabled people. I live in the U.S. and current law allows employers to pay as little as $1 per hour, or less, to workers with disabilities if they can't perform a job as well as a person who is not disabled. It's an exemption to the Fair Labor Standards Act that has been in place for 80 years.

[@michaeldavey6276]

Same here in my previous life/job I was a milkman delivering 700 pints a night which destroyed my hips, knees and ankles running over uneven ground but can still stand and with sticks walk about 10 feet but ignorant people don't understand how painful it is

[@mymultiplelife]

I have Ehlers-danlos syndrome hypermobile type and a an ambulatory wheelchair user. I’m also totally blind and have many mental health conditions including PTSD, depression, dissociative identity disorder and anxiety. I love your channel and thank you for bringing awareness to invisible and in the invisible disabilities alike.

[@N0N4M30]

Hey Eds sister or brother ! I do suffer from a lot of the mental health conditions like you do. But I manage my days so far without a wheelchair but can’t stand for to long before I have to lay down. Also my joints especially ankles and elbows are always in very bad shape and pain. People tend to think I am oversensitive since my disabilities aren’t visible and I don’t have to use the wheelchair. Also I’m 1 out of only 3 people in my small country with the syndrome so there’s not really adequate medical care possible to get.

[@EmilyCheetham]

When I first left college I have a few companies refuse to hire me because I have epilepsy. They didn’t say it to my face but we could tell form the misdirection they used and the way they spoke their true intentions. It really angered me as I’m perfectly capable of working.

[@Lizzie82934]

I have ADHD and dyscalculia. Just come across your channel. Thank you for also acknowledging invisible disabilities

[@MusingsFromTheDen]

Non-disabled people tend to assume in interested in all things disabled. No, I'm not interested in becoming a paralymian and no I'm not an expert on every disability! 🙃 Also that I know EVERYONE with a disability in the UK! Someone once got quite insistant with me because they new someone in their caravan club 'in a wheelchair like you' so I MUST know them! 🤣

[@sweetluvgurl]

I love this list. I don’t get the “disabled” being a bad word thing either. Now, I don’t like “crippled,” “invalid,” and “gimp.” Those are only some I can really think of that bother me. I’ll never forget in a really serious situation a woman called me an “invalid.” I was so mad, and I was like “what?” and she quickly reworded it…. I kind of wish I had told her I didn’t appreciate her using the original word she used. It literally says disabled people are invalid (just pronounced differently)!

[@TalentedTiger]

It sounds like you're not a valid person and it doesn't sit right with me either. 😕💙

[@rubyrosemurraylee8177]

Since I have been in a wheelchair 🦽 I get told I can’t do that because wheelchair uses can’t do that if I say I can do something I can do it we all know what we can do so people need to trust what we are saying.

[@ixykix]

I was once introduced to someone at a conference, but the person doing the introduction then said, "oh sorry, but of course you know each other" We didn't, but we were both wheelchair users from the same town we found out. Hard to interpret that in a different way!

[@opsboss64]

I’m in my mid 50’s and 3.5 years ago I had 5 strokes and 2 brain seizures. On October 28 2018 I nocked off work early after working 8 hours ( I normally worked 10) when I pulled into my driveway and the strokes started. That was my last day of work. I ended up in the hospital for the next 2 months, I can walk very short distances with a walker, but most of the time I’m in a wheelchair. My biggest problem is my vision and any time I’m standing up the dizziness makes me feel like I’m falling forward and to the left. Luckily I’m also a disabled vet from my navy days in the Persian gulf and the veterans administration hospital is working with me trying to help me recover. I’m now in beginning the process of getting a wheelchair. I’ve paid for both the wheelchairs I’ve had and am now trying to get a fitted rigid wheelchair. My biggest problem is when I’m in public I feel like people are judging me for being in a wheelchair even though I would give anything to be able to walk.

[@Jaggededge112]

Hey you should be getting those wheelchairs through the veterans affairs. That’s how I receive mine. My injuries are from my time in the service but even when they weren’t counted yet (cause of the wait) I was still eligible to receive high end wheelchair funded through the va.

[@Jaggededge112]

Do you see the va for primary care? If so all you need to do is talk to your primary care doctor and her it she will send the request to pcmr wheelchairs and they’ll assess you and for you with a wheelchair that you’ll like. Oh you can also request a smart drive system.

[@opsboss64]

@@Jaggededge112 I’ll have to tell her. My next appointment isn’t until June but we did say something about it last video appointment we had.

[@Jaggededge112]

@@opsboss64 I’ve sent secure messages to my doctor requesting to get a custom wheelchair usually they’ll get in contact with you right away and bring you in to assess your needs and then they’ll send the consult down. You won’t have to wait until June.

[@opsboss64]

@@Jaggededge112 thanks I will send her a message

[@theadodds3155]

I'm a wheelchair user as when I go out in public I have to use my wheelchair as I cant walk far or do steps etc.. however when my joints start to hurt I have to move them such as walking a few steps to ease the pain. the amount of looks I get from people when I get out is ridiculous as a lot of people especially elderly people think I'm faking it. with my age as well they often don't believe I'm disabled as I'm only in my early 20s. I think a lot of people need to educate themselves on wheelchair users and like you said some wheelchair can walk as well. i also have picked up that i lot of people don't reliease that those who use a wheelchair or other aids have educational qualifications, when i tell people i have a university degree they often dont believe and i say its my legs and nerves that dont work not my brain.

[@Ceretrea]

My biggest peeve, as a newbie to the wheelchair using community, is the assumption that all wheelchair users are able to push themselves. Those of us with truly debilitating chronic fatigue (I've had long covid and CTEPH since Mar 2020) are simply too exhausted. If I find washing my hair exhausting then I can't self propel! My wheelchair gives me freedom I wouldn't otherwise have but I get comments about 'letting' my husband push or that I would 'be fitter' if I pushed myself. Very frustrating! Because of the nature of my disability, if I was well enough to push then I would be walking. So it's very upsetting to me when I hear this. It just reminds me of what I can't do.

[@susieruth1558]

I agree with you 1000%. I am a young lady with cerebral palsy Who had tumors in the past and a stroke when I was 11. Earlier this year I was diagnosed with sleep apnea And a urinary tract infection.

[@cbryce9243]

Wow, that's a lot to go through!

[@1972chezza]

Thing that gets me with being wheelchair bound(as i have seen wheelchair user is better), people saying to me " you don't need a wheelchair as you can move your feet and legs"

[@ChrisPage68]

"Wheelchair bound" gets me. We're wheelchair USERS.

[@Jaggededge112]

@@ChrisPage68 thank you.

[@1972chezza]

@@ChrisPage68 you are right i should right it as "wheelchair user"

[@kendrawarner313]

YES people saying you don't need a wheelchair because you can walk and you aren't an amputee get to me so much

[@NickUncommon]

Invisible disabilities were, what I wanted to chime in on. Being on the Autism spectrum, having sensory auditory processing disorder, a rare muscle disease which leaves me achy with every longer activity makes me want a wheelchair. I have trouble getting a script for one, since I seem to communicate in a way, that does leave the medical profession think, I am not suffering enough (autism, flat affect, monotone speaking patterns). Even with a brain bleed, they claimed, I possibly am faking it, because I was able to muscle through the headache and talk coherently. When they did imaging and saw it, all of a sudden, the tone of their interaction with me. So even doctors have their trouble distinguishing between invisible disabilies and their interactions with other health problems. Even if I tell a new dlctor, that he can not count on tone and needs to listen to the words, I say, it has done me no good. So I bring a "social translator" to my appointments, if corona does not throw me off because they dont allow accompaniment in their doctors offices. So many more hindering factors have come with this lockdown situation. It is hard ennough with an invisible disability, but the mix, with muscle problems and autism lets me look like a lazy, demanding person, who "wants to be complicated" I wish, there was a sort of device, that could let them experience the every day challenges, I master without falling apart. A friend of mine learned special ed teacher and now works in a one on one setting for an autistic young adult and he told me, since he works with his guy, he finally could understand better, if I talked about challenging situations, where before, he too thought, I was overdramatizing things and wanted the lazy way out. So to raise awareness for invisible disabilities needs to get momentum as much as any other form of awareness campaign.

[@tiffanimilburn8885]

Those are good examples. As a blind woman one of the ones I get is that people either talk to me really loudly because they think I can’t hear them. Or they talk to me really slow like I’m stupid or something.

[@boofyhalfpint8559]

On the flip side to this, Australia has named Paraympian tennis star Dylan Alcott as Australian of the year! Made me really happy!!!

[@ericjanssen394]

I used to crutch it on two canes down Main Street where I lived, before using a chair, and...okay, I'm not the neatest guy, but just because I'm on canes, you might want to ASK before thinking I'm a panhandler and giving me a couple dollars. Never refused it, though, just to be polite. Oh, and I live at the top of a high hill, and wouldn't dare use a manual chair back and forth from the bus stop--Not all electric power-chair users are Stephen Hawkins, thank you.

[@Jayleigh2796]

I’m pretty much a full time wheelchair user but I can stand if I really had to or just to move from 1 chair to another but when someone shouts it’s a miracle it makes me so angry When I watched your video about the guy at the airport I shared it and me alongside everyone I know was outraged

[@cbryce9243]

I missed that video, I will have to find it.

[@Jayleigh2796]

@@cbryce9243 kzbin.info/www/bejne/oZi4YYBqm8aFgac

[@Jayleigh2796]

@@cbryce9243 I have linked it for you

[@lancevetrov8224]

The one that absolutely grinds my gears (or wheels because, heh, wheelchair) is when people mistake my partner as my carer. Genuinely they are gobsmacked that I am in a romantic relationship, especially with them. It absolutely makes me want to *scream*.

[@maryjennings4913]

I'm from Maryland, U.S.A. one of my proudest days as a Marylander, was when I saw the Toyota TV commercial with U.S. Paralympic swimmer, Jessica Long!!!! That had a huge impact on people with disabilities, here in the U.S.A. Look it up. It first aired on Superbowl Sunday, one of the most expensive, and sought-after advertising days, for companies in this country!!!

[@ShakespeareOfBorg]

I've been a volunteer for four years but when I applied for a paid role (doing what I'm already doing) I was rejected because I "failed" the interview. So heart-breaking that they don't want to pay me.

[@Electrowave]

Same thing happened to a friend of mine. The company she was volunteering for for at least two years had a paid job opening doing similar work. She applied but was turned down for someone outside of the company. She left after that.

[@ShakespeareOfBorg]

@@Electrowave I'm still volunteering, and they're asking me to help the person they employed with the role. So now I'm looking elsewhere for voluntary work.

[@Electrowave]

@@ShakespeareOfBorg I don't blame you, it can't be good for your morale. Volunteering is supposed to be rewarding, and often advertised as a step into paid employment.

[@ShakespeareOfBorg]

@@Electrowave I used to enjoy the role so much but now I don't, knowing they don't actually value me enough to pay me.

[@Electrowave]

@@ShakespeareOfBorg I hope you find somewhere where you are appreciated. I don't think I managed to survive four years in one job, apart from when I was self employed.

[@StikFigureChik74]

Hello from the southern USA, Gem! I've got Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and am a part-time wheelchair user. My biggest pet peeves are related to parking. I have been yelled at, sworn at, and threatened to have the police called for "stealing my grandparent's tag" (N.B.: all are deceased and I have a permanent plate on my van instead of a removable tag) and "parking illegally". TBH, there are times it is easier to take 2 parking places further away from the entrance to allow room to safely unload my chair and my service/assistance dog; in those situations, I always inform the manager as soon as I enter the store. Guess some problems are universal.

[@millicentdollhouse5252]

I got asked to work a full four day week as an educator on a $40 million project - the pay offered - lunch and tickets to the venue. The hilarious part about it - they had asked me in to reach implicit bias training. I had to call and explain the raging implicit bias the email was full of. Assuming we don’t have jobs and can just donate our time, assuming we are so grateful to be asked to teach that we don’t need pay. Anyway after I made a phone call and explained how embarrassing their email was, every disabled person got paid and suddenly they respected our time and only asked us to work two days.

[@ayp0777]

I was injured at 23 and people would ask my sister if I was her grandmother! I was like this wheelchair has aged me 50 years, when actually the person associated wheelchair use with the elderly. Thanks for posting!!

[@kayjays7267]

One annoying thing for me in regard to invisibile disabilities is when people that have a visible disability or are pregnant ask and expect you to give up your seat. It has only happened to me once, but I know a few others it has happened to and when you say no some people are respectful and some are offended. I have scoliosis and several heart conditions, so on a bus or train I have to be sitting as if the train jerks and I am not prepared for it, it throws my whole back out which is not fun as the process of reallignment takes awhile.

[@tomlee252]

As a male, I use my wheelchair to pick up females in a bar, and I don't even drink, but seriously, I have complications due to child abuse, which left me in the present to use hearing aids, legally blind, and in and out of a wheelchair which I now am using full time, I back surgery which stent from years of child abuse, the back surgery was not a success, I went from FBSS (failed back surgery syndrome) to Dysautonomia, basically over active nervous system, I have no balance, but can stand for a brief time to transfer to a couch/chair, I am on muscle relaxers so that my nerves do not get to the point where I am literally screaming, as if someone literally pulled on my tendons and it caused my leg to seize up, I am single, and yes I get those looks, and everything you've mentioned does happen, I've even had people ram me with their shopping carts because they weren't paying attention, I also suffer from CPTSD, also, I love the work you are doing to educate others.

[@aymee_ye]

Thanks for sharing your personal story. Yours is a disability I hadn't thought of before, it's good to learn something new and be more aware of others' disabilities.

[@footymadjen]

I suffer with severe arthritis in my spine, hips, wrists, knees and ankles. I use crutches in the house, but when I go out I have to use a wheelcahir due to pain and fatigue. I have had people say I am faking it due to my age. I started having to use a wheelchair at around 18. Like you Gem I have a Mobility car which is my life line, plus my independance, without it I would be housebound. I have had people tell me that I am taking a car from someone who needs it (well sorry Karen but I do need it). I am constantly in pain that I would not wish on anybody. These disability sterotypes need to stop, anybody at any age can become diabled. Being disabled is not bad, its just that we have to do things differently. Have a good day to anyone who reads this. Great video Gem xx

[@aymee_ye]

Your "(well sorry Karen but I do need it)" really made me chuckle. I'm 34 and only recently became disabled, I now need to use a wheelchair. It helps so much to read about other younger disabled people out there. Have a good day too Jen :)

[@footymadjen]

@@aymee_ye Your welcome Amy. I am now 41 so I have had to put up with people saying I am faking it for years lol.

[@cbryce9243]

I'm a grey hair so no one questions me anymore. I too have arthritis and necrosis of the bones. Everything hurts. Every time I have tripped and fallen, I have broken at least one bone. Now my hip joints are a mess. I also have a disease that makes my feet burn. I am excited that I am in the process of getting an electric wheelchair. My hands hurt so much from wheeling the chair around.

[@footymadjen]

@@cbryce9243 I am sorry you are in pain every day. Good luck with the electric wheelchair. I would not be without mine. xx

[@katlady5000]

If you are in a wheelchair you need someone to push you. I had a nurse start pushing me while my hands were on the push rims we were fighting against each until she let go. My wheelchair has push handles that fold down but for some reason they were up. I normally put them do so people won't push my chair. I match many of your stereotypes that need to stop, I have an invisible disability (Multiple Sclerosis), I refer to myself as disabled and prefer that term, I'm semi ambulatory so I can stand and walk short distances, and I'm still younger then people think a wheelchair user should be. Your channel was very helpful when I was moving from my walker to a wheelchair for the first time. So thank you for your awesome videos.

[@aymee_ye]

Your comment was helpful to read, thank you. I only recently became disabled with what they think is MS but they have said is a neurological disorder (waiting for MRI for a diagnosis). I can now only walk like you described, short distances, slowly, with a walking frame. Would you mind saying how MS affects your walking, how does it feel for you to be on your feet? Do you have any fatigue or strain in your arms or wrists from MS and from pushing yourself on a wheelchair and lifting yourself? My arms are still pretty good, but I have pushed them too much a couple of times and my wrists are often achey, because I'm putting all my weight on my arms / hands now. Thanks.

[@Jaggededge112]

@@aymee_ye I hope you get your diagnosis soon.

[@aymee_ye]

@@Jaggededge112 thank you.

[@katlady5000]

@@aymee_ye My feet on numb so I have reduced feeling in my feet. From time to time I get what I call the feet of flames. Where is feels like my feet are on fire. My left leg is weak and I get foot drop so I will be walking and my foot will drop and trip me. Also with walking if I walk for a little bit of time both legs get very weak until I fall and it becomes very hard to lift my foot of the ground. My left side is much worst then my right side. I have spasticity in my legs which is is abnormal muscle tightness due to prolonged muscle contraction. So my legs go stiff. sometimes I have lhermitte's sign in my legs. It feels like an electric pulse goes through my legs and I lose all ability to use them for about 1 minute then everything goes back to normal. My first MS flare was optic neuritis which caused me to lose a lot of vision in my left eye. It was like after you look at a camera flash dark and spotty that lasted a month. I've had MS since 2001 and MS has some many types of flares the things I descript may never happen to you. MS varies a lot. Also I don't have all these things happening at once. It gets worst in hot weather. People with MS have to be careful in the heat. My lesions are mainly on my spine with a few in my brain. Other people with MS can experience brain fog so they lose track of things and can't multi task well. I don't have this but it's something I watch out for. I hope this helps you. Sorry this is a long post.

[@jeffkardosjr.3825]

​@@katlady5000Or even cold!

[@danielleharvey1038]

People thinking that someone cant talk for them self and asking whoever you are with the questions instead of you

[@music.fan869]

Thank you. I'm an ambulatory wheelchair user with CP & a neurological pain disorder. The thing about nobody batting an eyelid if an elderly person gets up out of a wheelchair, but younger people are treated like fakes is so true. I can walk a short distance to the shop at the end of my street, but much further and I need a wheelchair due to severe pain and balance problems. You should see the stares I get when I transfer to it using my walking stick, or when I stand for 1 second to reach something. They look like I've performed a miracle 🙄

[@ritamcd2560]

“Differently-abled” makes me nuts. Its DISABLED-own it!

[@johnbethea4505]

I am a 100% disabled war veteran who can't feel my feet and legs who can more less walk around the home but use a scooter or wheelchair when out. I do fall sometimes. I consider myself crippled and not disabled, but I don't let comments bother me. What amazes me is the people who want to help me, especially the younger people..

[@cbryce9243]

Me too! I am very pleased by the support of others.

[@TalentedTiger]

Same, people are so supportive in the streets. Official services? Not so much (at all) 😅

[@carolinewest2217]

I just found your vlogs and the way you address things is wonderful. I have a invisible disability. I am legally blind and a partial albino. My vision is 20/200, so I can see but not as well as others. As I got older and had to explain what I can see and can't people call me a liar and that just makes me want to make them look through my eyes. Why do so many people judge the disabled so much. I hope you and your family have a great evening, morning or day.

[@wristdisabledwriter2893]

I think my wrist disability tend to be invisible and mine is not typical of what is common. I also have brain disorder and epilepsy (caused by the brain disorder) all of which are invisible and misunderstood

[@Jayleigh2796]

I read something somewhere that there are more ambulatory wheelchair users than there are paralysed wheelchair users in the uk

[@sharonestela83]

People look at me and said "oh, you look great". like if I need to look sick and out of fashion to being disabled.

[@rhyssaunders9863]

The weird idea that all wheelchair users can't walk at all is so annoying, but I've managed to get some fun out of it as a young adult ambulatory wheelchair user. A few times when standing from my wheelchair to take a few steps to make getting in a train or something easier, if I notice people staring or looking shocked, I've made a show of being like "WOW, a MIRACLE!" then laughed with family.

[@L1teralsatan]

I only just recently got diagnosed with hypermobile eds but I've been using mobility aids for almost a year now and have dealt with chronic pain and other health issues since I was a kid. A weird thing I've noticed is that I was more often than not told I was too young to be in pain or that I was just making up excuses back before I started using my crutches, walker, or wheelchair, and now I usually get asked if I hurt myself or whats wrong with me. Going from having an invisible disability to using mobility aids but still looking mostly healthy was a very strange experience, but it is definitely easier for me to be taken seriously now and get the help I need. I do admit I get a tad annoyed when people don't seem to understand that my disability affects more than just my ability to stand or walk for a long period of time though, but its gotten easier to deal with

[@MrBeitz001]

I'm 44 and suffer from a rare and progressive neurological condition called Primary Lateral Sclerosis (a type of Motor Neuron Disease). Its effects many of my motor skills, including legs, arms and speech. Im not yet fulltime in a wheelchair but Im headed that way. I cant drive but I do have a mobility scooter. I regularly trip and fall and cant walk far. I'm new to the disabled world and rarely leave my house (not by choice but because I'm waiting on a scooter adjustment). I must say getting out and about, and there being many bigoted people out there, is a really daunting proposition for me. People like GEM are so inspirational, and her videos have such a wealth of information for a "newby" like me! 😊

[@Jayleigh2796]

When strangers. Shout it’s. A miracle when I stand up to move chairs coz I can stand for very short periods even though I’m pretty much a full time user now Anyway that comment really winds me up

[@Jaggededge112]

That’s plain disgusting 🤢. I want to slap people when they talk like that.

[@Jayleigh2796]

@@Jaggededge112 same believe me I think if people weren’t so ignorant or if they took the time to understand they’d not be so quick to judge

[@ginamoo5340]

Part 2 absolutely. I'm an ambulatory wheelchair/walker user. I would use my walker much more in my home but my home isn't accessible to either my chair or walker. Because I can walk some people have given snarky looks if I need one of the motorized mobility chairs in the store. I've had asthma since childhood, I now have COPD as well, I've had two back surgeries, and both Achilles tendons are held on by bone anchors. Some days are better than others but I hate people assuming that because I "look fine" I don't need a way to access store or that I'm using the mobility aids because I'm overweight.

[@kendrawarner313]

I have AMPS and PNES. AMPS is Amplified Musculoskeletal Pain Syndrome which is a chronic pain condition that absolutely is disabling especially during bad flare-ups (a lot of people equate it to a more rare version of fibromyalgia even though it is a little bit different) but I would say the most disabling diagnosis I have is my PNES which I am actually trying really hard to get a wheelchair for in order to get my freedom back and be able to enjoy life again. PNES is also known as PNEAs is Phyciactric non-epileptic seizures or psychogenic non-epeleptic attacks these are episodes that look like seizures and act like seizures however are not epileptic so they don't cause damage to the brain. Due to this, I am a fall risk not only because of the episodes themselves but I also have spasms typically in my legs as well as some loss of sensation in my legs particularly after episodes. I really appreciate you making these types of videos because it really helps me to remember that I am not alone in this and that there is a community out there that understands. As well as in hopes that I am able to get my own wheelchair your channel helps me to learn different ways of doing things in a wheelchair as well as it helps me learn for the times like today that I have to borrow a wheelchair at school. Thank you so much.

[@yourhandicapneighbor6218]

I had a care attendant tell me I can't call myself disabled, she insisted on "differetly-abled".

[@robokill387]

Yes, I've had similar, an adult once told me I was "an autistic person, I'm a person with autism". Don't know where non-disabled people get off telling us how to talk about ourselves, I call it ablesplaining.

[@Londonpigeon1990]

I guess one of my biggest gripes is access to mobility equipment via the NHS. I need a wheelchair for medium to long distances but can't self propel. I needed an electronic mobility device for outside my home. With in my geographical area the NHS will only prescribe you electronic wheelchairs etc if you first prove that you need it inside your home, after 6 months you can then have a inside/outside model. This therefore limits me to an attendant only and zero independence affectively made housebound by this assessment process. With self funded mobility equipment I work full time, study, go food shopping and socalise. It is difficult to understand why this limit on provision is allowed to exist in this day and age.

[@Deecula]

My spine is fused with metal bars so can't walk far and in chronic pain, I'm also hard of hearing. When ppl find out I have a problem with my spine, they tell me to get up and walk around more often then I wouldn't need a wheelchair like they are experts on my condition. When ppl find out I'm hard of hearing they either talk to me like I'm simple or just say oh you can't hear me so I won't bother talking to you.

[@aymee_ye]

You have a really good one there, how people make assumptions about why you're disabled / in chronic pain / a wheelchair user and give suggestions on how you can fix it. A pet peeve of mine is quick fix suggestions - take specific supplements, do more exercise, eat a special diet. As if doctors hadn't thought of trying those things.

[@sharpma]

I was born with Cerebral Palsy almost 51 years ago. I do however have a few invisible disabilities as well, I live with A.D.D, anxiety, and depression. My biggest GRRRR situation is when people talk down to me, I am almost 51 please stop assuming because my legs don't work like the average person my intelligence is of a child.

[@geoffbimson715]

Hi Gem, I have spinal stenosis and scoliosis. These create a lot of pain so I cant walk a lot so use a wheelchair. I hate it when people see me walking and say theres nowt wrong with me. If only they knew !

[@RennellReed]

I hate when people assume that we're helpless. I have ASD and Blindness. Not that long ago, I went to the mall ....just browsing around. A woman says "Are you okay? Do you need help?" I have had people randomly pitch in and pay for my food/drinks at public events. It is my belief that they did it out of pity.

[@bandnerd1548]

I have random bouts of vertigo and fainting spells, so I use a mobility aid out in public, even when I'm having a "good day," to minimize the risk of falling. So many people assume since my gait changes as I walk, I'm attention seeking and don't actually need a mobility aid, when actually, I'm just taking advantage of the cane/walker I use to prevent falls if and when all the aches, pains, and strains from falling a lot flare up. Also, just because you see someone do something once, doesn't mean they can always do it. For example: most days I can put on my shoes with no problem. Other days, I get dizzy and fall flat on my face when I lean down to tie my laces.

[@sunshinenursery5698]

I have EDS I do have a wheelchair that I use on longer days like going to the aquarium or an amusment park but I do not use it all the time its so sad to me that people think ambulatory wheelchair users dont exist ! thank you for spreading awareness !❤♥

[@theservicerose5949]

I have focal seizures and selective mutism. I’m also in a wheelchair

[@johnvelas70]

A blind friend HATES the word visually impaired. She is blind, had 2 eyes surgically removed, glass eyes installed, which makes her blind.

[@lucilleavakian833]

My invisible disabilities include: Bipolar Disorder, Side Effects from Bipolar Disorder medications, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome - auto immune disorder. I use a rollator (walker with wheels and a seat) in public or an electric shopping cart scooter. I am unable to do grocery shopping without an electric shopping cart scooter. Side effects from medications that I require to live a stable life include weight gain and reduced cognition. As a fat middle aged woman, people in public sometimes look at me with disgust. They seem to think I spend all my time eating and sitting about. I'm choosing an unhealthy lifestyle because.... well fill in the blank. Being fat doesn't help my mobility issues, but it is not the cause, my auto immune disorder is. As this progresses or if I have a flare up, I need to remain seated a lot. I have found tips on wheel chair user's videos helpful, especially doing household tasks from a chair. But, no matter how a person ends up in a fat body isn't the point. The point is respect and accessability for all.

[@lisapinfold506]

Recently had a stroke in my 50s. People tend to look at me in a weird way when I unfold my walking stick or need to rest. Bloody annoying🙄

[@stevenford4719]

I am Disabled & have been For Many Years . Until recently I Didn’t need a wheelchair So I have had many people say something to me in a Attacking way about why do i need to use a disabled parking space even though i have a pass to park in one. And now that i am a ambulatory wheelchair user I have to deal with People telling me that I am Faking It to use the disabled parking. I don’t know why yet abled people seem to be so judgemental & they don’t get it. I can’t understand why they are Like that.Apart From Thinking that maybe they think that using Disabled Parking Is a bonus we get & that they are jealous of it …...

[@N0N4M30]

I suffer from EDS and Endometriosis both are invisible disabilities and chronic pain disease after an accident that left my left ankle permanent damaged. I look fairly fit because due to my syndrome and my height i need to have wrong muscles to keep myself standing up so I’ve been encountering discrimination against my disabilities due to looking “to fit” or “ to beautiful “ to be disabled. Also I live in a Teenie tiny country where I’m 1 out of only 3 people with that syndrome so there’s unfortunately no adequate medical care available and I have to go abroad to get treatment which isn’t covered at all by the health insurance.

[@Noel.Chmielowiec]

Thing that is most annoying for me is when I sit in the bus, not even on disability place and older people walk towards me and demand that I have to stand up and leave this space. I can't stand for long amounts of time, I would most likely to end up crying because of pain. People also always assume that I can't feel pain because I have spinal problems from birth. It doesn't work like that! Also with all of this I have bipolar disorder and terrible anxiety, so any confrontation is a horror for me. Invisible disabilities are hard. Just because I don't walk with cane yet (my doc said that it's most likely that I will have to at not distant future) doesn't mean that I'm not in pain. And I don't want to be on painkillers for the rest of my life just to make someone more comfortable. What infuriates me about all of this is also the argument that I'm too young to be as ill. Thank you, it cured me. Some people..

[@victoriakey9257]

I have an invisible disability. I have auditory figure-ground processing disorder and severe depression. My hearing problem effects my ability to communicate with others, to learn and I get overwhelmed and can't function in loud busy environments. My hearing problem doesn't give me special abilities, I am not alternatively abled or handicapable. My hearing problem isn't a good thing, it just is what it is and I am ok with that. My depression means sometimes I can't care for myself and I need help to shower and eat. I need medication to stay well. I am often exhausted and need a hand with basic things. Yes I am disabiled but I function really well with the supports I have in place. I am young, I have a masters degree and I work in healthcare. I am a fantastic advocate for myself because of my disability. I learn differently which means I am a good teacher. I work really well with my patients because I have an understanding of what its like to live with a disability. Disability isn't a bad thing. It makes us different ❤

[@sksksksksksk116]

I am visually impaired and when people see me with my cane rather I’m wearing shades are my glasses some people I would here is like oh there not blind there fracking and what they don’t know is that you can’t see or hear all disabilities and I hate that some people think that they can just park in handicap spots when there people who need those spots.

[@Brittany.Anderson]

I broke my left foot a month ago and I realized that the world is not made for those who may need to use knee scooter. The following I find to be quite challenging, rough pavement, bumpy surfaces, and cracks. One of my biggest annoyances about staying at some hotels is that the sink is completely blocked by a bathroom door if the door is open.

[@2pebles]

Here’s one I hear all the time... “ you don’t look like you have a disability, you look fine!”😒

[@RMBF89]

I was born with cerebral palsy and don't use a wheelchair or any walking aids. I have a disability parking permit - (I am from Canada just FYI) - We have been asked several times why I have one and why we are parking in marked spots ... as they don't see anything other than "someone with a limp'. BTW - Love your channel! I am a bit late to the party - and have been watching a ton of your videos over the last few days!

[@TimothyHartwig]

I have Crohn’s disease and depression. I suffered from flares of my conditions and with varying severity. Which can include more frequent bathroom use, fatigue, pain, a feeling of hopelessness, and changes in mood. I deal with the issue of people underestimating how bad it can get and expecting each flare will be the same.

[@loftyradish6972]

I have an invisible disability, and it is very variable. It is called fibromyalgia which is a chronic pain and fatigue condition which is neurological. My fibromyalgia is very well managed with medication and I have a very active lifestyle, so most people don't know that I have it. However, whenever I get sick, injured or are physically or psychologically stressed, my fibromyalgia joins the party and hits me seriously hard. I will become incredibly physically weak and my cognitive ability absolutely tanks, but as that happens, my vitals will stay in normal range. I had an awful flare up recently when I had my wisdom teeth removed. The fibromyalgia made the pain after extraction far more intense than what people without fibromyalgia could expect to feel. And then the fatigue hit as I was going to the emergency department of the hospital with my Mum. However, in the car, the flareup well and truly hit. I couldn't walk, I couldn't use my arms, I couldn't talk. I was aware of what was happening around me, but I was completely trapped. Drs and nurses were asking me questions but I didn't have enough brain to be able to answer them, I could manage one word answers that were extremely slurred and mumbled. Rather than read the medical alert on my phone that my Mum was trying to show them, they got angry with me. They thought I was being dramatic because of the pain and said in loud, angry voices "I can't help you if you don't talk to me" "well if you want to go floppy you can, but no one can help you because they will hurt their back" "you need to sit up straight and talk to me," "why aren't you opening your eyes, look at me" "lay down properly." It was awful. I was just crying because I physically, literally couldn't do the things they were angry with me for not doing. When they finally read what was on the phone and read what the situation actually was they started treating me nicer but I didn't get an apology. I am so scared of that happening again. I have it all written on my phone, but I can't force them to read it, can't even tell them to read it because sometimes I literally can't talk. I've ordered a medical ID necklace and bracelet, I'm going to trial if I get too many questions about my medical conditions by openly wearing a medical ID. People are weird about what questions they think it is appropriate to ask a total stranger as a social, small talk topic and I am a very private person.

[@AliceSylph]

I'm on tiktok and get "you're not disabled, you're just differently-abled 😚" ...... It took me a hell of a long time to accept that I'm disabled, grieve for the life I won't have, and move forward. My tiktok is about how my disability effects me, but also how I've trained my own assistance dog so I can live as independently as possible and enjoy the beautiful island I live on. I try to explain nicely to people why disabled isn't a bad word and, while I understand the intention, call me disabled because I am disabled. I have mostly invisible disabilities, but some are visible some of the time, like my seizures

[@peachxtaehyung]

I'm late but I think especially the stereotype that you should be over a certain age or look a certain way to be disabled needs to stop!

[@AGirlCalledNaomi]

Another great video Gem! I love your commitment to trying to raise awareness of disability; not just your disability but disability as a whole. I'm an ambulatory wheelchair user at home I use crutches or if needed my wheelchair but when I go out I always need to use my wheelchair (otherwise I wouldn't be able to go out!). I'm 28 and I can relate to what you've said in this video about disability in age. So many people assume I can't be disabled at my age and don't get me started on advertising for disability products where 97% of the time they use the older generation as models for their products. And then when social care is talked about like on documentaries or in the news they nearly always refer to older people who need social care - in response I turn to twitter and tweet the channel claiming that working age people use social care services too! I have hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that affects my joints and organs and it causes a lot of pain and fatigue. I also have PoTS - Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome so being able to sit in my wheelchair prevents me from fainting from standing and my blood pressure dropping and my heart rate going sky high. I also have a neurological condition called FND so this is a problem with my brain's messaging system so my mobility is affected and I can experience temporary paralysis and lot os other symptoms. Finally I have M.E - Myalgic Encephalopathy so I get fatigued very quickly as well as my pain levels increasing so being sat in my wheelchair means that my symptom flare-up from going out is reduced just a little bit. So yep I have a lot going on but each condition means I need a wheelchair to help me get around.

[@DANNYTHEFROG123]

I have RA and OA at 37. I am too young but that doesn't change the facts.

[@secretsquirrel7374]

I've never had any looks nor has anyone ever said anything to me. I've even sat in my car for ages before putting my blue badge up and still nobody has even looked in my direction. I must "look disabled" or something.

[@libby102e3]

Hello! I am a teenager made disabled by falling over (I was an ice skater) when I was 12. I developed a rare nerve condition called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. I can walk slowly and really not far, even with crutches. Only my left leg has been affected so far but it is showing sights of spreading. I was really reluctant to get a wheelchair, I was terrified about what people at school would think about me, so I got a blue one (as you do) and that really worked for me. I really struggle with my pain, and I have my GCSEs in the next few years so it’s super stressful. I can only stay at school for 1 or 2 hours most days. My school is really accessible with 3 toilets I can use and there is only one class that I can’t get into due to the angle of the door. So many people decided that i was faking when I first was on crutches. It’s crazy to me how long I was in pain hobbling just on crutches for the sake of staying out of the wheelchair for just that little bit longer. Life is really hard and I’ve never felt more isolated. This world is not built for disabled people. My brother (2 years older) is ableist but it’s nice when he decides to shut up. Idk what I’m even talking about now but I guess I just wanted to say thank you. You helped me through a tough time and these are the minuets of my day that I don’t feel so alone. Really, thanks x

[@risadarcy1565]

I have a few invisible disabilities: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a form of very severe chronic pain, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a genetic connective tissue disorder, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) causes muscle spasms and non-epileptic seizures and I'm currently waiting for test results for potential Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) which is a type of dysautonomia. But when I'm not using my crutches I look healthy and no-one else would know if I didn't tell them, and even when I do use my crutches people just assume I've sprained an ankle or something

[@jlastre]

I’m in Peoria, IL USA and have SLE/lupus. I walk with a cane (sometimes a rollator). When I use public transport I’m actually shocked when people offer me their seat even though by law I can request it. Actually had someone get mad and push me.

[@PhoebeFayRuthLouise]

I’m so glad Jessica was able to alert you to invisible disabilities! I subscribed to your channel after seeing you do the collaboration with her! I learn so much from your videos! Thank you!

[@cathycrochet7767]

I have severe crohn's disease. Right now I am well enough to drive. I use a handicap placard and I'm in my 30s. I sometimes use a cane or not. Even when I'm bent over in pain trying to get to the toilet, people still bother me. They are blind to the situation. The parking placard helps me get to the stores and back home.

[@yunhee93]

Yeah especially those who have cerebral palsy, we are able to walk but get tired or can't walk for a long time

[@kirstyevans6618]

Hi, I’m partially sighted, & also have mild cerebral palsy, so when I get out of the car using a disabled-space (I’m not driving lol) I get funny looks from some people some times & especially when I walk into people when I’m walking around if I’m walking on my own, I’ve had enough of being swore at & being told to watch where I’m going , I am now using symbol cane & some people still look at me funny