I made this video because of a conversation that happened in my comments, and honestly, I think it’s an important one to have.
Someone commented that because I can walk and can physically use a standard bathroom stall, I shouldn’t use an accessible stall and should leave it for wheelchair users or people with physical disabilities. Throughout the conversation, they repeatedly told me that, in my situation, using an accessible stall wasn’t necessary.
While I don’t think their intention was to be hurtful, it highlights a misconception that many people have: that you can determine whether someone needs an accommodation simply by looking at them.
I’m an ambulatory walker/wheelchair user, a Type 1 diabetic, cardiac condition,chronic pain , epilepsy patient, and a service dog handler. I also have other disabilities and accessibility needs that aren’t immediately obvious to strangers. Just because I can walk does not mean I don’t need accommodations. Disability is not one size fits all, and accessibility isn’t reserved for only one group of people.
For me, having additional space can be a safety issue, especially when navigating public restrooms with a large service dog. Accessibility is about more than whether someone can physically squeeze into a space it’s about being able to use that space safely and effectively.
I also want to point out that accessible stalls are not exclusively for wheelchair users. They exist for a variety of disabilities and accessibility needs, many of which are invisible. That’s why it’s important not to assume what accommodations someone does or doesn’t need based solely on appearance.
This video isn’t meant to attack anyone or start a hate campaign. The original comments may have even been deleted at this point. My goal is simply to educate and share a perspective that many people may not have considered before.
The biggest takeaway I hope people get from this is that disability doesn’t always look the way you expect it to. Sometimes the most accessible thing we can do is recognize that we don’t know someone else’s medical history, diagnosis, limitations, or needs just by looking at them.
Thank you to everyone who takes the time to listen, learn, and keep an open mind. ♿️🦮💙
#disabilityawareness #accessibilitymatters #InvisibleDisability #servicedoghandler #epilepsyawareness
Navigating public spaces with disabilities can often be challenging, especially when those disabilities aren’t outwardly visible. From my own experience, I’ve encountered frequent misunderstandings about who truly benefits from accessible facilities. Many assume that since I can walk, I don’t need an accessible stall, but accessibility encompasses more than just mobility—it's about safety, comfort, and managing one’s health needs effectively. For instance, having enough space inside an accessible stall can be a lifesaver when I’m accompanied by my large service dog, who assists me with epilepsy and other health conditions. Maneuvering in a standard stall can pose hazards not only due to confined space but also because of my cardiac condition and chronic pain. Without proper accommodations, I risk falls, injury, or triggering a medical episode. Another important aspect is that invisible disabilities, such as Type 1 diabetes or epilepsy, require accommodations beyond what is immediately visible. These conditions can cause sudden emergencies requiring quick and safe access to facilities. Accessible stalls provide the space and accommodations that can make a significant difference in these situations. Advocating for broader awareness is crucial because it challenges misconceptions about disability being a monolith or only something recognizable by a wheelchair. By sharing my personal journey, I hope to encourage others to consider that disability and accessibility are multifaceted and that empathy and open-mindedness can foster more inclusive public environments. Ultimately, accessible stalls serve all people who need them, whether their disabilities are visible or invisible. Recognizing this helps break down stigmas and supports a more inclusive society where everyone’s safety and dignity are prioritized.