Hidden disability

I have had to deal with this issue myself. I now have 2 disabilities, AS and MS. During the winter, I may not look as disabled as in the summer, but there are days where it takes increased energy to make it to the carts in a store. In the summer, heat destroys energy. I have to park close to the door in order to make it inside. Walking across hot tarmac can destroy my day - I become a puddle. I have never been approached by a demand that I am not disabled. However I would say "My doctor decided that I am disabled enough that he/she recommends a parking placard. So yes, I am disabled."

Your rant is welcomed here with open arms! 😂 But seriously, I totally get where you're coming from. It’s so frustrating when people judge you just because you don’t look “sick.” Schwann’s Disease, Ankylosing Spondylitis, scoliosis, chronic pain, and iritis are all tough, hidden conditions that most people wouldn’t understand. And unfortunately, it happens way too often, but that doesn’t make it any easier to deal with. The truth is, just because someone can't see the struggle doesn't mean it isn't there. You absolutely deserve to be understood and supported, even if others don’t get it. Don’t apologize for venting, sometimes you just need to let it out! Hope it helped! -Latoya (Team Member)