50 million disabled/census

[Guest guest]

,

Same goes for me - as a child with CMT there weren't any 'rights' for

me, or even rights for my parents having a child with CMT. " Tough Luck "

was indeed what is was all about. I made up 'my rights' by simply

refusing treatment or to go to certain doctors. But I had to - there was

no protection and then I got to that clinical trial program and even

when I wanted out (which was 'my right' in the contract) it was he--.

There were no ramps, parking spaces, accessible baths, etc. There was

nothing except feeling 'left out' big time.

How wonderful it is now for the 50 million disabled in this country at

least for the physical conveniences for starts. And also the right to

have access to all my medical files and tests. Recently when I refused

the flu shot, my Internist was very upset. I said I was exercising my

right to refuse medical care. He was so surprised and shocked, but

agreed it was my right.

So many avenues are opening for human civil rights - it is a shame that

disabled people are still 'in the back of the bus' in many ways; but I

am hopeful more positive changes will come for us.

Reading over this is sounds like I am some old dinosaur - but going from

no rights to rights in my lifetime in so many ways is a good thing. It

has just taken a long time.

~ Gretchen