Why am I using a handicapped spot

[Guest guest]

This is what I started working on as something to give to anyone who

asks what I am doing in a handicap spot. I'd like to shorten it up some.

Thought it may give some of you a few ideas. The paragraph on EDS is

italicized and bolded in another color

Why I am using a handicapped spot?

Handicapped spots make people think of those in wheelchairs. Actually

such a spot is available to anyone with a mobility problem or with

physical problems which prevent them from walking long distances (like

someone with emphysema or heart problems). A doctor has to support the

application for a handicap permit. Not just anyone can get one. Many

using the spots have invisible disabilities that are hard for others to

spot. For some (like) me, with my potential for joints giving out and

falling, the less walking in a parking lot, the better. I am also

limited in how far I can walk and fatigue quickly.

I have a rare genetic disorder called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. It is a

collagen disorder which affects every part of my body. Every time I

move, every step I take multiple bones or joints come partly or

completely out of joint. I suffer thousands of these a day. I have to

use narcotics because my lower back is very unstable and grinds,

crunches, and pinches with every movement. I can fall with no warning

and can only walk limited distances. I cannot use a cane although I need

one - my joints are so unstable I cannot hold one steadily. Because of

my joint problems and muscle weakness, I need extra room to get in my

car. Check out www.ceda.ca and www.ednf.org/ to learn more.

I am glad you asked me if I was entitled to be in this spot. When people

do not see wheelchairs, crutches, and canes they sometimes think the

person is abusing the spot. Sometimes that is true - non handicapped

family members use people permits thinking they are getting preferential

close parking not thinking they are doing any harm. Some sit and idle

their cars waiting for someone to come out of a store. That hurts people

like me, especially if there are only one or a few spots. Sometimes

people forget to put their permit up after pulling in the spot. And of

course, there are people with no plates or permits who have no business

being there. That is why it is important people like you speak up. I

don't mind talking about my condition and I am not offended that you

asked. I'm actually glad you did! And keep asking. Not enough people are

willing to speak up. I am glad you were.