Scooter user encounters rudeness

I use to be able to walk through Independence Center people-watching and shopping without any difficulty. I would occasionally encounter someone rude, but usually people were polite. I saw Independence Center from a different perspective last Friday.

This was my first time out at a mall using a mobility scooter. Shoppers apparently couldn’t see me. I had to back down aisles that were very narrow. I had to wait for the elevator longer because people wouldn’t shift to let me on, and I had trouble getting off because of people trying to get on as I exited. One person actually told me to get out of the way in the pet store. I also found that many items were out of my reach. It was so frustrating.

The trip really opened my eyes and heart to all of us who are mobility-challenged and aren’t eye-level with the rest of the world. We, too, have eyes, thoughts and feelings. I don’t expect any special treatment. I do expect to be treated with the same courtesy and dignity as others.

Annette Briggs
Odessa, Mo.

Comments

[Casady]

You're right Rouge,why should we have to put up with small inconviences just to accommodate someone in a wheelchair. After all, if they can't use their legs, that their problem, not mine!

[Rogue]

Read the letter Hopalong, "I also found that many of the items were out of my reach". Ergo, what is the solution except to lower the counters to accomadate her special needs?

Remeinds of when the ADA was passed. The government told banks they had to put brail commands on the drive-up cannisters!

[Casady]

Where does Ms. Briggs ask that store counters be lowered to 30 inches? Seems to me that she is just asking for people to not be so rude and inconsiderate. Then again, that is probably too much to ask these days.

[Rogue]

Annette I am 6'4", and I would not appreciate all counters in stores being lowered to 30" just to accomadate you.

People are absolutely becoming nuts. Water supply?