A mission to help the invisible

I possess a remarkable superpower: invisibility! Not the kind Sue Storm wields intentionally; I’m invisibility incarnate, effortlessly blending into the background. Want to join the invisible league? Just acquire a wheelchair, and voilà! You’re cloaked in automatic invisibility, guaranteeing hours of amusement as you go about your daily routine.

Invisibility opens up a realm of unexpected encounters. Ever played Chicken with “phone zombies”? Those oblivious souls lost in their screens, ignorant to the world around them? I have. I stop dead in my tracks, daring them to notice me first. More often than not, I end up with a surprise passenger on my lap, scoring bonus points if they blame me for the collision.

But every superhero has their kryptonite, and mine is the do-gooder, or as I call them, “The DG.” They see through my cloak and swoop in, uninvited, to lend a hand. Their intentions are noble, but their execution disastrous. I’ve nearly been yanked out of my chair by their well-meaning but misguided efforts.

Some DGs do ask, but suffer from selective hearing, incapable of registering a simple “no.” They offer help without truly listening, then recoil in offense when their toes meet my wheels in a doorway I’ve asked them to avoid.

To the phone zombies: Look up once in a while; you might miss something extraordinary.

To the do-gooders: Ask, then ask again before leaping into action. Respect our autonomy; don’t strip away our independence with unsolicited aid.

In the midst of these humorous escapades lies a deeper truth: navigating the world with a disability can be both challenging and empowering. It’s a constant dance between independence and assistance, where every well-meaning gesture carries the risk of undermining self-sufficiency. Yet, amidst the trials, there’s resilience, wit, and a fierce determination to live life on our terms. So, the next time you encounter someone in a wheelchair, see beyond the chair, and recognize the superhero within – navigating a world not built for them with grace, humour, and an indomitable spirit.

Helens Wheels aims to raise awareness and ensure a positive, dignified customer journey for your disabled clients and users. For consultancy services and disability awareness training, reach out to us.