Post by @VaylLarkinPoet@disabled.social

2026-09-20 14:28 UTC

@RosethornRanger@spore.social I'd add that Not using accessibility tools when you, "only need them sometimes", can directly result in more extreme, long-term disability. I danced through severe arthritis and spinal deterioration until I was 32, and I was a"hero". By 40, I couldn't walk more than a few meters on my own. Please listen to your body and do what it tells you to do, even if you feel weak for it, even if someone else makes you feel bad, even if you're really scared. It's entirely worth it. <3

Replies (2)

@Soleilh@eldritch.cafe 2026-09-23 18:54

@VaylLarkinPoet@disabled.social @RosethornRanger@spore.social this !! I struggled for years having difficulties to walk sometimes and was ashamed of dreaming about a cane. Then, I dreamt of a rollator, still ashamed and also already too tired about everything to even buy one. Of course, last year, I was so exhausted by standing up and walking that I was thinking of wheelchair, still ashamed. I learnt at this period I had ME/cfs and that in fact a electric wheelchair was the best for me, and still feel like it was "too much" to ask. Now I am bedbound 24/24 since 5 months, and I understood that yes having mobility aid is ok whatever the raisons you have, go for it. And also, wheelchairs are sooo cooool I love them, I am so excited to recover enought to use one again !!

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@Robotistry@fediscience.org 2026-09-25 10:31

@VaylLarkinPoet@disabled.social @RosethornRanger@spore.social I discovered I wanted an electric chair when I rented one for a conference where I knew the walking would be too much and it was *amazing*. Then my work offered a scooter when I requested accommodations (it had just been returned by someone else and was cluttering up their offices) and I jumped at it. I didn't need it often (I wasn't able to get in often), but when I did, it was the difference between "present" and "functional". So I asked my family for an electric chair for Christmas, and they got together and bought it for me. I don't use it often (I struggle with arthritis in my hands that flares when I use it to move long distances), but every time I use it I feel so free and capable!

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