Parking Challenges: Disabled and Unrecognized

Parking, oh boy, let me tell you, it’s a headache for anyone. But being disabled and not fitting into society’s narrow perception of disability? That’s a whole different level of infuriation. 

In this article, I will talk about how as a disabled person, I was confronted over my parking in a disabled spot and highlight the anger and frustration that comes with being disabled and unrecognized.

What is an Invisible Disability?

An invisible disability refers to a medical condition or impairment that is not immediately apparent or visible to others. 

Unlike disabilities that are physically evident, such as using a wheelchair or having a visible physical deformity, invisible disabilities are not visibly noticeable. 

They can include a wide range of conditions, such as chronic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, mental health disorders, autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, and many others. 

These disabilities can significantly impact a person’s daily life, yet they may not be readily apparent to others, leading to misunderstandings, skepticism, and a lack of recognition or support.

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 26% of adults have some form of disability, with about 13% having a severe disability. It is important to note that this includes visible and invisible disabilities.

The Assumption of Visible Disabilities

Living with a disability is tough, but here’s the catch: I don’t fit the expected image of disability. My battle is with an unseen condition. NMO surprises me with flare-ups at unpredictable times.

Although it may not be obvious at first glance, I can’t see with my right eye and often experience blurred vision in my left eye. Chronic pain and mobility issues also add to my struggles.

Since losing my right eye, I can’t drive, so my husband assists me. Yet, we face confrontations when he parks in a disabled spot on my behalf. Can you believe it?

Once, we were attacked while leaving a local retailer. This lady had the audacity to criticize us, claiming I seemed fine. My husband chose to ignore her, refusing to stoop to her level.

But I couldn’t stay silent. I told her that “I have a rare disease called NMO, affecting only 1 in 200,000 people. Due to my condition, I was awarded (LOL) a placard to use those parking spots that seem to bother people like you”.

Fortunately, an employee who recognized us intervened and warned her to back off or face police involvement for violating my rights. I wanted to push further, but my husband reminded me that perhaps she was simply having a bad day and we happened to be her outlet.

Relieved that my husband calmed me down, I closed the door, grateful for his rationality and the support he provided. But let’s address the root issue: the assumption that disabilities are always visible.

Newsflash, everyone! Not all disabilities are apparent to the naked eye. Conditions such as chronic pain, neurological disorders, and certain autoimmune diseases aren’t plastered across my forehead.

So, when we park in a disabled spot, we face skepticism and judgment. Can’t we all open our minds a little?

Emotionally Draining Confrontations

Confrontations over disabled parking spots drain me emotionally. I have to deal with the stares, the comments, and the verbal abuse from strangers who think they’re the parking police. 

They assume I’m misusing the spot just because I don’t fit their preconceived notions. It’s degrading, demoralizing, and downright infuriating. 

Can’t we just park without being harassed?

Coping Strategies for Confrontations

When faced with emotionally draining confrontations regarding disabled parking spots, it’s essential to have coping strategies in place to navigate these challenging situations. 

Here are some strategies that can help:

Stay Calm and Composed: It’s natural to feel angry or frustrated when confronted, but try to remain calm and composed. Take deep breaths, count to ten, or repeat a calming mantra to regain your composure.

Educate and Advocate: Instead of getting into an argument, take the opportunity to educate others about invisible disabilities. Explain that not all disabilities are visible and share some information about your specific condition. Be an advocate for awareness and understanding.

Carry Documentation: Keep a copy of your disabled parking permit or any supporting documents with you. If confronted, you can provide evidence to support your use of the parking spot.

Seek Support: Reach out to supportive individuals who understand your situation. Talk to friends, family, or support groups who can provide empathy, advice, and encouragement during difficult encounters.

Practice Self-Care: Engage in self-care activities that help you manage stress and recharge emotionally. This can include hobbies, mindfulness exercises, spending time in nature, or seeking professional counseling if needed.

Choose Your Battles: Not every confrontation needs a response. Assess the situation and decide if it’s worth engaging in a potentially draining argument. Sometimes, it’s better to prioritize your well-being and let go of negative encounters.

Focus on the Positive: Remind yourself of the people who show kindness and understanding. Celebrate the moments when someone acknowledges your invisible disability without judgment. Surround yourself with positive experiences and relationships.

Report Harassment: If a confrontation escalates into harassment or becomes physically threatening, do not hesitate to report it to the appropriate authorities. Your safety should always be a priority.

The Frustration of Misused Privileges

Oh, but wait, it gets better. There are those individuals who misuse disabled parking permits like it’s some kind of trendy accessory. 

They pretend to need the spot, while I’m standing there, struggling with my invisible disability. Their entitlement makes my blood boil. 

Not only does it make my life harder, but it also reinforces the misconception that disabilities are always visible. Bravo, you fakers! 

The Power of Proper Documentation

By the way, if you’re battling an invisible disability like me, make sure you have all the damn paperwork to prove it. 

I’m talking about the disabled parking permits, not the placard. It won’t stop the confrontations, but at least you’ll have something to shove in their ignorant faces. 

Trust me, it helps to have a shield against their unwarranted accusations.

The Need for Education and Awareness

You know what we need? Education and awareness. Society needs a wake-up call. 

We need campaigns that shout, “Hey, disabilities come in all shapes and sizes!” 

We need people to understand that just because they can’t see my disability doesn’t mean it’s not real. We need empathy, compassion, and a little common sense.

Top 20 Invisible Diseases Qualifying for Parking Placards

1. Chronic pain conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome)

2. Chronic fatigue syndrome

3. Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO)

4, Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)

5. Multiple sclerosis (MS)

6. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS)

7. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

8. Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)

9. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

10. Crohn’s disease

11. Ulcerative colitis

12. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD)

13. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

14. Mental health disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder)

15. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

16. Epilepsy

17. Migraines or severe headaches

18. Asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

19. Diabetes (if it causes significant mobility or impairment issues)

20 Heart conditions (e.g., congestive heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias)

Conclusion

The frustrations of parking while disabled and not “looking” disabled are enough to make anyone want to scream. 

Confrontations over disabled parking spots are a stark reminder of society’s lack of understanding and empathy. 

It’s time to break down those narrow-minded perceptions and create a world where all disabilities are recognized and respected. Can’t we all just park in peace?