Awareness...Perhaps Not!

After my recent medical fiasco (previous post) I had to get an expemption from my upcoming jury duty. I had already had one postponement BUT now I realized I needed a medical exemption. My neurologist was more than happy to oblidge and write a note to the court. So I call the New York Superior Court to straighten out the situation & get on the phone with a woman with whom I proceed to explain my situation & ask about what the next steps should be. She proceeded to ask me the dreaded question..." your disabled & your NOT on disability?" I have to admit I was speechless! I quickly picked my jaw up off the floor & responded that no, I am not on disability I am self employed & combined with my medical condition it would be hard to serve at this time. Again she said okay, so your NOT on disability?

Why is there this assumption that just because you have a disability you must be on disability assistance? Was it her belief that due to my medical condition I was unable to work, hold down a job or just function! This has really sent my mind racing to think that awareness of those with disabilities has come as far as one would hope. That infact we as a community MUST be our own advocates & heed the words " Nothing About Us Without Us!"