Disability Positivity

 I live in a neighbourhood where I can walk and drive my wheelchair to any store or restaurant I want to go to.  However, because I use a power wheelchair to get around, I also require a ramp to get into places safely. Most stores  and restaurants offer a ramp, but those that don’t, I often have to wait outside while my parents go in to get what we want or need.  These types of situations make me feel sad and excluded.

 A  brand new Tim Hortons opened up on Roncesvalles with a 6-inch step and no accessible ramp for people like me and strollers.

When my Dad went in to get me some donuts, he asked the owners why they didn’t have a ramp. They said that due to building codes, a ramp is not required for the restaurant. My Dad said, “Can you please explain that to my daughter, who has tons of gift cards for all of the volunteer work she does with March of Dimes?” Their response was, “Oh, would you like anything else?”

After that interaction, my Dad and I decided to go to the media with the story. Two days later, someone from City News came to my house to interview me and my Dad about this story. The interview was quite long and detailed.I am famous for a good reason. Advocating for accessibility and inclusion is sometimes challenging, but it’s worth it in the long run.