18/06/2026
A friendly PSA from one of your favorite wheelchair users: PLEASE stop leading with “what happened to you” or “what’s wrong with your legs.”
You don’t even know my name, yet you expect me to relay to you such personal information?!
Before I became a wheelchair user, I worked part-time as server & bartender. I had wheelchair users come to my bar all the time. You know what NEVER crossed my mind? Asking what happened to them.
Because that’s not an actual connection...that’s curiosity dressed up as conversation.
For a lot of people, that question could trigger a trauma response. They could’ve been in a car accident a few months ago. Or they’ve been disabled their whole life and are exhausted from explaining.
If you genuinely want to connect with someone, try starting with their name. Ask what they do, what they’re into, what brings them here.
You know...human stuff.
Wheelchair users, what’s something you wish people understood about how they approach us? ⬇️♿️💪