The world according to Gimp

I understand that there are those who may believe my use of the term 'gimp' is derogatory or demeaning. I do not use it lightly or to belittle anyone, it's just a lot easier for me to than 'disabled' or 'handicapped' because it uses a little snark or humor to something that could use a little of that. Or in this case, I specifically want to make light of my situation so that it doesn't feel depressing. For you or me.

Let me try to explain.

One of my pet peeves is the look of sympathy I get from well-meaning people. Like, "Aw, sweetie, I am so sorry that you are less abled, confined to a wheelchair and less able to live the full, active life that I lead."

I am in a wheelchair most of the time and my life is different because of that but in truth I never wanted to run a marathon of play pickleball or climb Mt. Baldhead (I've done the latter too many times usually bringing up the rear of the group I was with and/or being cheered on by the third-graders at the top of the stairs). I do miss dancing, and dancing while seated in a wheelchair just isn't the same for this disco queen.

I don't want sympathy.

what I want is for you to see me and not the chair or not see me as a person confined to a wheelchair.

I am also not a hero or heroic because I am 'overcoming'. That's just plain bull doo-doos, because the only thing I may be overcoming (if you see me out and about) is my strong desire to be home not having to confront any challenges that being in a wheelchair might present. Things like heavy doors and no automatic button to press to open the door or the entryway with a 'bump' that makes it difficult to get my chair over. Or being in at a gathering where everyone is mingling, standing up. Or gravel paths. Or grass. Or ... I think you get the picture. There are many obstacles but that's for another post. the gist here is that I am not a hero or God-forbid a 'saint' because I use a wheelchair. I am just a woman that needs a damn chair to traverse distances, who is likely swearing like a sailor in her head if she reaches an obstacle.

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