Accessibility is an Afterthought

These photos can really speak for themselves, but I will add a little commentary.

These images are physical examples of accessibility being an afterthought, but there is so much more. So much unseen and unspoken. It is searching on a website of a restaurant, event venue, hotel, etc. for accessibility information to find…nothing. Then, the added step of emailing, calling, and waiting. Waiting for a response as to whether or not we can even access the building. Will we be met with disappointment or excitement? What does accessibility mean to them? Do they offer the bare minimum for appearances or is the location truly accessible? Will there be parking, will there be a sidewalk, will there be a bathroom, will someone let us know if the elevator is broken, will accessible seat locations cost more (like at TD Garden, where the average accessible ticket to the Bruins game was 46% more expensive than a standard ticket)? Before we go anywhere, I have to calculate all of these things. I have to consider the safety of each place as to whether or not I can manage my attention between caring for my husband and caring for my children. I carry myself with low expectations, knowing that there will be roadblocks.

Luckily, I am a flexible person, and have learned to work with what I’ve got! You know the saying, if life gives you lemons… ALS is a big, huge, freaking lemon! 

One day at a time, 

Leah

P.S. don’t park like these assholes, and tell your friends the same.

P.P.S Rich started a new Lego Instagram account @Brickabled, come check it out! He is taking part in a Lego competition on Reddit as well. See his submission here “Happy (mini) Valentine’s Day” and VOTE HERE his is #18!