I had one customer ask me what I had done whilst on walking sticks one day. Rather than explain the whole Good day/Bad Day and as I wasn't able to tell him where to go I brushed it off as me being clumsy and left it at that.My boss heard and took me into the staff room for a word. I wondered if I should have not said anything - a lot of our role is working with children and parents can be very protective about the information they give them. And I was correct in thinking I was in trouble with her - but not for the reason I thought. She said to me - " Don't you ever lie about your disability again. Firstly if anyone does like it or has issues with it they can get the F*** out of my shop. Secondly Your disability is a part of you and your experiences make you, you. You have a natural empathy with the quieter kids, the kids who come in on their way to hospitals and doctors and can relate in a way none of us can. Be proud of who you are"
Whilst reminding me how lucky I am to be surrounded by individuals who support me so much (given some of the horror stories I have heard) it made me realise I do down play my disability, put a brave face on, Grin and bear it for the sake of others. Why?! My closest friends and family know what I go through so no point hiding from them. And anyone else - who cares!
So I wanted to pass this on to you. I have only classed myself as disabled in the last 2 years or so and am still adjusting to my "new life" so to those of you in the same boat remember how my boss finished my conversation - " Those who matter don't mind, those who mind don't matter"
My Family - Who don't mind and who matter so much. :-)
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