I have another challenge for you. No it’s not standing on one leg again, but it is a challenge that will help you get to know me a bit better. I challenge you to be aware. Of what you ask? To be aware of the things and the people that surround you. That you interact with no matter how often or how occasional it may be. What is something that you never noticed before about this specific person or thing? And once you identify it, I promise it will be something that you keep in the back of your minds for quite sometime.

Do you know what I am aware of? There are many places that do not have handicap entrances. It’s something I was totally oblivious to until I became an amputee and realized how nice they are to have. And I know that many of you have family member or friends or yourself that are relieved when you see that little blue square at an entrance too. I have noticed this situation in a variety of places that all age groups of the public go to. Post offices, restaurants, doctors offices, businesses and even funeral homes are in this boat of not having a handicap entrance. And I’m talking in our own community. I’m able to make due without one because I am still young and able to swing the door open wide enough to squeeze through quickly. But I do realize that someday that won’t be the case so I feel the need to make others, like you reading this right now, aware of it too. Because this situation doesn’t just impact those missing a limb but also those who are getting up there in age, or just had ACL surgery, or just twisted their ankle enough that they have to use one of the propped up leg carts. Yes, I know that many people have family and friends that aid them in their errand runs or visits to different places, and that is a wonderful thing. But what about those who still have that independent mindset? Isn’t the situation of not having doors that make it a bit easier to enter a building for those independent people that need it take away from what they long to hold onto for as long as possible? Their independence?

I get it. Things like a handicap entrance cost money. And it can be an expensive addition to existing buildings. But lets get creative here people. How about a door bell outside of the doctors offices that don’t or can’t have a handicap entrance? Put a sign on the door that says ring if you need assistance with the door? An idea that was thought of at my own doctors office. And I really appreciate it. Things like heavy doors are often overlooked by people and architects that are able bodied. So be aware people. Write your local town committee about helping fund getting handicap entrances around your community. Let’s make going to the post office not so difficult for the people who already live a difficult life. Be aware of ALL the people in your community, not just the one’s who are like you. Because I know of at least one person that will thank you for it, and that would be me. Be aware people, because there are loads more of things we can make minor adjustments to that will improve our community for all age groups. We just have to look from a different angle. Because we aren’t getting any younger and one day you may be relieved to see that little blue square next to the door. End rant.

#TheOneLeggedMommy #HandicapEntrance #BeAware #SoUseful #Amputee #Amputation #NecrotizingFasciitis #Community #HelpOthers