DISABILITIES

By Daniel J. Vance

September 2007 marked this column's fifth anniversary.

Its original purpose was to provide disability awareness, but not long thereafter this column morphed into a welcoming home for showcasing the everyday lives of people, real honest-to-God people, who just happen to have a disability.

Many newspaper editors and reporters, because they want their readers emotionally hooked in order to sell more newspapers, tend to portray people with disabilities as either victims to pity or superheroes to idolize. Rather, I do my absolute best to provide you with realistic snapshots, which often isn't an easy task given the limited number of words and the difficulties associated with gleaning reality.

As for tone, I try staying positive best I can. I've read some disability columnists that come off sounding vein-popping angry. Honestly, I don't know how they can sleep at night. Admittedly, there are times when stirring the pot is necessary, but being angry and demanding rights generally isn't my job. That's yours.

As do most organizations, I define being “disabled” as a person that has become substantially limited in at least one major life function. The latter includes walking, thinking, driving, working, seeing, hearing, even sleeping and eating. If you are new to this column you will soon learn that I cover a wide range of people with disabilities, from people with “hidden” disabilities such as schizophrenia, dyslexia and major depression, to more apparent ones, like quadriplegia, limb loss and blindness.

Most people associate having a disability with using a wheelchair, yet the overwhelming majority, more than 50 million of the 54 million Americans with a disability, don't use one. Most of these 50 million have disabilities you can't see. People with disabilities are everywhere. They usually have unique needs and often feel isolated because of their disability.

Over the years I've enjoyed more than anything receiving email from readers around the country. Some of my best columns have featured these readers. I try answering each email soon as possible, which sometimes may take up to a week. Email if you like.

Finally, this column is in your newspaper because of a decision made by your local newspaper editor. Almost without exception, these editors carry “Disabilities” because they have a disability, or have a friend, relative or neighbor with one. Therefore, they understand. Take the time this week, if you are able, to thank them.

For more, see danieljvance.com [This column made possible by a grant from Blue Valley Sod, www.bluevalleysod.com]