Words Matter: Always think before hitting that send button!

This story highlights the importance of carefully considering our words and messages when communicating with other members of the disability community. 

Initially, I chose not to disclose one of the primary reasons for my anxiety resurfacing. By sharing this story, the individual who unintentionally triggered my anxiety will recognize that I am referring to them. This post is not meant to criticize them, as they likely did not understand the impact of their messages. People often believe they are being helpful, but their actions can also have unintended consequences. Such as taking away all my self-confidence.

It all started wherever I posted about suffering a fall or injury, this person would always message me, insisting that I needed to be in a wheelchair. They repeatedly told me that I was going to break my leg or ankle and never walk again. This constant messaging instilled fear in me every time I left the house, making me believe their predictions would come true. Eventually, this led to debilitating anxiety, preventing me from going anywhere. 

Now, I use a mobility scooter, although I still have the ability to walk short distances. I firmly believe that individuals living with Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD) know when it is time to use a wheelchair or a mobility scooter. As I have mentioned before, what works for one person with BMD might not work for another. Some may not have reached the stage that requires full-time wheelchair use. Many individuals with BMD live in an intermediate stage, where they can walk but also need mobility aids such as a cane, mobility scooter, or wheelchair.

I have to say, I've never sent messages to people warning them that something bad is going to happen to them. It's just not healthy to scare others like that. I wish more people understood that deciding when to start using certain mobility aids is a personal choice. Now I definitely want to do everything I can to avoid any life-altering injuries, which is why I already use a cane and a mobility scooter. It's totally okay to remind someone to be careful, but it crosses the line when you tell them something bad will happen if they don't start to use your preferred mobility aid. We really need to think before we make comments or send messages that might not be helpful and might unintentionally cause worry and fear.

I guess we all need to think a bit before posting comments or sending messages. It’s important to make sure we don't accidentally cause any harm with our words.