Dear Editor,
Re: “Disabilities not always obvious to the public,” Letters, Aug. 1.
In response to S. Reimann’s letter, I share the concerns that were raised...that some disabilities are not always apparent. As a legally blind person myself, who does use a white cane, the stigma that is sometimes felt can be quite overwhelming as I’m sure S. Reimann is aware.
The number of times I’ve been stared at by both adults and children in public places such as a mall or restaurant are too numerous to count. Some workers at fast-food outlets are not quite sure how to deal with a sightless person. People who walk into you, or don’t allow sufficient room to pass, and then say, “Watch where you’re going” or “Can’t you see?” A favourite is, “Do you know what you’re doing?”
There are people with disabilities all around us, some visible, some not so visible, and a great many of us are contributing members not only of this community, but this province and this country. Some of us even raise families and hold down jobs and careers. It is my belief that when one talks about courage and perseverance, look no further than to the person with a disability. Never underestimate what that person is capable of performing.
Marc Wong
RICHMOND
P.S. A special magnification/reader program for my computer allows me the freedom to write this myself.
