Sana
Empathizing with individuals who use wheelchairs is an essential step towards fostering a more inclusive society.
We often find ourselves encountering situations that challenge our perceptions and assumptions. In this post, we delve into a remarkable story that unfolded in the aisles of a grocery store, where a seemingly ordinary interaction took an unexpected turn, leaving both parties with a newfound perspective. It was a bustling grocery store, filled with shoppers navigating the aisles in search of their desired items. Amidst the commotion, a wheelchair-bound girl, in gray shorts and a teal top, was also searching for some items. Her physical appearance distinctly sets her apart from the store employees, who don black pants and either a black or tan shirt. Little did OP know that a chance encounter with a determined customer, whom we’ll refer to as Karen, would shatter her preconceived notions and illuminate the power of perception.
As the story unfolds, Karen approaches OP, unaware of her limitations, and requests assistance in retrieving an item from a high shelf. Obliging but puzzled, OP tries to comprehend the task at hand. Misunderstandings ensue, as Karen insists that OP, as a presumed store employee, should prioritize customer service. Scroll down to know what happened next.
OP, an amputee who lost her left leg in a car accident in summer 2017, shares an incident that occurred around two to three weeks after getting her cast off.
OP, wearing a teal top and gray shorts, was in a wheelchair with one leg at a Safeway grocery store. She was in a hurry and browsing the baking aisle to pick up items for dinner.
OP was approached by an older lady who asks for help. Despite her reluctance, OP agrees to assist. It was evident from her attire, gray shorts, and teal top, that she was not an employee of the store:
Advertisement
Karen approaches OP and requests an item from a high shelf, pointing to it. OP, who is in a wheelchair and lacks the necessary balance to stand without her crutches, acknowledges that she would have helped if she was physically capable.
OP questions what she wants from her. Karen expresses her desire for OP to retrieve the item. Karen suggests OP to stand up and get it. 
Advertisement
During the exchange, Karen insists that OP should help customers because it is the responsibility of an employee. However, OP fails to grasp the implication initially. Karen clarifies that she is referring to OP as the one who should prioritize customer assistance.
After observing OP’s appearance more closely, Karen’s expression changes dramatically. After realizing this, Karen hastily departs from the scene.
Whether OP was an employee or not, is a separate debate but one shouldn’t expect a wheelchair-bound person to stand up and help them. It’s a selfish request that only Karens can make.
What were you expecting, Karen?
Why would someone expect a wheelchair-bound person to stand up and grab something from a high shelf?
What exactly Karen was expecting OP to do:
“That’s exactly what she was expecting.”
Karen needs glasses:
Have you ever found yourself in a similar situation, where initial judgments proved to be far from the truth? What lessons did you learn? We would love to hear your perspectives and experiences. Leave your comments below.
The cat tax:
“Seeing this made my day.”
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings