The Myths That The General Public Believes About Individuals Living With Paralysis
Yes, somethings still work.
2. Life must be so sad. (18.0%)
A lot of people think that we are not suppose to be intelligent, productive people who enjoy living a full life doing those very same things that people who are not paralyzed like to do. We work, fall in love, get married and raise a family, we have a social life, yes we do enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
3. Number one wish is to walk. (14.8%)
Every opportunity I get, I let people know that paralysis is so much more than not walking.
4. Mind must not work either. (13.0%)
People seem to automatically associate impaired physical function with a mental deficiency. "I broke my spine, not my mind."
5. Must not have any pain. (9.9%)
People think, well your paralyzed that means you can't feel anything, How could you possibly have pain?
6. Unable to have a successful career/family/life. (9.2%)
So many people want to believe that we are better if we don't have hope of ever walking again. But in reality, many of us have come to terms with our respective situations and have chosen to make the best of it.
7. Only medical problem is the paralysis. (8.8%)
There is significant neuropathic pain, bowel and bladder control, fighting with insurance companies, reduced energy, changed relationships, loss of independence, lack of access to our homes an no financial help for needed accessibility adaptions or exercise equipment, increased infections and lack of appropriate sensation that allows for some spectacular accidents.
8. Have all expenses paid by the government. (3.9%)
Yeah, because we, as individuals, are part of a disadvantaged minority group, we all must either be on the government dole, or looking for a handout.
9. Always want help. (3.5%)
No matter what, I should always be nice and gratefully for any unwanted help I get !