Columns

There is no ‘hierarchy’ of disability

Recently, an image depicting a “disability hierarchy” has gone viral on social media, sparking controversy within the disability community. The pyramid has three levels that seem to indicate the severity of one’s disability: Wheelchair users are at the top, people with limb differences and other visible disabilities are in…

Travel plans go awry when masking up isn’t an option

I have Cushing’s disease, so I always travel with a mask. That’s because whenever I’ve gotten sick with something like COVID-19 or norovirus, it’s taken me out for weeks and posed great risk to my health. Even a common cold has landed me in bed for several days. That…

On disability pride, ableism, and a tough set of emotions

Pride can be confusing for me. Yes, of course, I’m proud of my advocacy work. I’m proud of what my disability and my Cushing’s disease have led me to be. But as Disability Pride Month, celebrated in July, approached this year, I found myself feeling disconnected. Right now,…