United Spinal’s newest peer support group, Walking Rollers, is a space for ambulatory wheelchair users.
The group will be facilitated by Rob Henry, a board member our Michigan chapter and coordinates their peer mentor program. He was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome in January 2019 and was paralyzed from the neck down. Through physical therapy he regained the ability to walk for short distances but uses a power chair as his main method of mobility.
Henry hopes the group can show participants users that they don’t have to feel guilty about the stigma that surrounds ambulatory wheelchair users. “I know at times people will look at somebody who can stand up from a wheelchair and rudely say ‘why do you use a wheelchair if you can walk?’ I know I’ve gotten funny looks before,” says Henry.
“I hope this group shows that there are many others out there like them and helps them navigate the world in an easier way.”
Ambulatory wheelchair users to follow:
“GASP! My legs work, but my spinal cord is a hot mess. #AmbulatoryWheelchairUser,” says Claire Raymond.
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“Did you know the MAJORITY of wheelchair users can move their legs, stand or even walk to some degree?” says Kelcie Miller-Anderson.
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“People assume that because I can walk, I don’t need my wheelchair or that I’m faking my disability. This ignorance not only invalidates my experiences but also makes it harder for me to navigate the world,” says Annie Segarra.
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“I am very obviously faking my degenerative genetic disorder. Thank you, stranger who has never met me,” says Ryann Mason. The featured image is courtesy of Ryann as well.
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Join Walking Rollers on the 4th Monday of every month: unitedspinal.org/events/walking-rollers/
United Spinal supports and empowers all wheelchair users. Find support. Sign up for our free membership. Donate to support our mission.