Wheelchair Simulation

This past week I did my wheelchair simulation assignment and man as it tough! I honestly wasn't expecting it to be so hard. The day that I signed up to be in a wheelchair was a Tuesday which is that day I have my PE class. Whoever was teaching that day had to make accommodations for me to play the activity. I got the wheelchair and wheeled over to my first class and had to open the door. This was hard because I had to maneuver myself in the doorway before it closed and the door kind of closed on the wheelchair. Once I was in the classroom I had to move a chair out of the way so that I could wheel up to the desk, this was hard because you can't get very good control over the wheelchair and once you do, the wheelchair barely fits under the desk. After class was done my friend opened the door for me, (much easier that way), and then I wheeled myself to the bathroom and drinking fountain. This was an impossible task! No matter how hard I tried I could not get my body onto the toilet without using my legs! My next class was down the huge hill, going down was easy, going back up? Not so much. I was surprised that nobody offered to help to be honest. I really didn't want anyone to help me, but it was weird that nobody offered. When I got back to the Hinckley, finally, I rode the wheelchair back up the elevator and returned it.

I don't know why I thought this would be easier then it was, but I gained so much respect for those who have disabilities and are in a wheelchair. It was sad that nobody offered to help me. I don't know if this is because they're just rude, but I think it is because most people know that it is a requirement for SPED and they have been in my shoes. I had people open doors for me and they would say, "Ya I've been there" but nobody actually offered to push. I was proud of myself for being able to go up and down the hills though. This experience was really an eye opener for me. I have always felt bad for those who are in wheelchairs, but I never understood how difficult it really is until now. I know a lot of people in wheelchairs want to be independent, but now that I know the struggle I will always offer to help.