I'M Disabled, Not Stupid

Some people can be so ignorant
I know they're not to blame
They see me in my wheelchair
And say “Aw, isn't it a shame”?

I say “Hello, I’m fine”
And you don't know what to do
Just because I am disabled
Don't assume my brain is too

Whenever you get stressed
You can walk along the beach
With no facilities for the disabled
To me it’s out of reach

I'd like to go on holidays
But I stay at home instead
Because no matter where I go
I need a hoist to go to bed

My bowel and my bladder
Are affected by my medication
It angers me when disabled toilets
Have poor sanitation

On the bus, the driver puts down a ramp
And I can hear you whinge
When your shopping trolley is in my way
And sometimes my wheels impinge

I wait at zebra crossings 
And I know my green cross code
But the timing on the lights means
I don't have time to cross the road

My legs may no longer work
But my brain power is perfect
So next time you see me in the town
Please have some respect

If you'd like to know how I am
Don't be afraid to ask
My disability isn't catching
And it isn't a difficult task

I'll tell you how I am
And I’ll ask how you are too 
Overlook my disability
It isn’t hard to do
Copyright © | Year Posted 2017

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Palli Avatar
February 5, 2017 at 8:26 AM
Love this! Well written about a delicate subject. Hope it reaches far and wide.
Turner Avatar
February 4, 2017 at 7:55 AM
I've encountered the same problem, myself, Jenny. Great write!
Pigeon Tart Avatar
February 4, 2017 at 7:34 AM
Fabulous write Jenny! Everyone should read. Perspective is hard to come by when people's eyes are closed. Thank you so much for sharing your powerful voice. Hugs Mo
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace