Handicap Parking Permit

[Ojibajo]

Although I am physically doing pretty well, I do struggle with fatigue and occassionally have problems with physical weakness, mostly in my left side. I do have a handicap parking permit.

Had anyone ever had anyone give them trouble because someone didn't think they looked "crippled" enough? Some lady the other day felt the need to play parking lot police with me.

[Ojibajo]

Thanks Everyone. Lulu's advice was pretty good to. It irked me, because I don't like using it, but sometimes I have to and her drawing attention to it just made me feel crappy.  I wasnt rude, but didnt keep my mouth shut either. I hope I made her feel stupid with my response.

She seemed to be checking all the cars for permits and she then sort of rudely asked me if I had one. I replied, "Yes I do." She gave me a look of disapproval or disbelief, I don't remember what she said after that. I continued with, "I have multiple sclerosis. That's why I have a permit."
Then she seemed to be trying to remove her foot from her mouth, because her response was, "oh that's good. I mean it's not good that you need one, but it's good that you have it."

I wish I had said, "Yeah I feel pretty crappy that I need that. Thanks for drawing attention to it and making me feel worse! Have a nice day!" I was to dumbfounded to be clever, I guess. I think in my head I was flipping her the bird.

[RedFlame]

I have a really hard time keeping my mouth shut too.  There have been a couple of people who thought I was drunk and then others who just stare.  I have really wanted to have a sign on my walker something to the effect that "I have MS stupid".  So far I have been quiet.  

I get the most stares when I don't need the walker.

There have been times that I was angry that someone parked in handicapped without a license or tag.  The only time I said anything the person had just forgotten to hang hers.

I have a license plate on my car so I never forget.

Don't let anyone push you around!!!

hugs,   Red

[doublevision1]

I love Lulu's response.   If I ever find myself in such a situation, I hope I remember it!

[grannyhotwheels]

All of this is really good advice... I wish I was one of those kind of people that could keep my mouth shut and just keep walking but hmm, that's far from who I am...lol... I just have this strange urge to have the final say.... Ask my husband and he will gladly  agree...

I've never had anyone comment on my placard but it's obvious by looking at me that I'm disabled... I have seen and heard others comment about it.... I just tell them to never judge others until you walk in their shoes awhile...

I don't know if anyone else does this but I catch myself checking for the handicap placards or handicap license plates in the parking lots... It really upsets me when I see a car parked without one...I just want to wait on them to come out and ask them if they where saving that space for me...lol

I would really feel bad if they had just forgotten to hang it up though... I guess I had better behave myself...

Prayers to all,
Carol

[beema36]

If they tell me I don't look handicapped or sick, I smile sweetly and say "Oh thank you. That's so sweet of you to tell me that." And I keep walking. Sure shuts them up at least for a minute.:)
Beema

[Lulu54]

the best response I have heard was "I'll give you my parking permit if you will take my MS."  S's advice is good, too.  But it is just human nature to want to respond.

I sure hope we aren't seeing a new trend in people badgering folks with the hidden disabilities.  Alex had someone approach her about Polly recently - quesitoning if she really needs a service dog.

Keep using that placard as you need it and ignore the ignorant folks that might question you.  

[Sumanadevii]

That should be "on" them not one THEM....Oh for an edit button.!!!!

[Sumanadevii]

I think the best answer is none.  Look right past her and continue walking.  Ignore is one of the best ways to put someone in their place.  It works for any rude remarks.  It irks them even more and puts the burden right square back where it belongs...one THEM.