What Are You Doing in that Wheelchair?

I've mentioned this before, but it's worth repeating - in most cases, why a person is using a mobility aid isn't really your business. If it's your direct relative, spouse, or best friend, it's probably safe to ask. If it's someone you know casually, please just don't ask.

I think that what most people mean is something along the lines of, "Are you ok? Are you going to be ok?" But what tends to come across is, "I want to know your personal medical information and possible trauma." If you do ask someone why they're using a mobility aid and they try to avoid the question, let them. Asking again will make you both uncomfortable.

While I'm almost always happy to answer questions about M.E., I don't always want to field questions from people who don't already know why I'm using a mobility aid. A brief, "I hope you're doing ok" is lovely and appreciated. "What are you doing in that wheelchair?" will probably get one of the following answers:

• Surviving

• Sitting

• My broom is in the shop