hi potsie! i recently started using walking sticks and i'm already sick of people asking "oh my god what happened?" because nothing really Happened, my legs are just Bad and i'm always low on energy and stamina! but that takes too long to explain in passing, do you have any advice on what i could say to people instead?
Hey there, @maknaebias!
Unfortunately, this is a very common issue anyone who uses a mobility aid faces. For some reason, it seems to be socially acceptable to ask for a person’s complete medical history as soon as they start using a mobility aid?? I can’t tell you why, and I can’t even tell you how to properly respond in every situation, because there’s no “right” answer.
BUT I can reassure you that you don’t owe people an explanation. If they’re a total stranger, you have a right to just not answer. It’s really not any of their business anyway! If it’s an acquaintance who sees you out and about, you can simply say, “Nothing happened--these just help me get around better. Have a nice day!” and continue on with your day.
Whatever the situation, I lean towards kindness, because the world needs more kindness in it. But you can be kind without giving a full explanation to everyone who asks, because it really isn’t their business. You control how much you tell them in that situation--if you feel like educating them about your condition, go for it! But if you just want to get on with your day, then remember you don’t owe them an explanation.
I hope this is helpful!
