23/08/2025
Please be advised!
Those of us navigating life with diverse abilities adapt and thrive in our environment, just like the octopus 🐙.
Please don’t assume that a person with a disability needs help. If you feel the urge to assist, ask first before stepping in.
Many of us living with disabilities or differences have developed our own ways of navigating the world. Some of us may use mobility aids, assistive devices, or adaptive technology; others may rely on alternative techniques or methods to accomplish daily tasks. However we do things, this is our normal.
If you’re curious, ask us directly, not the people we’re with. That’s how you’ll get accurate, respectful information. Each person is unique, and so are our abilities.
If you offer assistance and it’s declined, please don’t take offense. We know you mean well but, not everyone wants or heeds help. A “no” now doesn’t mean it won’t be appreciated another time.
If your offer is accepted, the next thing you should ask is:
“How can I best help?”
No two people do things the same way. Those of us living with the disability knows what will work best for us. Follow our lead.
Here’s one simple thing you can do that promotes dignity and inclusion:
Just say “hello.”
A friendly greeting shows that you see the person not just our disability and that you’re treating us like anyone else.
A “hello” also gives us the chance to ask for help if we need it, without assuming that we do. For those of us who are blind or have low vision, a verbal “hello” serves as that smile, nod, or friendly gesture we miss out on, visually.
People with diverse abilities or disabilities are, first and foremost, people who just navigate life different because our bodies or brain work differently.
“Having a disability does not change who we are, it changes our interactions with the world.”
’m Gina. Every day, I get to turn my lived experience into practical tools that help kids and communities understand accessibility in real life. That’s what Youth aDAPT is all about. When you send stars, you’re part of making that happen.
🌐 www.DiverseAbilities.ca
Photo description.
Gina is walking on the beach with her white cane in one hand and holding an octopus kite in her other. This kite is is Mr. Squiggly. He is a purple octoopus with 10 feet long tentacles.
