Most people think they know all about disability and/or chronic illness even though they don’t know anyone living with one.  There are some really goofy stereotypes that for some reason are widely accepted as truth.  One by one, I want us to discuss and squash each one.  Let’s start with Bad Cripple.  I’m sure you’ve heard all about him.  He isn’t REALLY disabled. He just puts on a big show so he can screw the government by getting Social Security, park in good parking spots, and get pity off of poor unsuspecting saps.  He also messes up the public schools by demanding special ed services for disabled (learning or otherwise) children which takes money away from AB kids.  No wonder schools can’t afford books or supplies.   Bad Cripple is killing the American dream too by reporting businesses that aren’t ADA compliant.   Who cares if it’s the law? Why should a business owner have to pay for a wheelchair ramp? Let Bad Cripple go somewhere else.  Sounds familiar, right?   No one has ever met Bad Cripple, but like any urban legend if it’s a friend of a friend then it must be true.  But think about it — why would anyone want to be Bad Cripple?  Of course there are con artists out there that swindle people out of money but is there really a good enough pay out for Bad Cripple?   Most people with disabilities live in poverty.   Applying for social security is a long and embarrassing process.  It usually takes 2 years to be awarded and during that time every doctor’s visit, hospital stay and prescribion is reviewed by social security.   In order to be awarded Bad Cripple has to convince not only his doctors but also countless social security representatives and a judge!  All this for a few hundred bucks a month.  Wouldn’t it just be simpler(and more profitable) to buddy up to a rich old person?  And as far as Bad Cripple screwing over schools and small businesses,  this isn’t someone throwing a fit, it’s the law.  Every child should receive an education.   Yes, it’s expensive but it doesn’t have to take money away from general ed programs.   Like any government agency, school will always complain about a lack of funds.  And yes, there have been lawsuits about ADA compliance.   Do you know what Bad Cripple won?  Wheelchair ramps.  Not exactly a windfall is it?

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