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Voice of the people

December 12, 2012 @ 12:00 AM

Letter writer sorry if she was insensitive

In reply to the gentleman's letter in the Nov. 24 edition, please believe that I meant no disrespect to those who have disabilities that cannot readily be seen. I sincerely apologize to anyone I may have offended.

My mother was disabled and, to a stranger, it was difficult to detect until her later years. After strangers made comments or gestures as we left our car, a friend made a frame for our license plate depicting a disabled person. I would always pull into the space.

I had written my letter as a show of support to one that had recently appeared in The Herald-Dispatch. Evidently, my choice of wording was inadequate. I was also frustrated, as I had taken the time to get out in the rain and note the license plate number, but learned later that nothing could be done.

I am aware of individuals who have ordered placards through brochures, but there again, I do not know their situation and, as the writer pointed out, should not judge them.

As I'm certain the gentleman knows, getting Social Security Disability is a difficult task, as it should be. You see, I too am on Social Security Disability due to frequent debilitating migraine headaches which can strike at any time. I have never applied for a handicap placard as I feel that my disability does not qualify. That is only MY opinion. There are those with the same disability who do use them. If someone has a migraine, there is no way they could safely operate a vehicle, therefore we have to call for help. Being parked in the handicap area is a great help for those trying to locate us. I certainly understand their reasoning.

Again, I apologize if my letter seemed so insensitive it offended.

Donna M. Day

Prichard