Hi,
I totally agree that persons with disabilities can do anything. I have a masters degree and a full-time job. In 20 years, I became incapacitated once but that does not mean living with an illness that I did not cause is easy. Some may use an illness as a crutch, some may truly be incapacitated a lot of the time and some may be in the early stages of their illness and acceptance can take time. I have met some wonderful people with chronic mental illnesses who have high IQ's, are artistic, educated, employed, in healthy relations and have loving and supportive families, friends and communities.
I have also met wonderful people who are so ill that it consumes them. As a consumer and an employee I am able to see both sides and I still believe unconditional love and acceptance are important components in the recovery process.
It makes a big difference to know one is loved and accepted regardless of a diagnosis. I have witnessed how powerful it can be but I also know it can be draining. I am one woman with one outlook from the inside and outside but I am so happy my post has generated discussion because it is a wonderful way for all of us to become more aware of others experiences and thoughts.
Thank you so much for your post....Rox

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