Opinion

Letter: Not all disabilities are visible

Posted December 22, 2022 12:00 am

In response to Rich Purmann's regarding handicap placards on Dec. 19: Many years ago I took deaf education classes at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf in Rochester, New York. One night I was parking my car before class when I saw a man park in a handicapped space with no visible permit allowing him to do so. I stopped to question him.

As he turned around, I realized he was one of my professors. I asked him if he realized he was in a permit-only spot. He then proceeded to let me know that not all handicaps are visible. He was aware of where he parked and shared the reason why with me. Heart and lung conditions can limit a person's ability to walk long distances. I have remembered this encounter for nearly 50 years.

Mr. Purmann described a person he observed as being in a wheelchair and legless. There are many other definitions for all sorts of different abilities. Please be aware of where you park and do not abuse handicapped spots. They are necessary for those who need them.

By the way, I received an "A" from my professor that semester.

Cheri Klumpp

Wheeling

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