United From A Distance – From Where I Sit

Kathy Bates, a teacher, advocate, and writer, March 28, 2020
I just want to share some things that have been on my mind lately. I find it ironic that it takes a pandemic like a coronavirus (COVID-19) for everyone to start thinking about some of the issues that people with disabilities have been struggling with their whole lives. The feelings of social isolation or complete loneliness, the need for assistive technology that works well for them, accommodations and generally the need for more flexibility in the workplace are all common problems for many people with disabilities. Social isolation may not be easy, but if you are stuck at home with the ones you love most in the world it could be a good thing. I think it’s important to take this time to reconnect with each other while everything has slowed down a little. Processing and communication take a little bit longer for some people. In a way, the world has come to a standstill, so use this time to connect with the people that live in your house. This pandemic will end, and everyone will go back to their lives but, for many people with disabilities, isolation and profound loneliness are a part of everyday life but it doesn’t have to be that way. A crisis like the Coronavirus can bring out the best in people. I am very thankful for my amazing family and everyone who supports me.