Deep thoughts

I really loved Jack Handey on Saturday Night Live. Some things they mentioned on that segment of the show were delightfully sarcastic.

While some of you might say the same thing about two things I'll address below, I'm going to say them. Because someone needs to mention them. Because my patients mention them.

So sit down and listen, please.

First, I enjoy getting my regular copy of the American Journal of Nursing every month. Since I subscribe to the newsletter, too, I also get a copy of the electronic table of contents. I saw this listed in the TOC and just about blew a gasket. Why you ask?

Because we have a whole lot more idiots, or shall we say "free spirits" out in the world who are so nervous they have to make fun of things they don't like or understand. Since I am not allowed to discuss politics in my home, I won't even discuss a certain political candidate who has endeared himself to the physically challenged, prisoners of war (also military veterans) and something I can identify with: women.

The point: Nurse researchers, please get with the program. While my folks may use safety belts, I have yet to see any "bound" to a wheelchair. If you are so up-to-date, please use modern terminology, please. Wheelchair user would do just fine in your article.

Finally, never assume. Wheelchair users most likely are not deaf, nor stupid. Treat them the way you'd want to be treated. In the fine words of one of my friends with multiple sclerosis (who celebrated World MS Day this past week), "I have MS, but it doesn't have me!"

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