Talking about invisible disabilities and Moebius syndrome sounds kind of weird at first, as we talk so much about the visible disability part of it… but on an everyday basis, I almost think the invisible disabilities I have due to Moebius are more problematic.
Today I went to a crowded Trader Joe’s… and didn’t hit anyone with my cart. And that, sadly enough, is an accomplishment with my vision! Getting on a crowded bus… I rush for the first seat because I cannot stay balanced. I have chronic foot and leg pain. Sometimes I use a disability placard when I need to. But looking at me… you wouldn’t see those things. You may see someone with a unique-looking face… but nothing else is obvious.
And for some reason, I am uncomfortable asserting myself in situations that involve the invisible parts of Moebius syndrome. I worry about taking an accessible spot. I don’t ask for a seat on the bus when they are full. I struggle with how to balance my needs as a person with several impairments that aren’t particularly visible at first glance.
Maybe someday I’ll come up with a snappy way to assert myself. But until then, I muddle along and try my best to get by.
Natalie Abbott 