We are often the main attraction in a new place. Our son is like the little fish, Nemo. He has one fin (right forearm) shorter than the other. It’s not uncommon for us to be swarmed by a new group of kids. After seven years we have become accustomed to the pointing, the touching, the staring and the often hurtful remarks.
Related: 8 Ways to be a Great Advocate For Your Family Member With Special Needs [1]
You see we are not looking for sympathy. We only wish for understanding.
I must confess that I love living in a small town. People are used to seeing us. We are grateful for our son’s school and the support staff. They all have embraced him. He even has a few friends that act like body guards. They protect him.
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[3]When we leave the comfort of familiarity, my husband and I arm ourselves with several different tactics. One of our favorites is to remind inquisitors of the Disney story, “Finding Nemo.” The sight of a disability makes people uncomfortable. Being able to “Disney-fi” my son’s difference helps people relax a little and open their mind a bit.
We love the parable of “Finding Nemo.” It reminds everyone that we are only limited by what we think we cannot achieve. Little Nemo does not let having one fin shorter than the other limit his ability to overcome great obstacles.
My husband uses the story to remind me not to be a “Marlin.” Marlin is Nemo’s overprotective father. Marlin’s ways drive his son to take an unnecessary risk. This of course “nets” Nemo into a compromising situation.
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Like the story, we too are often surprised to find comfort in the most unlikely of friends. I think the true lesson for all of us, is to open our minds. Teach our children that people come in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Disabilities can be visible. However, often the most crippling are those that cannot be seen. Like the little fish, we are capable of achieving greatness, if we only believe.
Related: The Disney Disability Pass: The Not so Mickey Mouse Approach to Enjoying the Parks [5]
This post originally appeared on our September/October 2010 Magazine [6]