DISABLITY AND DEFENSE: BEING MORE VULNERABLE THAN I EVER HAVE BEEN

I can scream and bite but really cannot fight physically anymore. I was already overpowered easily several times before because of my size, but now I am even more vulnerable than I ever have been. When I have a seizure, paralysis, or pass out, I am completely at the mercy of what anyone wants to do with me...and I hate that. As a major abuse and trauma survivor, it really hits home. Something we do not hear much about is how disabled people need more protection and safety, and often can continue to be victims because of being easy targets. Now I am forced to rely on the hope of others stepping in and protecting me if something happens, and thankfully, it already did with several women around me, one being a complete stranger who stayed by my side I later found out until the first responders came. I hope that in the future there continue to be kind and amazing people who happen to be around. All I can do is be prepared the best I can.

- RKD

03-10-25