'Disability as identity' - discussion thread

[DokaGirl]

People remain connected when they do activities with other people, including parties and other events. When we do not show up, time after time, that connection is lost. They do not remain connected to people they do not see. There is misunderstanding for sure, but in my experience mostly its that we are seen as withdrawing from their little community of friends, and even the community of relatives.

Agreed. We may be seen as withdrawing, but I would say we are withdrawn. Withdrawn by ME. There of course, is in some cases the decision to withdraw, to save one's energy. But sometimes a pwME is too sick to even consider going out and engaging with others.

ME: free will versus determinism.

ME has been defined by some as a lifestyle choice, while in reality ME forces significant life changes upon us.