Shocked at the insensitiveness of salesperson towards disabled

I have a colleague that is in a wheelchair after a motor accident. Believe me this young woman is an inspiration to all of us at work. Nothing, but nothing, gets her down but people get me down for the way they treat her and other disabled people.

A week or so ago her wheelchair got a flat wheel which needed repairing by professionals. When she purchased her wheelchair they advised her that whenever necessary she can take the wheelchair to any bicycle repair shop, who will be able to help her.

So off to the popular uncle in the bicycle business we went, just to hear that we can return after about two-and-a-half hours due to customers being before us that needed to have their bicycles repaired too.

When I phoned the shop to ask if they can’t make a plan, she told me that the customers before the wheelchair had to be helped first. Upon this I asked if a wheelchair should not be a priority, as the person using it is dependent on it and I am sure that the customers with the bicycles would understand.

I also asked her what we would do if she needs to get to the ladies room as she needs the wheelchair and then to my shock she advised me to give her a bucket to use. Goodness! She took my breath away. This girl has a lot to deal with, least of all insensitive people like this woman. Would you use a bucket in the front office of your business, in front of all staff and customers? No, I didn’t think so.

The wheelchair was repaired in a much shorter time than was anticipated and I thank her for that, but we were advised to take the wheelchair to a certain place for repairs in future. Rest assured lady, we will, we will and remember the power of word of mouth.
Disabled people have much to deal with, much, much more than we lucky people can ever think.

So, being an owner/worker at a company, please keep this in mind and help where you can.