Have I ever told you how I came out...

As a person with a disability??

The coming out process for someone with a disability is its own very unique experience that we don't talk about enough. And it is so real.

When I started using my cane, I cried the first five, six, or seven times; it was my official “coming out”. I was no longer someone who was seen and perceived as fully able-bodied, but rather, as not able.

It's interesting that we often base our self-worth on the perceptions of others, which makes the idea of being seen as "different" so overwhelming.

I decided that the only way I was ever going to be comfortable with being “out” in the world as a person with a disability was if I started treating using my cane and being open about my disability like it was a challenge. I have always loved being challenged — I rode my bike 600 miles from SF to LA, swam from Alcatraz to shore, summited Mt Kilimanjaro, and competed in extreme athlete races — but this was not a challenge I ever would have chosen for myself…which is exactly why I needed to take it on.

The more I challenged myself to use my cane and speak my needs, the more comfortable and confident I felt in my own skin. When I allowed myself to face my fears of how other people would perceive me as a person with a disability, my world changed.

I experienced a new-found kindness and acceptance both with strangers and myself. My confidence skyrocketed as I navigated my new world safely and with the tools that I steered away from for so long.

Every person with a disability has their own “coming out” story. If you're ready, I would love for you to share yours with us in the comments. ??