Image is Not a Definition

The last 18 years has taught me that…  Image is not a definition.

Growing up, my dad has always told me and my sister different things to try to mold us into the people we are today. One of those things is respect. Over the years he told us to do things that showed people respect; things such as not interrupting people, looking them in the eyes, active listening, and showing no judgement towards whatever condition the person is in. My dad has been in a wheelchair since I was three years old, but when I look at him, I don’t see a man sitting in a chair, I see my dad.

I am currently in my final year of nursing school to become an RN. I have worked in the healthcare field for two years now as a CNA and LPN. One thing I have learned for certain is that people come in all sorts of conditions, but their image remains free of judgement. I have noticed a difference between myself and some of my peers; I am not afraid to talk to someone who is in a different condition than I am. Not only that, but I can show them compassion and love, giving them respect and dignity. I am grateful for the way I was raised. My generation has a lack of respect for others, which is something I possess.

I don’t see people for their outward appearances. I don’t alter how I act towards someone because of their conditions. I give people the respect they deserve no matter what their image may be. A defining condition or image does not include a diagnosis. What defines a person is who they are on the inside. A diagnosis of quadriplegia with the image of a wheelchair does not define my dad, but rather allowed him to raise his daughters and be part of their life. It is more of a blessing than anything.

Kristen

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