Not too long ago, my friend and I were at a red light and the car next to us rolled down their window, motioning us to do the same. The driver, close in age, said I have the most beautiful eyes- Honestly he probably didn’t even see my eyes lol. My friend and I were laughing afterwards for his effort in getting my attention.

I’ve gotten compliments from many, many strangers before, but this one was different. I was not seen in a wheelchair so it felt good to be (even if it was for a minute) as just the girl with pretty eyes.

I hate admitting it, but we all know I’m super honest… I sometimes feel like I have to figure out who sees me as more than just disabled/ a wheelchair-user or not, and that is (unfortunately) not just with strangers.

People will compliment me, and I love and appreciate all of it, but in some cases it seems as if it is because of my disability- an effort to make my day or give me a lil confidence booster. It just feels good to be noticed without the constant reminder of it having to do with FA or not. And I know this is not everyone, but this puzzle continues to solve itself in the back of my mind.

I just think to myself, what if in all of these scenarios, I was walking? Would that person still stop me on the street to tell me I’m gorgeous? Or message me to tell me I’m beautiful “inside and out”  when they barely know me, or better yet, never met me before? 

I know these compliments are genuine (trust me, I know), but can you really say I would be getting the same exact treatment without a disability?

I have people in my life who look past my wheels, and I love them for that. To them and to myself: I know I’m not Adriana, the girl with FA or in the wheelchair, I’m Adriana, described as what I actually am- kind, beautiful, smart, funny, maybe a little cocky lol…okay you get it. I just hope others see me in this different light as well. 🙂

It’s great when I get a compliment, but it means even more to me when someone genuinely looks beyond my disability or wheelchair. I know not everyone will, but I want to continue to show people who I am. Not just for them, but for myself.