Last April marked a significant milestone for an individual who turned 60, reflecting on a life of challenges and triumphs. At just four months old, they contracted polio, resulting in lifelong physical disabilities and necessitating the use of a wheelchair.
Despite growing up feeling no different from other children, societal perceptions labeled them as “special,” requiring “special care.” Their parents faced difficulties enrolling them in primary school due to claims that their needs could not be met without a personal assistant. However, their parents disagreed with this notion and instead found accessible schools where classmates provided support during activities.
Upon entering college, the need for a personal assistant became apparent to ensure equal access to education and life opportunities. The search for suitable assistants was challenging; initial hires from nursing agencies often treated them as patients rather than individuals with disabilities. This misunderstanding impacted their psychological well-being.
The journey included negative experiences with personal assistants who breached trust or failed to respect boundaries. Some assistants took personal belongings or used diminutives like “Carlitos” instead of addressing them formally as “Mr. Ríos.”
The narrative emphasizes the importance of people with disabilities understanding their rights and managing their support systems independently. Countries like the US and Sweden have centers for independent living that provide referrals and training for both people with disabilities and personal assistants.
Access to quality personal assistant services remains financially burdensome for many in Mexico, where families often bear the responsibility of care, leading to potential burnout or mistreatment. Advocates argue that states should view high-quality care as essential social protection.
In Latin America, discussions on support systems are ongoing, with organizations like Mexicanas con Discapacidad and Yo También advocating for frameworks that include all types of disabilities. These organizations emphasize the need for inclusive legislative measures allowing people with disabilities to live independently and with dignity.
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