Top 10 Things Not to Say to Someone in a Wheelchair plus The Best Responses from Wheelchair Users

We had such a great response to a post last week of The Huffington Post’s “Top 10 Things You Do Not Say To Someone In A Wheelchair,” we decided to come up with our own top 10 and, for a twist, 10 witty responses. Enjoy!

1. You’re an inspiration!
   Response: “You’re easily inspired.”
    
2. You’re husband or wife must be a saint for taking care of you.
   Response: “Yea, this whole for better or worse thing is really working out for me.”
    
3. It’s so great to see you out doing things!
   Response: “It’s great to be out. Please take me with you before they find me and bring me back to the hospital.”
    
4. I broke my leg. I know exactly what it feels like to be in a wheelchair.
   Response: “The bowel program is the worst, right?”
    
5. I was only parked there for a minute (in reference to an able-bodied person parked in a handicapped spot).
   Response: “Really, because I’ve been waiting for 10 minutes.”
    
6. Do you race in your chair?You’re going too fast.
   Response: “I was trying to get away from you.”
    
7. There’s a special place in heaven for you.
   Response: “Doubt it if there’s a stairway to get there.”
    
8. Since you’re in a wheelchair, you can’t have sex, right?
   Response: “Well, not with you.”
    
9. You look pretty normal for someone in a wheelchair.
   Response: “I used to be too good looking so I thought this wheelchair would help.”
    
10. You seem very happy!
    Response: “I saved a bundle on my car insurance!”

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