'Disability'

I'm struggling with labels.


I've been fighting for support for Eva.  Part of that fight tends to include getting and eliminating labels.  First it was autism.  That was eliminated.  I was told that her symptoms were the 'opposite of autism' in many ways.  As if autism isn't confusing, what is the opposite of it?!  Most recently, the label of 'sensory processing disorder' has been briefly mentioned.  I've been okay with it.  Labels can be devastating for many children but at this point, I haven't felt that Eva has understand the negative of labels and has only benefited from their good.... she has received ongoing PT and OT therapy because of the evaluation scores that bring the conclusion that these labels fit.


But yesterday, Rene said 'disability'.  I felt like the air was knocked out of me.  'We don't know what kind of DISABILITY she (Eva) may have,' was what he was saying.  As he spoke of supporting families with children with disabilities in our church, that word rang through my head.  DIS-ABILITY.  It tasted ugly as I repeated it.