..................... because I expect you are a decent person who suffers from a debilitating, serious, incurable disease and you get on with it through all your pain and do not generally like to make a fuss. You were right to speak up and your "colleague" who apologised by email is a coward.

If only we could give people like this one day in our bodies, I am sure there would be a complete turn around in the attitude of ignorant people.

Now I am mad on your behalf.

Take care

Jackie
xx

Hi,
Just want to say how brave you and Rose are for wearing them at work, I have been too much of a coward to do this yet, but have to get people to open doors for me when thumbs are bad. One of the reasons for not wearing them is the questions it can provoke from others. I don't think people realise how difficult it is to actually wear them and therefore admit to yourself that you need them. Also it is very difficult to complain and the feelings that go with it, but if it makes this person think twice before making upsetting comments to others, it will be worth it. The fact that she cannot face you I think says it all, she is probably ashamed, as she should be.
Take care
Candy

I too wear my wrist splints at work to minimise pain, help me to achieve things and prevent joint damage. At first I was self conscious but now I almost forget about them. I have not had any negative comments about my splints but did suffer repeated negative comments from one colleague when I had to use a stick and I was really upset. I think it's good that you reported this issue and it is a shame that she did not apologise face to face. It does suggest though that she has considered her actions and knows that she is in the wrong but just doesn't have the courage to actually admit this to you in person. You should not feel guilty in the slightest. Negative comments about someone's disability are an offensive and hurtful form of bullying and they need to be challenged and reported. I reported the comments about my stick to my boss and the culprit was dealt with. They didn't apologise even by email but the comments did stop immediately. I was so relieved as the situation was making my work life so miserable that I could hardly face going in. So all I can say is I understand how you feel about this and well done for speaking up. Naomi x

Well, I am very lucky. I guess it is because our staff are trained in diversity & equality - this is mandatory. When wearing my splints, RA gloves etc. I normally get shown concern and asked if my hands are playing up again. Normally followed by a wish that I get some relief soon.

It's such a shame that not all people are informed about diversity & equality but you have played your part. If you hadn't done anything that would have seemed that you had accepted that the comment was OK. By challenging it, you have informed at least 2 people (probably more) that you do not find it acceptable behaviour to make derogatory comments to people using disability aids or in pain.

Well done you, you have done lots of people a good deed.

Angie

hi, try not to feel you are the guilty one here,i wore splints to work and at that time they were skin pink(horrible) and not so noticed but then they changed to a lovely BLUE, i got the kick boxing comments and the rest i took it to my then boss who was the best man ever and he dealt with it asap,got face to face appologies must admit was good, he did however make me a name badge with i "i have a companion at work he is called ARTHUR ITIS" under my name it worked a treat i got no probs after that, also i too made my splints into fancy arm wear,dont hide away why should you, i hope that person has the guts in future to speak to you when the embarrasment dies down,bet she will,sending a cuddle,dorothy