Why one Instagram post highlights a problem wheelchair travellers face every day, and why we must demand better.
A recent Instagram post shared by an occupational therapist perfectly captures a reality that far too many wheelchair users experience when they travel.
The post, which you can view here:
👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DMMGUDxM-8p/
includes a powerful and confronting message:
“Sadly, Stuart’s story isn’t unique. I’ve seen it over and over again as an OT: expensive custom chairs tossed around like cheap luggage.”
That single sentence exposes a widespread failure in how mobility equipment is treated within the travel industry.
THIS ISN’T ABOUT BAGS, IT’S ABOUT INDEPENDENCE
For wheelchair users, a wheelchair is not optional equipment.
It is medically essential, individually fitted, and fundamental to daily life.
Custom wheelchairs:
- Support posture, pressure management, and long-term health
- Reduce pain, fatigue, and secondary injuries
- Enable independence, dignity, and freedom
Many cost tens of thousands of dollars, yet when we travel, they’re still too often treated as standard baggage.
THIS ISN’T UNIQUE” IS THE REAL PROBLEM
When an occupational therapist says they’ve seen this happen over and over again, it confirms what wheelchair users have been saying for years.
Wheelchair damage during travel is:
- Common
- Largely preventable
- Deeply harmful
What’s missing is consistent training, accountability, and recognition that a wheelchair is an extension of the person who uses it, not something replaceable.
WHY SHARING THIS INSTAGRAM POST MATTERS
Posts like this do more than tell a story.
They:
- Validate lived experience
- Educate people outside the disability community
- Apply pressure where it’s needed, on airlines, airports, and handlers
This isn’t about special treatment.
It’s about basic respect, care, and responsibility.
WE DESERVE BETTER
Wheelchair users deserve to travel without fear that the equipment we rely on will be mishandled or broken.
We deserve:
- Properly trained staff
- Respectful handling of mobility equipment
- Accountability when damage occurs
Most of all, we deserve to be listened to.
spread THE LOVE!
If this resonates with you, I encourage you to watch and share the Instagram post here:
👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DMMGUDxM-8p/
Awareness leads to change.
And change starts with stories like this.
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