SMA Logistics around dating
I’m in India which means I live with poor healthcare and accessibility. I was diagnosed with type 2 SMA 22 years ago and I work as a developer in a major tech corporation now.
I recently met someone online and I have been going out with him for some time, but for every date we must meet in a mall or sth since most restaurants here are inaccessible. Also I can’t invite him over to my place yet since we met online and we don’t have trust and intimacy yet. I like him but I worry he’d break up with me for the logistics around me being too much. Anyone dealing with a similar situation?
Yeah this is a constant worry of mine too. You just never know if the other person is going to accept your level of physical ability. My advice is to try think of things that could be fun that you are able to do and do those things. It’s difficult since options are limited, yes. But don’t put yourself in situations where you feel you need to "pretend" to be less disabled than you are. The reality is that if they can’t accept you for who you are, then they aren’t for you. And that’s okay! That’s how it works for abled-body people too. That said, if they’ve already met you and haven’t bailed yet, maybe you don’t need to worry as much. 😀
This is what I have to remind myself every time I talk to someone on a dating app or go on a date—I just have to be me and if they can’t deal, then that’s okay, on to the next one. Easier said than done lol. Good luck out there!Thanks for the good advice! Good luck out there for you, too! All the best, Kathy (Team member)
Hi
i'm sure members of the spinalmuscularatrophy.net community will offer their advice, as your concerns about dating are very common in our community. In the meantime, I'm going to share some articles written by our health leaders about their experiences and tips for navigating the dating scene:
5 Tips for Dating with a Disability
Best Date Ideas for Interabled Couples
Tips on Dating with a Disability
Perhaps these can be of use to you and your boyfriend. (As you navigate the site, you'll also find articles about caring for a partner with SMA and even about wedding dress shopping in a wheelchair.) I hope your relationship grows to be the one you've always dreamed of! 💐❤️ 🥂 All the best, Kathy (Team member)
