Annie’s Mailbox: Save end stall for handicapped users

Dear Annie: In the course of one day, a spinal cord injury caused me to go from a very active young woman to a paraplegic. Because of my injury, I finally know the “rules” for that handicapped stall in public restrooms, and want others to know, as well.

I used to wonder if it was like the handicapped parking space that able-bodied people aren’t supposed to use for any reason. Before my injury, I didn’t think twice about using the handicapped stall if no one there needed it and the others were taken. In fact, I’d use it even when other stalls were available, simply because it was so spacious.

So let me tell you, yes, it is to be treated just like a handicapped parking space and should be reserved solely for those who need it, even if every other stall is occupied. Because my nervous system is damaged, I don’t have a lot of time between when I recognize the need to go and actually going. And since I now move very slowly, every second counts. My legs are extremely weak and I really need the grab bars in the handicapped stall. In emergencies, I’ve had to use regular stalls and have twice pulled the toilet paper holder off the wall though I weigh only 115 pounds. I am counting on that handicapped stall being empty when I get to the restroom.

Not everyone who needs that stall is as obvious as I am. Just because no ticket is issued when an able-bodied person uses the handicapped stall, please don’t do it. It’s a matter of consideration. – Learned the Hard Way

Dear Learned: We agree, but we would make an exception for those who are about to wet their pants, there are no other available stalls, there is no disabled person in sight, and they will be really quick about it.