Since having a stroke over a year ago, I am now able to see invisible people. No, this doesn’t make me a medium and no, it isn’t my new glasses from LensCrafters. Let me explain.
Each week, I have three or more rehabilitation appointments. Since I haven’t been cleared to drive, I don’t want to have to lean on others to get to my destination. Instead, I utilize a ride-share service offered by TriMet for folks who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids.
I’ve heard it said that this segment of the population is largely “invisible,” as very few people will acknowledge, make eye contact, or even speak a single word to them.
I am sure you’ve seen us out and about. We are in a white, blue, and yellow “short bus” that covers the Portland Metro. The windows have been tinted to block the view of what’s inside, so allow me to paint a picture.
On any given trip, there are 3-5 of us in the van and I’m usually the most well off, or so it seems to me. There are people who drool, slap, and talk to themselves. I’m guessing that most of these individuals have dealt with their mental and/or physical conditions their whole lives. Hopefully, mine is just temporary. Regardless, we are in this together!
I try to engage whenever possible. I like to say hello, ask where they’re going, or wish them a good day. When this happens, the reaction is priceless. First of all, they seem shocked. Secondly, they light up and appear to come back to life. It reminds me how much we all need basic human connection.
It’s unfortunate that it took a major stroke to realize that these people were invisible for the first 50 years of my life. Our interactions have meant more to me than they will ever know.