At ToJ, we understand that accessibility isn't a binary of 'accessible' or 'not accessible.' Even our carefully considered ToJ Ratings may not fully capture the complexity of individual experiences. While our ratings are designed with the broadest span of wheelchair users in mind, factors like your specific disability and the type of wheelchair you use can further impact your experience.
We've known one of our friends to push her manual chair around New York City, hop out onto the ground at an inaccessible subway station, scoot down the stairs on her rear—dragging her chair with her—then climb back on before launching herself onto a train. We might rate that adventure a 1 for accessibility verging on dangerous for most wheelchair users, but who are we to say don't do it?
To all the Paralympians, wheelchair users in developing countries, and those doing acrobatics each day just to get by in life, we salute you. And for those of us who may be a little more conservative where we're at in life, we hope our ratings provide some balanced guidance!
