Sheldon

Please share about yourself, your experience with the Disability Assistance Benefit, and anything else you would like people to know.

I live in the downtown Eastside. I do not work because of my health conditions. I would like people to know that not all disabilities are visible as in you can’t see all disabilities including many mental health disabilities that lots of people struggle daily with. It is hard. Very hard to have some of these conditions.

I definitely do not have enough to live a normal life and even support my basic needs. Independence is nearly impossible as most people on disability benefits have to rely on food banks, rent banks, and other ways such as begging family for help. I have even had many times where I’ve had to panhandle and beg for money in the streets. Food costs are rising. Clothes are getting more expensive. But disability benefits stay the same or are even reduced sometimes. Medical care is hard because no dentist wants to accept patients with just disability insurance. Same goes for eye doctors. I also cannot access certain recovery programs for my illnesses because the government will not cover them

People with disabilities are human. Just like you. It only takes one accident, illness, or mental health issue to cause you to be disabled. I pray that disability is increased to at least reach the poverty line plus more access to medical treatments that can change a person’s life.

What do you dream support for people with disabilities could look like?

A disability payment equal or larger than the poverty line for sure. Better access to medical services and mobility aids and counselling, treatment programs, dietary supplements that have a more open application process not just denied all the time. A government that has a disability strategy not just talks about it to get votes then does nothing. A chance at equality.

Likes/ Loves:

I like the color blue and green. I love playing on my smartphone or watching tv. I love nature and the sea going to beaches. I’m a pretty simple guy.