Dear Editor:
I'm appealing to those few people who think it's OK to park in a disabled parking space even though they are able-bodied and don't have a disability permit.
In most shopping centres, malls etc., there are very few disabled spaces.
As our population ages, plans are afoot to request that this be changed and the ratio of disabled spaces to the total parking spaces be increased.
However I would like people to keep in mind that we are not disabled by choice.
For the majority of us, every trip out involves a lot of pain and all our strength to get through it.
A lso unfortunate but sadly true, the disability permit system is being abused by a small minority in the following ways: Expired permits are still being used - each permit has a clear expiry date shown.
Another rule of these permits is that the disabled person must be present with the vehicle.
Family or friends are not allowed to use the permit when the disabled person is not with them.
Each permit has a registration number clearly printed on it, so identification of any offenders is easy and unfortunately at this time, is the only solution to these problems.
T he company that regulates this program is aware of these issues and changes to the program are expected to be made.
Just consider: One day you may find yourself, or a loved one, in the position we find ourselves in and life can be very hard, so every little kindness goes a long way.
Willow Hayden
West Vancouver
