In this podcast, we love to dive into topics that not many people like to discuss openly. This is a huge part of awareness in the disability community, and we are happy to be vessels of curiosity! This episode we address the taboo topic of “Devotees” in the community of Spinal Cord Injury by interviewing Rebecca, a young woman who considers herself a Devotee.
So what exactly is a Devotee? There are many definitions of this circulating online, many highlighting people who are “physically and sexually attracted to someone with a disability.” While there are plenty of negative horror stories online surrounding Devotees, there are not many positive accounts of what it is like to BE a devotee or live the devotee lifestyle. Who are these people and why are they hiding in the shadows?
A few months ago in another podcast episode, we discussed a negative experience we had with a Devotee in the WAGS of SCI community who were grooming and harassing followers of ours in order to satisfy a fetish. This was the only experience we had with this kind of instance, so we were understandably defensive and shocked to say the least. We are protective of our followers, so we proceeded to warn people about the dangers online when it comes to disabled fetishes. Shortly after that episode aired, we received an email from a listener named Rebecca, asking us if we were open to hearing another perspective about being a Devotee from one who actually WAS one – another account of this lifestyle that was positive, and allowed room for more awareness and acceptance. She was sick of hearing about all the negative fetish horror stories that shined a less than flattering light on her dating preferences. We were intrigued, and decided we wanted to talk to her ourselves and learn more about her and her thoughts, feelings and experiences. …
This episode is all about frank discussion, curiosity and opening your mind. We know that this topic is triggering for many, and we understand the misconceptions that come along with a discussion like this. We ask you as our listeners to keep an open mind and listen.. you may learn a lot. We know we did! So join us as we delve into what a Devotee is, Rebecca’s feelings around who she is attracted to and why, and her opinions around dating men in wheelchairs. You will NOT want to miss this eye opening jaw dropping episode!
This episode is sponsored by Wishart Brain and Spine Law https://brainandspinelaw.com. Robyn Wishart and her team of SCI Lawyers specialize in helping those who are injured live a life and NOT a claim and serve clients all over North America as advocates. To learn more about what Robyn is doing to help the WAGS of SCI community, visit our website or contact Wishart Law directly to discuss your claim for FREE.
This episode is sponsored by Camp PossAbility , a camp for people with Spinal Cord Injuries aged 18-40. This years Camp PossAbility is in Martinsville Indiana, and will be attended by people from all over the United States. This week long camp hosts many adapted activities, and provides all its attendees with trained SCI assistants for BP, transfers, Skin checks and more (they even include medical supplies and equipment!). This years Camp PossAbility runs from August 1st – 6th 2021, and registration opens February 1st. Limited spots available with financial aid and payment plans available for those who need it. The best part? Most of the Camp fee is taken care of by Camp PossAbility staff through grants and donations. For more information visit http://www.camppossability.org or email lauren@camppossability.org. You can also contact them via their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Shout Out to Rebecca Minna of For The Love Of Parking https://www.fortheloveofparking.com, an advocacy platform dedicated to creating awareness and education around access for all. Rebecca is dedicated to changing ADA laws, but needs YOUR help! She also sells medical grade Percussor massage devices on her “shop” page (use code WAGSOFSCI for a discount!) For more information visit https://www.fortheloveofparking.com and use the hashtag #DontParkLikeAPunk