A few months ago, I underwent a Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery due to osteoarthritis in my knee. At that time, I didn’t realize how much this experience would change the way I see the world.
The recovery period was not easy. For about a month and a half, a wheelchair became my constant companion. Simple things that I once took for granted (moving freely, entering a building, sitting comfortably) suddenly required extra effort, patience, and courage.
Despite my condition, I chose not to stay at home. I continued to visit cafes, banks, and other public spaces. Living as a temporarily disabled person opened my eyes. I became deeply aware of how important accessibility is, and how often it is overlooked. Before going anywhere, I found myself checking whether a place was wheelchair-accessible. Once, I even called a bank in advance just to make sure I would be able to enter.
Sadly, I realized that accessibility in my city is still uneven. Government offices and university campuses are usually equipped with accessible walkways, but this is not always the case for smaller banks and cafes. There were moments when I had to ask waiters to help lift my wheelchair, small acts of kindness that reminded me how much we depend on empathy when systems fail us.
Today, I have fully recovered and can walk normally again. But the experience stayed with me. Being temporarily disabled taught me empathy, patience, and awareness. It reminded me that accessibility is not a privilege, it is a necessity. This journey has inspired me to contribute in my own way, by sharing information about accessibility facilities on Google Maps, hoping it will make everyday life a little easier for others.
Miss u too 