Disabled-Parking Permits -- Placard Is A Vital Benefit For Those Of US Who Suffer From Rheumatoid Arthritis

EDITOR, THE TIMES:

I applaud The Times' investigation of the disabled-parking system, especially in view of the fact that over 10,000 dead people have placards. However, I wish to correct an impression the article gave about people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Just because a person with rheumatoid arthritis has had joint replacements does not mean that the person can walk long distances or walk without pain. I have had arthritis since I was 9 and received knee and hip replacements in my early 20s. Even though there was a tremendous improvement in my mobility, I cannot walk very far without pain or fatigue. I have arthritis in nearly every joint in my body, and they can't all be replaced, especially ankles. Also, I was told that my joint replacements would last for only about 10 years, depending on the amount of "wear and tear" put on them. My joints have lasted longer than 10 years, but the more strain put on them the more often they will have to be replaced.

As for using a metered parking space instead of a pay parking lot downtown, I would gladly pay money to park close to where I am going. As an attorney, I often have to go to the King County Courthouse downtown. The available pay lots are at least a block or more away from the courthouse, so the only other option is a metered space. Having a disable placard doesn't guarantee that I will find a close parking space, but when I do find one, it means a manageable walk from my car. It also means that I do not have to walk out of the building several times a day to feed an expired meter.

I feel very lucky that I can walk as well as I can, and can be a productive member of society. With a placard, I do not have to wear myself out just walking to the building where I am working. For most of my life, I have tried to hide my disability, being embarrassed by my limping gait and gnarled hands. I find it ironic that now I sometimes feel that I should try to "look disabled," so people don't think I am unfairly taking advantage of this small, but important benefit.

Lisa Scott Bellevue