Towards the end of the vlog, they did it yet again, talking about Abbie right in front of her. Talking about her sensory issues and how she did in Ikea. I know this is a point of contention but, I think regardless of where Abbie's cognitive and comprehension levels may or may not be at, I still think it's incredibly disrespectful and dehumanizing to talk about Abbie right in front of her or within her ear shot. That's not treating her with respect, kindness or 'like a human'. It's treating her like an object, like a 'thing'.
I'm sure by this point Abbie is probably used to it. But that doesn't make it alright. Neither does thinking she isn't intelligent enough to understand exactly what they're saying about her. She may not comprehend each and every single word, but I feel she understands enough to know that they're talking about her. Especially hearing them say her name.
I know they've been doing this a lot and it's a recurring theme. It just especially irked me tonight.
I'm sure by this point Abbie is probably used to it. But that doesn't make it alright. Neither does thinking she isn't intelligent enough to understand exactly what they're saying about her. She may not comprehend each and every single word, but I feel she understands enough to know that they're talking about her. Especially hearing them say her name.
I know they've been doing this a lot and it's a recurring theme. It just especially irked me tonight.