My thoughts... It's a personal call... some dont' feel comfortable self indentifying with a particular issue, health problem, handicap, what have you. Or may be too proud, stubborn, whatever, to 'give in' another inch to this disease. Think I fall into this latter category. Having said that, if none of the above deter you from seeking special parking or other privileges, AND it's available/legal where you call home, AND your doctor ascertains you qualify, then my advice is go for it. Now, some may think/feel that only those who really need it should apply/get this privilege. But, obviously, your doctor must consider that your condition does merit it... and he/she is the professional. The thought that these SHOULD only go to those who absolutely need it has merit, but I've witnessed a number of sham/scam artists who've been given benefits like this, tho my investigation often demonstrated they clearly didn't deserve it.
so, fact of the matter is a lot of people do exploit it.. your condition may very well be exceedingly more legitimate a use of these 'special' privileges than any number of others... That's why I think you have to make the initial call yourself, then with the backing of a 'legitimate ' issue and an 'ethical' medical practioner, leave the worry of who should/shouldn't get these privileges; and whether theres enuff to go around, in the hands of the professionals. Once you've done that, there is no 'good' reason to question yourself about it, or to let anyone on the outside 'second guess' your decision. Like, do we hold a contest on here to see who has the worst case of IBD, or the best? We aren't that judgemental of others, why do we treat ourselves that way? Shouldn't we be on our side?
