The Waiting Game

They say "All good things come to those who wait." Well, whoever those people are, they obviously have never had to deal with accessible transit, housing wait lists, or any other service for disabled people.

Example: Today, I met a friend to see the new Justice League movie. The pick-up to the theatre was fine (pretty early, but there was a Starbucks within walking distance so no big deal), and the movie was awesome! It was the return trip that was the problem.

I phoned Para Transpo after the movie to check the drivers ETA and was told about 25 minutes. Para Transpo comes with a grace period of half-an-hour on either end, which I understand. And normally, I'd be okay with waiting around, but not this time. My friend needed to catch a bus (most people I know understand Para and will occasionally wait, but I'm also understanding when they need to leave), it was getting cold (November in Canada, eh), and I didn't want to stand outside a theatre for nearly 30 minutes looking weird. Thankfully, I only live about ten minutes away, and my Dad was able to pick me up.

But this has happened before, only with no response from Para and no family nearby (cabs and a disability pension can be a pretty good combination in a jam.) Luckily, this kind of scenario hasn't happened too often.

Whether things work out or not, it's still a waiting game and it sucks. One of the reasons I carry a novel everywhere I go.

And if waiting for Para Transpo is annoying, then the waiting game for housing is downright painful! I first went on a waiting list for accessible housing in Ottawa in 2009, just after I was accepted into Scriptwriting. When my family and I were settled in the city, I went on another list for more locations. That's almost eight years, the better part a A DECADE, waiting on a list! Once a year, I phone in to check my status, usually to no avail. Every two years, I get asked to update or confirm my interest so they can keep my account active. The average wait time is about twelve years, so at least I know I may get an answer before I turn 40...

As with Para, it sucks but at least I've got my family who are willing to help and help me look for alternatives.

I understand waiting for medical things (consults, procedures, etc.) can be a pain too, but I haven't had much experience in that are, so I can't really go there.

So yeah, waiting sucks royally. There are a lot of screwed up systems and services out there. But, there are also some things I'd rather have than not so, with varying amounts of patience, I'll just keep waiting, looking for any alternatives I can, and always with my nose in a book.

Cheers