Disabled Individuals Also Deserve A Hot Girl Summer

The first time I donned a two-piece swimsuit at the beach post-diagnosis was undeniably nerve-wracking. I was already facing judgment whenever I ate or monitored my blood sugar levels. People would express their disbelief at the thought of giving themselves an injection, and I constantly fielded questions about what I could eat as they peered over my plate. I was convinced that my chronic illness would be on display for everyone to scrutinize at the beach or pool.

The alternative was to stay away from the beach, wear a full-coverage suit with a special pocket for my insulin pump, or throw a cover-up over my swimsuit. None of these options appealed to me. So, I took a deep breath and joined my family at the shore, my pump tubing trailing from my hip. Yes, I attracted some curious glances and a few questions, but at least I wasn’t hiding who I was. Embracing my true self, illness included, felt liberating. Now, fifteen years later, I firmly believe that hot girl summer is for people with disabilities, too.

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a young adult after a year of illness that resulted in significant weight loss, constant hunger and thirst, and relentless fatigue. A virus triggered my decline, and despite numerous medical appointments, I only received a proper diagnosis when I was nearly in a life-threatening situation in the ER.

Being informed that I had a lifelong autoimmune disease was a significant moment, coupled with the overwhelming amount of education that came with it. Type 1 diabetes is serious; it’s literally a matter of life and death. Since my body doesn’t produce insulin, I had to administer it through injections or an insulin pump, all while testing my blood sugar multiple times a day and meticulously counting every carb I consumed. It was a lot to take in.

Fortunately, advancements in diabetes technology and education have made things easier since my diagnosis. I still encounter people with diabetes horror stories or who mistakenly think I have the “bad type of diabetes,” but I’ve developed resilience. When someone shares a grim tale about their relative’s foot amputation, I simply let it slide. If I fixated on every comment or question, I would be unhappy.

Type 1 diabetes is not something you can hide easily. I bolus insulin from my pump several times daily, and the gear is often visible when I wear a swimsuit. These days, I don’t worry about people seeing my insulin pump clipped to my clothing, even when I’m at the beach. I’ve also learned to embrace my stretch marks and mastectomy scars. Caring about others’ opinions requires energy that I’d rather invest in enjoying life.

Despite societal pressures, there are no criteria that determine who deserves to enjoy the beach, pool, or any summer fun. Whether your so-called “flaws” are medical devices or physical appearances, you have every right to embrace the sunshine and have a great time. After all, nobody has a perfect body.

Everyone—regardless of fitness level or dietary habits—faces body image issues. Many of us carry scars from hurtful comments made in our youth or from the media we consume. Perhaps a doctor made a dismissive remark about our weight that lingers in our minds. It’s hard to imagine anyone arriving at the beach without some concerns about their body, though those of us with visible differences in ability often face extra scrutiny.

I wonder if we all chose to show up authentically, comfortable in our own skin, we could shift the narrative. Pool time is not a fashion show or a magazine cover; it’s simply a moment to enjoy. Presenting our true selves is the best way to embody the “you do you” philosophy and inspire others.

Let’s face it—it’s summertime, and it’s too hot to wear extra layers just to hide what we don’t love about our bodies. In fact, I believe most people are more preoccupied with their own bodies than they are judging others.

When I see someone confidently displaying their medical gear, I want to give them a high-five. Whether it’s an ileostomy bag, a mobility aid, or an insulin pump, I admire their bravery—not in a tokenizing way, but in recognition of the confidence it takes to be open about one’s disability. Being visible with our medical gear invites additional attention that can be challenging to handle.

I came to realize I had a choice: I could focus on others’ perceptions or I could channel my energy into enjoying time with my family at the beach. There’s really no middle ground. It took practice—showing up several times with my diabetes gear on display—before I could truly enjoy myself, but I accomplished it. To use a cliché, practice does make perfect, or at least close to it.

I refuse to cover up for the comfort of others. My only criteria are that I can access my pump and protect it from the heat. I wear swimsuits that I like, and that’s all that matters. My hot girl summer is in full swing, and I hope yours is too.

This article was originally published on July 23, 2021.

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In summary, everyone, including those with disabilities, deserves to enjoy summer activities without feeling the need to hide their true selves. Embracing who we are can liberate us from the constraints of societal expectations.

Keyphrase: Hot Girl Summer for Disabled Individuals

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