The "Super Crip"

Disability seems to remain invisible within our society. In rare cases, however, disabled individuals perform what “normal” abled individuals would see as quite difficult considering the disabled status of an individual such as painting, intelligence, driving, even parenting. For example, many television shows and talk shows are dedicated to people with “extraordinary” stories or peculiar disabilities, such as a paralyzed bride-to-be.
Why do we seem to “celebrate” disabled individuals when they perform seemingly “normal” actions? Is it that we are surprised that they are able to overcome what we perceive as medical aversive conditions and obstacles? Or, is it surprising that they are able to navigate and succeed in a society which is created on the basis of an ideal, or “normalcy?” Do we admire people with disabilities for being able to live “the way they do?” Does the idea of the “super crip” exist due to common belief that one disability in one area is complimented with superior abilities in another area? (e.g. a blind person who has superior hearing). Does it reinforce the notion that disability can be overcome if only the person would “try hard enough?”

Angela B.