Never the victim ??

[rictus01]

Originally Posted by CoolGirl

Mark, that's shocking - sending you a hot water bottle and a hug.
I've noticed it myself though. Being disabled makes you more vulnerable and a target for, at the very least inconsiderate behaviour, and at worst being taken advangtge of.

thanks Deb, yeah I've had the inconsiderate bit already, but I was remembering back (OK a fair way, but still) to a PTI on my per-para, "you're a mean killing machine", Oh how the mighty have fallen.......

[Stu]

I'm completely shocked that they do stoop so low as to pick on someone they think is a cripple.
How naive of me.
Really sorry to hear this Mark. Can only hope this doesn't leave too much of a lasting effect on you.

But I must say, please report to the Police, however, pointless or painful you thhink it might be, it's the only defence we have.

[Spiderman]

Dont let it get to you Mark, that way they not only stole your gear but beat you mentally too.
You know this.
I know its hard right now tho.

[rictus01]

I I'm OK at the moment, the world is seem through a filter of painkilers so it almost seams unreal at present, just waht I need.

[CheGuevara]

Some years ago (back in Canada) I was walking home from the pub (a bit buzzed but not trashed) and I was attacked from behind by a group of about 10 youths. The first hit was with something solid (pipe? skateboard?) as it broke my jaw and split my wisdom tooth in half. I saw some stars and dropped to my knees and was then subjected to numerous kicks and punches to the head; jaw broken in 2 places (now have a plate and screws), cracked orbital socket, and almost lost an ear (swelling cut off the circulation and it turned black). I never lost conciousness but the event is (fortunately?) a bit hazy due to the blows to the head. I spent nearly a week in hospital, and a couple weeks recovering at home before I could return to work.

Now I'm a pretty big boy - about 6'4", 225lbs (bit more than that now) and was in very good shape at the time. Speaking to the police afterwards they said I was likely attacked because of my size - that these kids figured they'd boost their egos/rep by claiming they kicked the crap out of a big guy even if it was 10:1 and a suprise attack with a weapon.

So "crippled" or strong and able, there's always some idiot(s) who will look to take advantage of an opportunity.

Best thing to do is just be alert (but not afraid) about who's around you. Odds are pretty good that these kids would not have bothered if you had spotted them coming. And if you know you can't avoid the attack/fight; hit first, hit hard, and hit the ringleader if there's more than one -if he backs down then likely the others will too. (Not advocating violence, but self-defence has it's place and time).

Edit - forgot to mention, hope you heal up soon!

Jeez Mark, that's terrible! I really can't believe what some people will stoop to...Sending maximum hugs your way!




Remember that we are all vulnerable to some extent - that 'killing machine' could have still been a target for a group of thugs.

Don't stop doing what you love doing... (but maybe keep more of an eye out in future)

Originally Posted by Fizzy Fish

Remember that we are all vulnerable to some extent - that 'killing machine' could have still been a target for a group of thugs.

...As CheGuevara has just proved!

[anna]

that sounds dreadful. hope you mend soon.

the hardest thing to get your head round in this situation is that you done nothing wrong and couldnt really have done anything to change the situation. these type of people would have done this regardless and even more worryingly will no doubt do it again!

just keep the wits about you, but dont change your life over what happened, no point ruining your life over things you cant control.

Mark, it's ten times work to pick on someone with a disability. I'd report to the police, if only so they can watch out for a gang in the same area.

I hope that they haven't damaged your knee.

Man hug.

Ed