The increasing presence of young women using mobility aids like walking sticks and wheelchairs has led to a heated discussion about invisible disabilities and chronic illnesses. This conversation gained momentum after a controversial opinion piece by Kathleen Stock appeared in The Times in August 2026. In her article, Stock questioned why more young women are using walking sticks, suggesting that social media subcultures might be encouraging them to identify as disabled. This viewpoint sparked significant backlash from disabled individuals, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups, emphasizing that the need for mobility aids cannot be judged merely by appearance.
Experts who spoke to Bored Panda noted that many chronic conditions can cause symptoms that vary day by day. In her piece, Stock hinted that the increased visibility of young women with mobility aids might have links to social contagion, where online influences shape how individuals perceive their own health. She also raised doubts about the legitimacy of their pain and suggested these women should abandon their aids to be more independent. This perspective drew criticism for possibly leading readers to question the genuineness of disabilities that aren’t outwardly visible.
In response, a petition on Change.org titled “Demand accountability from The Times over Kathleen Stock’s article on disabled women” called for a review of Stock’s claims. The petition argues that the portrayal of mobility aids as “props” contributes to the misconception that disabled people must prove their conditions if they appear healthy. It highlights the struggles of individuals with fluctuating disabilities, who may have variable mobility depending on their health status.
As of now, the petition has garnered around 1,800 signatures, reflecting ongoing criticism of the article online. Its organizers clarified they do not wish to end discussions about medical issues, but they believe claims surrounding disability should rely on factual evidence rather than assumptions.
Physical therapist Rob Letizia, who has 25 years of experience with mobility aids, explained that there are numerous reasons why someone might need these supports. Conditions like joint instability, recovery from an injury or surgery, neurological disorders, and fluctuating fatigue and pain can all impact a person’s movement abilities. He stated that the need for mobility aids relates to functional ability rather than age.
One condition that has become central to this discussion is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS), which affects the autonomic nervous system that controls involuntary functions such as heart rate and blood pressure. Dr. Lesley Kavi, the chair of PoTS UK, has been involved in explaining these medical complexities.
What are your thoughts about the discussions surrounding mobility aids and chronic illnesses?
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Source: Bored Panda, by Gabija Saveiskyte