For Hayden Yung Hok-yat, a 15-year-old Hongkonger living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), going out in a wheelchair is like tackling an obstacle course.
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Whenever he goes, from bustling shopping centres and restaurants to serene country parks, he must make sure there is a functional accessible toilet that is unlocked – some are closed off to prevent misuse by those without physical disabilities.
The city’s transport systems are largely accessible, but a smooth journey depends on an available wheelchair space, clear ramp access at the pickup and drop-off point and considerate passengers who make way for him, a rare occurrence.
Unfriendly stares and intrusive questions about why he uses a wheelchair are common frustrations for the teenager.
“People like asking why I’m still in a wheelchair when my younger brother is walking, but what does it have to do with me?” Hayden said with a wry smile on his face.
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“I hope people can better understand the needs of disabled people like me.”