as a disabled person, what I find more offensive is an abled person deciding what's offensive to me and broadcasting their opinion as fact to the world.
I would have to agree with you on that one, Faith. 😉💜 I think it is often well-meaning, but someone who does not share my experience telling me what I need to be offended by (or should be) is weird and really off putting to me.
Yes!!!! There are a lot of disabled people that would not neccassarily WANT to change anything about themselves. I'm disabled, but I'm disabled because I'm sick, I wheelchair only part-time and walker sometiems...but I would never ever assume what a blind person or deaf person would need. I hate it when people think they know....I mean, is it just me or does she kind of paint us as being constantly bitter??
I agree 100%. A also like the guy who says, "Your offense is not my problem." Of course to be fair, I have to agree that my offence is not *YOUR* problem. After all, we *CHOOSE* to be offended, if we feel offended. Personally, I think someone should be free to do with their body whatever makes them happy. So long as they don't harm others. If you want your leg cut off, after careful and consideration, it should be allowed. It's not something I'd want for myself, but why should I be offended if it's what you want. Lots of people think pineapple pizza should be banned. But I like pineapple pizza (with pepperoni). Why should I be prevented from eating it just because you don't like it? I don't like broccoli. Just the smell of the stuff makes me sick to my stomach, but you can eat all the broccoli you want, so long as I don't have to eat it.
I am disabled. I have, among other things, periodic paralysis. When I have an attack, I cannot move my legs at all for about 14 hours. Here's the difference between me and the people who have BIID relating to their legs, i.e. wanting to be amputees or paralyzed: if they were in immediate danger, they could run away. I couldn't. I would only have the option of trying to drag my legs along in a "marine crawl." I don't deny that these people are ill, but it is a psychological disorder and they need treatment so they don't feel the need to hurt themselves, or use a wheelchair, or pretend to be an amputee. No doubt about that. I need treatment (and get it) for my severe, clinical depression. I have compassion for these people but I don't think that the term transabled is helpful or accurate. Let's just call it BIID, which is accurate.
Exactly are they mentally ill yes. Should we encourage mentally ill people in there delusion no. Do we just let people with eating disorders call themselves fat and ignore all their body shaming because they are mental ill? No that would be so harmful we work with them, stop them from harming my themselves.
It's a good thing we solved mental health. Also gonna be real helpful to the 20cc's of feecees guy to know that his legs grew back cause lithium helps some maybe.
Actually the more research they've done the more it appears to be neurological, not a mental illness. Everybody's brain has a map of their body, and in somebody with BIID (at least the "this part of this limb doesn't belong to me" variety), the brain doesn't have a normal map for that limb. So for that person it's like having a foreign object attached to them all the time. One of the criteria for diagnosing BIID is that the person knows that it sounds crazy.
@@thesisypheanjournal1271 a lot of psychological disorders are directly related to neurological anomalies. Neuropsychology specializes in that area and has been known to have better treatment results for psychological disorders that are caused by the neurological mapping you mentioned.
@@thesisypheanjournal1271 I remember someone with BIID telling me that their it felt like someone cut of her arm and replaced it with an alien arm. Its foreign, it doesn't belong
I have BIID in my right leg and was surprised to find out that my disassociation with my leg is exactly where a below the knee amputation usually is. I think it all started after a surgery on my foot and the chronic pain that came with it. It’s not that I want to be disabled, I don’t wish I was an amputee- I just have the overwhelming feeling that my lower leg does not belong, especially when I am anxious. Thank you for talking about this- I never tell people about it because I know it sounds crazy and insulting.
I don't think most people who have ever experienced phantom sensations would consider it insulting but I do have a question, I'm not disrespecting you, I'm truly curious. Do you have an actual diagnosis of BIID, or do doctors just call it that because it's convenient? It seems like your sensations would come from damaged nerves like they do with my phantom limb sensations as compared to someone with BIID where the disassociation they're getting is mental not physical. Or is BIID one of the things medicine considers a spectrum? Just curious, I'd heard of BIID a long time ago but it was still something that was being questioned as to what it was, think forty or more years ago.
@@bobohm21 not offensive at all! Thank you for asking :) I do not have an official diagnosis of BIID, I do think the doctors/myself call it that for ease, but I think you are correct, in doing more research I think the nerve damage is to blame rather than something happening completely mentally. Thank you for giving me more insight into this!
You might have a subtype of BIID called Pötzl syndrome. One of the hypotheses about this syndrome is when a limb gets injured, the connections between it and the brain gets disconnected, and the brain starts interpreting the limb (in your case your leg) as foreign. I think I have a very slight version of that on my right foot because I've badly sprained my ankle at least 5 times in my life. The last time I sprained it, I started getting really weird dissassociation feelings in my foot. Like it ought not to be there, but it is. It's very mild, lasts only a few seconds and is rare. It's so weird. Hopefully that helps!
I’ve been disabled for almost my entire life. Until recently, they’ve always been invisible disabilities. Now somedays they aren’t so invisible. But this is similar to people berating me for parking in a handicap spot. Just because I look fine and am in my 20s doesn’t give you the right to decide if I’m disabled or not. In my opinion, she needs to mind her own business since she obviously has no idea what she’s talking about.
Luvdab3achx0x0, or educate herself before she spouts off. Btw, I am an able bodied volunteer at my local rehabilitation facility that happens to be connected to our major hospital. In our facility we provide physical, occupational, psychological/psychiatric assistance to various types of patients including, amputees, paralysis, stroke, cancer, brain injury, respiratory clients both on an inpatient and outpatient basis. While I have been volunteering for a couple of years, I find I still learn something new almost every week. Certainly, not all disabilities are visible and people do not expect to see younger people with disabilities. I apologize if this comes across sounding crass, but, I consider myself to be not necessarily lucky or fortunate per say, but given the opportunity of a life lesson at an early age. There was a student in my grade school who had suffered from poliomyelitis when she was younger. She wore braces and heavy orthopaedic shoes in order to be able to walk and that was with the aid of crutches, I believe. Another young lad that I knew much better had Down’s syndrome. We treated him just like we treated any of the other kids we played with. Then a friend of the family, had an infection in his toe. He was told to stay off that foot for either 2 or 3 weeks by his doctor. Unfortunately, there was a curling tournament that weekend and being the avid curler he was, he did not listen to the doctor and curled all weekend. The upshot of that is it cost him his leg from below the knee. He actually asked for the foot face so he could take it to the taxidermist and get it stuffed so he could turn it into a cribbage board. Needless to say that did not happen. My life lesson took place from the age of about 6 to 12 or 13. It is a life lesson I wish everyone could have as it would take away a lot of the stigma that still exists. Btw there are others I could mention, but, I won’t as this comment has gone on long enough and much longer than I intended.
I'm late here but I also want to add something about Chloe White. She is actually disabled. She has chronic pain and a few other health conditions that are unrelated to her BIID. The documentary and articles initially written about her intentionally chose to leave that information out for the sake of clicks and view counts. Gem Hubbard from Wheelsnoheels did a couple of videos on this that are definitely worth a watch
@@elevenpoisons2484 Exactly, transitioning is alleviating my distress from gender dysphoria, and similarly, people with BIID may benefit from amputation. More research is certainly needed
I have been paralyzed my whole life. I've got Spina Bifida. When I first heard about all this I was absolutely upset. I never stopped to think that this was an actual disorder. My only thought was they were trying to get attention or benefits. I was absolutely upset that someone who has a perfectly abled body would want to live like this. I have a full time job, a car, and my own place. I have to work a million times harder to prove to people that I'm more than my disability. Thank you for shedding light on this. I'm less upset. Lol
As a disabled person I am just pissed and reminded again that my wheelchair is a crappier model cause I depend on health insurance. And the woman who can walk just fine has a better chair. This is what is fucked here!
So it’s like the opposite of phantom pains from amputation. Like instead of feeling like there’s a limb where there isn’t one, it feels like there shouldn’t be a limb where there is one. Putting it like that it’s almost impossible to not see the mental distress the people suffering with this has to go through. Especially if the condition has pain as side effects. If anyone has this disorder and would like to share anything about their personal experience, I am more than interested to hear what you have to say. Thank you Jo for shining a light on this. Nothing is too “crazy” to be achieved by the human mind.
In the depths of depression I've wanted to make myself more disabled. I am in an on between where I'm not disabled enough to qualify for the help that I need but too disabled to do certain things myself. It makes it super hard to get help and I'm sure I'm not the only one. I can only imagine how it feels to feel that always :( Thank you once again Jo for your beautiful heart and the way that you talk about things even if you don't understand them completely xx
Yeah, I sometimes wish I was visibly disabled either instead (preferably) or on top of "this thing that's only in my head" so that they start treating me seriously. But I don't think it's the same kind of feeling for those with BIID, maybe those with Munchausen syndrome, as that would be means to achieve sth else. I think it may be more similar to some severe cases of gender dysphoria, when for example a person wants to cut off their breasts, because they feel like a foreign object. I am transgender myself, but I don't have it that severe, I'm just guessing.
People are so quick to judge. Human brains are so incredibly complicated and science is still learning so much. Just because someone has a mental illness that seems foreign or absurd to you doesn’t make it any less valid or real. Thank you Jo for your rational discussion.
Megan is a gamer - it DOES need attention- the same way that other mental illnesses need attention. BIID seems very crazy to most of us and most of us do not know anyone with it (I sure do not and can not fathom it) so it is something That we need to learn about- the same way that society needs to learn more about mental health in general.
Running Girl Runs Very good point. I’m sorry i impulse reacted that was wrong. I know how it feels to be judged because of a mental illness 🤦🏻♀️ Always a work in progress here. Thank you for not yelling at me. ❤️
Megan is a gamer - oh god! I would never yell at someone!! I had figured it was a knee jerk reaction and just wanted to point out that it is no different than any other mental illness and that it needs attention so we are all aware and can support the people suffering with it because it sounds truly horrific.
I'm not disabled and don't want to make this about myself but I feel like the main issue here is when someone feels offended on another community's behalf. Just let people speak for themselves.
Warblerab 295 you personally know that that is offensive to Black people, at least a majority of black people. What Claire didn’t know was that BIID is NOT offensive to all disabled people, it is a disorder after all and they can’t stop the impulse to amputate or disable themselves. There are some exceptions however, like people with Tourette’s can’t stop themselves from impulsively saying and doing things they can’t control. So if they say the n- word, they’re not saying it by choice. I could have summarized that but too late now 😂
Also I've never understood the whole "I thought these people were just flat-out crazy, I didn't know there was a condition associated with this" when 'craziness' is usually associated with instability caused by mental illness - 'psycho' is very similar in that aspect. I mean all of these conditions that we name and describe and hope to treat are the result of people expressing highly abnormal or damaging patterns in behaviour and experience. People don't just 'act crazy' without any explanation or reason.
I think part of the problem is that those people dealing with BIID are often grouped in with people like the ridiculous "walking is ableist so I'm gonna refuse to walk and be transabled" type and also the fetish community who find disability a sexual paraphilia, as well as the inherent ableism of people assuming that there is a greater reason for their behaviour - such as money, etc. Plus even most of the medical profession throw around terms like "all in your head", psychosomatic, somatoform disorders, Munchausen's syndrome, attention-seeking etc dismissively. The number of people diagnosed with epilepsy that have seizures that aren't always tonic-clonic (i.e. the stereotypical grand mal, thrashing/jerking seizure people automatically think of) and who have been told that they're faking, as a result, is just unbelievable. I was misdiagnosed in a similar way for the best part of two decades with a disease that has wrecked my life, left me in permanent, constant, severe pain and other disabilities. My illness isn't even rare, as it affects 10% of women, yet despite that, has an average of 8-9 years wait before diagnosis - in large part because of this dismissal - and yet in ALL of that time, not ONE medical professional even attempted to offer psych treatment for my supposed "mental" illness. Because people like that don't understand that mental illness is just as real and valid, and in need of treatment, it's just used to dismiss and judge and is yet another form of ableism.
@@JustAnotherBuckyLover I'm really sorry you had to go through that although I know it happens literally all the time. My mum also went misdiagnosed with something for 12 years that destroyed her body. I've had a doctor sit there and literally tell me that investigating my pain that was so debilitating I at times couldn't walk was a 'waste of time'. I just went home and cried and swore off doctors for well over a year, even when I got a virus so severe that it had been giving people pneumonia and hernias. This idea of attention seekers or the people you listed first being a majority is EXTREMELY dangerous and destroys lives - and it's just not accurate. Perpetuation of these ableist ideas is just awful
@@AlanaFosterTheLlama Absoilutely - and look, I get it. Sometimes when people have certain issues that do make them appear very dramatic or in common parlance "attention seekers", especially if they're behaving in a way that feels manipulative, that can be difficult to be around. But even so - if they're actually mentally ill then that needs help too, no matter how you feel about that. And sure, some people ARE just not nice people, and sometimes you need to protect yourself by putting distance too - but just dismissing people out of hand is, as you say, dangerous and harmful. The sheer lack of empathy I'm seeing in a few posts is utterly astounding. And I don't know what the answer is in BIID. I wish that that therapy and drugs helped because it's got to be a better deal than a lifetime of disability in exchange for good mental health. But everything I know seems to say that's not working right now.
@@JustAnotherBuckyLover So much this!!! I hate that we seem so fast to dismiss people who have very obvious mental illness or unhealthy thought processes. It's like, we acknowledge there is a problem and then go "Oh well! Sucks to be you!" I'm honestly curious to know what someone who has been diagnosed with BIID's brain looks like when compared to the "average" brain or a brain that does not have BIID, and compared to brains of people with neurodiversity, and compared to brains that have other forms of mental illness (or physical ailments). To me, this seems like a prime "Hey, let's get you in touch with a neurologist to figure out if we can see what is happening in your brain." Maybe try some dopamine or seratonin meds, see if those do anything. I am not a doctor, a neuroscientist or anything of that nature, and I imagine there are reasons why this does not happen today, but it would be interesting to look at the results if there were a study done. There's got to be something more that we can do for people with BIID beyond either nothing or trying to make "conversion" therapy, like what is used on gay/trans kids to try to "make" them "choose" to be straight.
@@cordeliaface I'm sure Brain Scans have been done on people who have been Diagnosed with BIID, there is currently no Medivcation, Therapy or Treatment except Surgery.
As someone who became physically disabled this year, I feel privileged that I have been able to reach a state of acceptance with my body and I cannot imagine spending everyday unable to accept the body you're in, with no way to change it that doesn't cause serious pain and harm. I have mental and physical health disabilities, I can't walk but 100% would rather be rid of my mental ones if I had to choose between the two. Rationalising your brain's own narrative is exhausting, just because someone has a healthy body, doesn't mean they have a healthy brain. I hope and pray more research is put into this and treatments are developed for these poor souls. Thank you Jo, for shedding such a compassionate on a sensitive issue.
Something I heard about this is that it's actually that the brain can't "see" a certain body part working properly or even there at all. They say the brain has a map of the body and everything about each part like this hand is here abd it's feeling this because it's doing this. But these peoples brains see whaever part as either it shouldn't be doing or feeling these things because it shouldn't work properly or sometimes the brains doesn't see the body part at all, so even though it's physically there, it thinks it shouldn't be. That's why becoming disabled, for lack of a better way to put it, in the right way will help them because now the physical body matches the way the brains map of it.
totally right and it shows how amazing the mind is in a good and bad way i suffer with mental health problems and severe dyslexia and when i work with people who are autistic or have learning difficulties i tell that that we are just wired differently we see things others dont and these people who suffer with biid may understand things that no one else can and thats the massive mystery of the human mind
Not quite right, I am a medical student and I guess what you mean is called "neglect" or "alien limb syndrome", it is, as you said a disorder of the brain, but it is not a mental disorder. Alien limb syndrome means, that you can' voluntarily move one or more of your limbs and therefore it feels alien. It can happen if the corpus callosum is damaged. A neglect happens if a particular part of your brain is damaged and you can't notice things on one side of your body or before you. It is frustrating, but also quite hilarious, if one of your patiens doesn't shave on the right side of their body or only eats their servings till the mid of the platter. Both can be classified under the description agnosia (a =not, gnosis = to notice).
@@auntiejuly I've heard of that before, but that's not exactly what I meant. The way that was described to me is that the limb has a mind of its own and your actual brain doesn't seem to have any input in what said limb does. BIID was described like the body sees the affected part as "broken" or all together foreign and thinks it should be "fixed" or removed completely. I actually was thought to have a mild case of BIID because even as a very young girl, like 3 years old, I always wanted glasses. I always thought my eyes shouldn't be able to see how they did. I had regular eye exams and my vision was perfect until about age 8-9. I got glasses then and everything was fine. I still don't like to wear them 15 years later, because something about seeing all blurred just feels right for me. Im not sure if that's the same thing, but I do know I never thought glasses were cool or had a friend who got them so I wanted them, I was so young I don't even think I knew there was prescription glasses at that time, only sunglasses. And this is how it was described to me, but then again I was really young so...
Cutting off a limb or blinding yourself is not a good way to fix it though. Like people with the urge to self harm or even commit suicide should be encouraged to be treated psychologically, not fix it by just doing it.
@@kecrn4132 BIID is a mental illness for sure, but I thought the commentator meant agnosia😅- which is a neurological symptom- because he/she/* was talking about the various brain areas and how they work together.
For a really long time transabled people made me angry. I couldn't understand why anyone would want to deal with the things I have and the idea they wanted to be in a wheelchair, deal with paralysis or wear a brace was beyond me. But after learning about things such as BIID helped me understand that they had a disability of their own that they deal with. I would be lying if I said I don't still get annoyed or upset at times but now I try keeping in mind that they deal with a disorder and it must be difficult for them too.
Ok. Whole heavy topic aside. I love the paint job on your wall. The lines are so sharp and the colors are so soothing. A++++++ for interior design. Love you Joe!
Jo, I love the real compassion that you are showing for these people. I like you had an accident that led to chronic limb pain, multiple surgeries and gradual decline in ability to live a "normal" life, so i eventually opted for Amputation. I find it hard to understand why someone would deliberately self harm but i will not judge them. it could be said they ARE in pain is just different pain- live and let live, dont judge
The way it has always been framed is designed to cause offence. It's designed to cause an initial reaction of offence. The articles which bring this into our knowledge use words like "choice" and "want" when it isn't really like that at all, as you said. So I completely agree that it's OK to have that first thought of it's offensive, but what you do with it next, and if you react with compassion after digging a bit deeper, that's what matters.
Lexie Tibbs none of that is what I said. There are all sorts of opinions and reactions out there, but the media just want to cause the outrage first. They only mention BIID, and they don’t clarify the difference as you outlined above. They’re terrible for it.
Your channel is hands down one of the best on the internet. you are an amazing human Jo. thank you for being you and sharing your life and thoughts with the world.
Speaking from a privileged able-bodied point of view, I'll try to strongly advocate for proper subtitles in videos (especially videos like this one). There are so many deaf/hard of hearing, etc people who depend on them. Let's keep making UA-cam more inclusive and think of them.
Thank you for being so compassionate; it's refreshing to hear it in general. I'm not offended at all around transabled; that's their experience, their life. I hope they find peace, joy, and benefit society in a positive manner.
+1 Also, as a transgender person, I'm not at all offended by the term "transabled", but I think it's inaccurate, cause they are already disabled. Not all disabilities are visible. I'm also one of those invisibly disabled.
What an amazing video. I am disabled with a genetic degenerative neurological condition and as a result I use a walking frame and wheelchair (depending on what I am doing) and Gish, what it would be to NOT have this condition, to NOT be disabled but I can’t change my genetics, i can’t undo damage and while my medical team and I are working super hard to slow down the progression of my condition we can’t stop it. I think people with BIID probably feel quite similar except for them they are really alone in what they are going through, people may not understand what I go through but they can empathise and imagine what it may be like while those with BIID don’t have that because it is so hard to understand or even comprehend what it is to have BIID. I feel like some of the issues around those who are transgender may be similar to BIID, if you were going to try and find some kind of comparison I feel like that would be it, being in a body that feels so wrong and different from what you know it to be, you know who you are and who you are supposed to be yet the outward image your body has is just wrong. I can totally understand why when people first come across people with this condition the instinct reaction is horror, rejection and offence but we just need to dig a bit Draper, talk to people, try to understand. It wasn’t that long ago, honestly, within my lifetime that this was the reaction people had towards transgender individuals and thankfully now this is largely better understood and accepted, hopefully the same can be true for those with BIID in the not so distant future but the only way this is going to happen is to allow them their voices, listen to their stories and keep an open mind.
@@---bab3z We should look to evidence for which treatment is best. From what I'm aware of, therapy and medications are not always able to reduce suffering. Sometimes, the amputations are necessary for their mental health. Someone could make the same argument against transsexualism. What matters is the evidence. Just as many transsexuals are happier after transition, many people woth BIID may be happier after an amputation, but more research is needed to determine the best course of treatment.
This makes me think of when people scream "check your privilege" willy-nilly. It's meant to mean 'take a step back and assess why you are looking at an issue a certain way'. For instance, a physically fit person making fun of someone struggling going up stairs, they need to step back and say 'this person may not have the same experience/ability/fitness as me' (and they maybe go ask if they need assistance or support?). If you are not part of a group, you cannot speak /for/ that group. We can speak /with/ and /about/ the group, offering support from our places of privilege in order to boost their voices. We shouldn't make judgements on people's character from how they arrived/the reason why they have done something; we should be compassionate and listen to their story and help them. A lot of empathy and compassion for the struggle our fellow humans go through seems to have been lost at the moment. It's sad because we can treat each other and do better than we often do. Compliment someone's cool hair, give up your seat on the bus or train, help someone when you see them struggling! Be kind and be conscientious. You never know someone's story until you ask, so don't assume ❤
I have BIID. I have been a below knee amputee for 10 years and am totally happy to be one. BIID is no longer a source of anguish. Jo, I really thank you for your compassionate approach. Blair's approach to BIID sounds to me like racism and authoritarianism. It condemns people for being what they can't help being - the same as condemning people for being transgender. I made the decision to become an amputee because I lost faith in therapy and research. Years of therapy did nothing but cost me time and money. Research has provided conflicting theories about the cause of BIID but no clues about how to treat it. If tomorrow a total cure were discovered for BIID I would be happy for those who would choose to undertake it, but I cannot imagine that I would be happier being cured of BIID than I am as an amputee. And yes, I consider myself able-bodied and I help those who are less fortunate. I follow your channel to try to understand what it would be like to be an amputee and not want to be one. Your journey has been much more difficult than mine, but I hope and believe that you are now on the path to become completely able-bodied again.
I have really mixed feelings on this topic due to my own new disability and mental trauma related to that, but can I just say, I love when you wave your nubbin in the air, it’s adorable.
My aunt suffers from bdd. In some ways it seems this is similar in that they truly believe something else about their body that others do not believe/agree with as in BIID or see as in BDD. My aunt is gorgeous, so much so that when anyone told me as I child that I look like her I smiled with pride. The hard part was seeing he skin torn up and bright red because she hated her freckles so much that she tried to scrub it off with a scrubby you use on a pan in the shower. I remember being very small sitting next to her bed helping my uncle take care of her, putting cold wet clothes on her head and watching as she had what I found out later was a seizure due to ODing because she couldn't take it mentally anymore. She looked in a mirror and saw ugly, fat, disgusting but the image she saw was so far from reality. Mental health is truly difficult to understand for the family who are trying to help but far worse for the person suffering. Especially anyone who's mental stability or lack thereof can so greatly and so negatively effect the physical well being of those suffering from the types of mental illness that change their perception of their physical identity. It is so hard and so sad to not only be the family by their side but so hard on the ones actually suffering because those not going through it so don't understand. I can't imagine what they go through esp when they are receiving so much negativity rather than the mental health support they so very much need.
I love how caring, kind and compassionate you are. You always seem to know how to put a balanced and caring view of the world across to everyone. I love how you seem to use your negative past experiences to help others and not cloud your future too much. ♥️
I don’t have any disabilities, I am 14, but I just want to say something about myself. I do not have BIID but every since I was maybe 4 I have wanted to know what it feels like in some way to be disabled, whether it’s physically or mentally, I’ve always had that want to be able to understand it. I have never wanted to be disabled though, I just wanted to understand it. Most of the people I watch on UA-cam are disabled in some way and helps others understand it, because of youtube I think I understand more than an average able-bodied person who hasn’t dedicated their life to understanding all sorts of disabilities. My whole life, which of course is not too long, but for at least 10 years of my life, I have wanted to help others in any way possible, and I don’t mean it in a way where they can’t do it themselves or anything like that, what I mean is I want to take advantage of the things I am able to do to make others struggle less. Many people think when I bring up that I want to either be a doctor or just volunteer for things where I can help others, it means I just want the money, but the problem with that is that I have wanted to do this since way before I understood the concept of money so it doesn’t have anything to do with it. I was having a conversation with some adults and they kept bringing up the money part and saying that should not be why I should choose the job and I kept having to explain that money was never the reason and is still not the reason but it just seems so hard for some people to understand that money is not the most important thing to me. Something about me is that I haven’t always even wanted to understand disabilities and the struggles but also struggles that come from being temporarily disabled as if you break a bone and need a cast, brace, splint, or just some way of protecting it, in fact as a kid (younger, I’m still a kid) and sometimes even now, I will wrap up some body part and go around in my house, going up and down stairs with crutches that my dad got when he broke a ligament in his leg and when he didn’t need them anymore cut them down so I could have them, I would go up and down stairs with crutches, after already looking up the most efficient ways to do things and easiest. Around 7 or so months ago I twisted my ankle while playing basketball with my cousins and it hurt so bad I couldn’t tell if it would go away soon. I sat in my cousins beach apartment waiting to leave because that was within the first 5 minutes of my dad and I getting there. That was the first time I had genuinely experience the struggles of not being able to walk around without pain. It stopped hurting after a few days which I am grateful for. I just wanted to tell people what my entire life has consisted of in this topic. This is the main thing I think of, spending many hours a day watching videos and understanding more and more of all sorts of things. If you read this much I want to thank you for reading and just so you know, I still want to do these things, nothing will stop me from wanting to do these things.
I don't mean to diagnose you here, but it sounds like disabilities are your special interest. You might want to check if you are neurodivergent :) Anyway, good luck with your plans!
@@JankoWalski-hz3lu hi, thank you for that, you might be correct. I was diagnosed with adhd not too long ago and am wondering if I am anything else, I’ve been looking into it :)
Your kind and compassionate approach to understanding other people is truly inspirational. Thank you Jo for helping to restore my faith in human nature with every video ❤️
I think there needs to be so much more research done with BIID and and be able to find a way for surgery to be done if it does indeed prevent the person from doing something dangerous and deadly. Transgender people usually have to go through some serious hoops before they are able to get any hormones or surgery. Why can’t the same be considered for BIID sufferers. With close monitoring and certain criteria being met, wouldn’t it be possible to do no harm by ensuring a safe route of surgery or treatment than by denying them and they go to very dangerous lengths to feel right?? Just my thoughts
This is completely new to me. Now that I'm aware though, I can work on improving my compassion for people with these and other issues. Thank you! I wish you and your family Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow!
Jo, this makes me sick. I happen to know someone with BIID it's an ILLNESS this is a disability. And honestly I'm grossed out by her being able bodied. Also her tone and eye rolling, it's really insulting. Imagine feeling like you should be someone you aren't born with (hmm can we think of other communities like this?!). Jo, you're amazing, your empathy and kindness is infectious and I love you 💜
I imagine that a fair amount of people have said basically the same stuff to her about being transgender, so maybe she could look at herself and say "when people say these things to me I don't like it, so maybe I shouldn't say these same things to other people". Honestly if I said "imagine having an x and y chromosome and being so ungreatful for it, it must be so offensive for other people with these chromosomes" I don't personally feel this way, but I am sure that she would be really upset if someone said it to her. More people need to come from a place of understanding and support rather than saying that there is something wrong with them. We don't live in other peoples brains so we cannot possibly understand fully how someone else feels or thinks.
The more I read about BIID, the more people's reactions start to feel like telling a trans person, "Why transition? Just get therapy." Ultimately, removing the "offending" limb is the effective treatment at this time.
You spoke about this really well and I think it’s incredible that your able to be so strong minded about a topic that people could fin Sb offensive. Keep being you!!
Thank you, I'd also read about "trans-abled", but never read an article where they associated a condition with it. Thank you for taking the time to educate other people, like myself, on this topic. BIID needs more awareness for sure, they deserve proper care for this difficult issue. It sounds similar to transgender, in that the brain is improperly mapping the body. So, neurological. Usually, anyone on Tumblr is being attention seeking and band wagon jumping. I'd never trust Tumblr. It sucks that people are suffering with this. My initial reaction was similar to yours. But I always keep an open mind, and I love being educated. Thank you for this video. It sucks that they get some horrible judgement and comments yet no one speaks out about the science of it, the human body, and how there's still so little we know. We're so anatomically complex.
Jo, thank you for acknowledging the mental illness behind some of the people who live as a disabled person or who have disabled themselves. I can't comment on the disabilty aspect of this argument, but as someone who has been mentally ill for most of my life, I thank you for your compassion and understanding. It means the world to me. And your statement about the way that the world has demonised privilege hit home. I am privileged in many ways, but I am not privileged in others. I am just me. Trying to live, help others, and make the world a better place. I don't forget that I have certain advantages, but I try not to abuse them, but instead to use them to help others. If I am in a place to help someone else, I do. But it doesn't mean I don't need help too.
BIID is as much of a choice as being trans is. I don’t choose to be disabled and I don’t choose to be non binary, I wish BIID was more recognised and people got psychological support before causing themselves life changing injury’s, living with the consequences and damage from self harm sucks and I haven’t permanently disabled myself as a result, if someone blinds themselves on purpose because their body feels so wrong to them that should be taken seriously not belittled
@@CaatsGoMoooo if it is the only reasonable choice left of all the many ones you have tried and been made to try by professionals, then it is the only reasonable choice left. Hopefully in the future we will find out how to directly repair the connection to that body part, but these days amputation is unfortunately still a good option in some cases
You were recommended because I watch Blaire! This was a good response... respectful, lots of facts and good points. I wish all youtubers communicated this well ❤️
The more of your videos I watch, the more respect I have for you. Your emotional maturity , compassion and open mindedness is absolutely amazing. I’m so glad I found your channel. Thank you for being who you are.
As a trans man I get where Blaire is coming from the "trans" label is being g so widely applied to so many things now that it is taking away from actual dysphoric trans people. People lump trans-abled, trans-racial, trans-species all in with actual transgenderism and it is frustrating. I get where you are coming from but I also get what Blaire is saying. Our community has become kind of a joke at this point I hate it.
Just from your comment alone I can see you watch too much Blaire White while not loving and accepting yourself enough. Yes people experience being transgender in different ways and yes not all trans people have gender dysphoria. And yes not all trans people want to be quiet and unassuming and ashamed of being trans. Some people do not want to fit in. Most people Blaire made fun of are teenagers anyway which is in itself horrible. Watch videos people made about Blaire and look into yourself, ask yourself why do you feel like other people are a reflection on you somehow. Cis people don't feel like other cis people are a reflection on them so why should we? You are you, other trans people are not you. And people who hate you for being trans will hate you no matter what.
@@jamielee7404 All trans people have gender dysphoria even if they don't think they do. And a lot of non-trans people have gender dysphoria. But gender dysphoria is analogous to BIID in my opinion. We as trans people have a condition that causes us to fixate on our sex as a point of significant distress. BIID people fixate on some body part as a point of distress. Just as many gender dysphoric people greatly benefit from gender transition and sex reassignment surgery, many people with BIID may benefit from the amputation of a limb or some other similar procedure.
The prefix trans belongs to no one including the trans community, again it is prefix meaning it is applied to a base word to imply and different definition to a word. So please for the love of God don't blame people with BIID who have every right to self identify with transabled for the ignorance and hatred of the world. The world refuse to educate itself and learn the differences and complexities around all trans labels is not the fault of those affected by the stigma and oppression but the fault of those who refuse to give entire humans empathy cause we are conditioned to be selfish hateful creatures. Do not punish those with BIID for the misgivings of the world. By doing so you step on others necks to uplift yourself making you no better than your opressor.
Thanks, as someone with BIID your video really means a lot to us. Unlike 10 years or so ago when people were more open on such topic, now very few people would actually speak for us except for ourselves.
Deeply appreciated this video. I have no problem with BIID. The only thing that causes mixed emotions is that sometimes BIID patients can get better medical access to things like amputations, etc than people with disabilities can. I'm fully aware that isnt how it is in every situation though.
The only way they get access to amputations is if they cause serious bodily harm to themselves by going through extremely painful freezing (which risks heart attacks and stuff from clots since doctors want to let it thaw to see how much limb they can save), other ways (someone made a homemade guillotine, others have dropped huge items on the limbs, etc) or have an accident like anyone else.
I remember way back when I was a kid that there was this guyon jerry springer I think that suffered from BIID. At first I was shocked but it also never left my mind ether and from a young age mind you. I started to grow compassion for it myself because the older I got the more I had to deal with my own mental and phsycial disablilities. I do think that it deserves more research and more compassion. Thanks for talking about this joe!
Thank you for doing this video. I have multiple disabilities that are invisible to the public eye. I was offended by people with BIID at first because of all the negative representation that is out there. I realize now that was coming from a place of fear and not a place of love. From professional experience my main concern was that someone with BIID could take someone's spot for benefits, housing and supports that really needs it. Maybe that is not the case. It would be great to have further research on this topic. Along with continuing the fight for disability rights and better mental health services.
I have a hidden physical disability and a mental illness because of said disability. I try as hard as i can to overcome this, however i do have to use a wheelchair ( very rarely). Just had to get that out.
Jo, I started getting emotional by your compassion(ate way of speaking) even though you weren't talking about issues pertaining to me. I'm glad I was pointed to your channel! :)
As someone who's trans and has BIID, I can at least say for myself that both have had a similarly profound impact on my life. Me wanting top surgery is just as much a desperate need to me as wanting my left arm gone. I wouldn't be the man I am today without these experiences molding me. It sucks that I ended up like this, but that doesn't mean I have to act like I'm constantly sad. It's not pleasant but it's how I live, and I can either accept myself or continue to pretend that I'm completely fine.
@@firewarrior8851 I don't see what paraplegic folks have to do with amputation, if you're going to try to call me out at least use the right disability. I don't necessarily think leaving a related comment on a video about an issue I deal with is attention seeking. I don't really like all that much attention, although I do like to share my opinion just like you did by calling me a fake. I feel like you're honestly more of an attention seeker by leaving the comment you left telling me that I'm an attention seeker. You want a reaction, right? You managed so, good on you mate
I completely understand this is indeed a mental illness but if it’s so it should be treated. People should not just be cutting there limbs off or injuring themselves in this way because it can be severely life threatening especially if it is done out of impulse. It’s just a very dangerous situation forget about offending disabled people it’s just overall unsafe. But you did make some very good points i am a Blaire supporter but i can respect your opinions and points. ❤️
Unfortunately from what I know, there is currently no effective treatment for BIID. Therapy can help to deal with the feelings and “pretending” to live as if you are disabled can help some people with BIID avoid self harming by causing physical harm to the body part or to prevent feelings of suicide. I do hope more effective treatment for this mental disability is found soon.
I do watch Blaire White's videos, and I was definitely bothered by how she responded to this group of people. There isn't enough kindness and understanding in this world. You did your part and shared and helped put some of that kindness and understanding back into the universe . Good on you!! You have a really kind heart. Thank you for making this video!
I think it's "trans abled" that angers people - especially blaire- If they called themselves the BIID community instead of hitching trans to it people would be more inclined to learn about it
I am a Blaire White fan so I do agree with her in many arguments but at the same time I'm glad I saw your commentary on her video because I got more insight on a different perspective and btw your really pretty!!
This is an interesting perspective that I don’t think I would have considered before. I, personally amstill on the fence about it. I don’t think that self harm should be considered a viable option for dealing with this illness, but I appreciate hearing your thoughts.
I just watched Blair's video so I am glad you made this response! At first I too was angry and confused but appreciate the clarification. I really really hope more research and understanding goes into BIID as the self harming aspect of it is very concerning. It seems very specific they type of disability an individual wishes to attain, such as the paralysis story in Blair's video that the person wanted waist down paralysis, not neck down. I fear for the people who have attempted and failed, either resulting in ending their life or the "wrong" disability. Definitely requires more understanding.
I watched all the videos below and yours at first. I or anyone I know has BIID. The thing that I Felt was compassion towards these people. I remember watching Greys Anatomy and in one of the early episodes there was this man that wanted to be amputated and in the end cut his leg off with a chainsaw. I watched it and remembered the feeling of: how much he must have suffered to do that! I have compulsions of self-harm, but I never do it by cutting. I starve myself, or do something that I know is bad, but crossing that line of a physical cut is just unimaginable. I hope that there is more research into this and I completely understand the issue with medical field but if there is a way to help, shouldn't we seek it? If someone who is going thru this, I'm sorry and I hope you do get help and find your community so that you don't feel left alone. I wish there were more people like Joe who is willing to learn and teach us in return. I also hope Blair White would watch this video in return and maybe she could find some compassion and at least refrain from making it seem like this is the worst thing humanity has "come up" with.
At first I was like I’d give anyone my disability like take it enjoy it I certainly don’t. Then I realized I wouldn’t be myself without my disability and it’s brought me so many people who mean the world to mean who also did with chronic medical conditions.
I had BIID when i was younger, about missing a leg. Ironically, I got diagnosed with a connective tissue disorder and opted for leg braces before having any ankle surgery amd not having any surgery. As I grew older I realized I took my legs for granted and blessed. I tore everything in my ankle. I wouldn't ever wish any of this on anyone its aweful.
Also...that tumblr post is clearly satire. Even the op got tired of being targetted and had to explicitly clarify that their post was not serious whatsoever.
@@boldandbrash1990 thanks for letting me know. can't believe i fell for it. i guess there are enough insane people on tumblr that this didn't seem too out of place, but i'm relieved to know it's fake.
I have BIID and cry most nights because of my leg. I hate it. And I really dislike people who discriminate people like me. I'm really happy that Footless Jo is in peace with this. Atleast she accepts people like me. I wish that the rest of humanity would accept it too.
@@annikazehm6589 It isn't rude don't worry. I don't really know myself why the existence of my leg is so hateful to me. I just know it isn't supposed to be there. In my mind my body is without me leg. It's like I was born with an extra part that shouldn't be there. Sorry my English isn't so good but I hope you understand.
Being transgender is today not understood as a mental disorder. Having BIID is generally seen as a mental disorder. We should definitely have compassion for people who are struggling with BIID. The one commonality is both groups understand the struggle of feeling like your body is "wrong" in some way from a young age. But the "trans-abled" terminology from my perspective is trying to co-opt the language developed in the struggle for transgender rights and respect to gain legitimacy to BIID. It is a real thing, we definitely should be compassionate at the struggle people have with that disorder, however I think that approach is likely to backfire more than help. Treatment for BIID usually doesn't involve actually amputating limbs, but often is more focused on psychological support, helping people process those feelings, understand where they come from with an approach to help avoid damaging functioning body parts. Even when amputations happen, the success rate of resolving the individual's distress is......not great. Where as being transgender is generally not seen as a mental disorder, and the most effective treatment generally is supporting the person living as their internal identity, and treatment along those lines has a rather high success rate. Using the trans-* language for BIID draws a direct parallel when the treatment and type of success and social support between the two is very different. Additionally doing so can do more to undermine the transgender movement that is still struggling with people who see being transgender as a mental disorder of people who are mutilating their bodies, when that's not what's going on at all. Being trans and disabled, my heart goes out to anyone living with BIID. I don't fully understand your struggle but I have experienced enough things to be able to guess at the pain that you're dealing with. And the solution definitely isn't to shame, ridicule, and further socially isolate people with BIID. There should be compassion for the struggle that people are going through. But trying to make use of the term trans-abled is potentially damaging to the transgender community and I hope that people can see the differences while still having compassion for everyone. I'd personally prefer they stopped using the trans-abled term, I don't think that's ultimately helpful, but recognize that there may be other perspectives on that. But Blair white is a terrible spokesperson for the transgender community, and regularly puts out into the world even worse ideas of what being transgender is like and how it should be handled in society. But she sustains her popularity by validating some of the less accepting trans-paniced voices out there and legitimizes them, gaining popularity on the controversy. I have a much bigger problem with her than I do the subset of the BIID community that prefers the trans-abled terminology. Please don't support her channel or her platform, it's pretty actively setting the community back.
I respect your opinion on using trans abled terminology. However, I feel something should be corrected regarding your statement about the success rate of surgery with people who suffer from BIID, as scientific studies show the opposite. For example: [...] Surgery is found helpful in all subjects who underwent amputation and those subjects score significantly lower on a disability scale than BIID subjects without body modification. [...] Amputation of the healthy body part appears to result in remission of BIID and an impressive improvement of quality of life. (www.researchgate.net/publication/224709220_Body_Integrity_Identity_Disorder )
My only problem with this is that it's a single, small, study based on a questionnaire and what's available online does not provide how long post amputation the follow up was. There are also small studies that show sexual attraction and arousal are secondary reasons to wanting amputation. This disorder is very much an unknown that we are still working out. I do want to say that the original poster articulated most of what I was thinking very well (I'm not knowledgeable enough to comment on the trans community or speak for them).
You are incredibly well spoken. Your comments on privilege and how it should be appreciated by sharing it with those who don’t have it was eye opening and thought provoking in the most wonderful way. Would love to see you do an entire video on that topic as I think your perspective and speaking style would be able to truly affect change in those who would view it.
I found your channel today and I've watched several of your videos; what a fortuitous and fantastic trip down the internet rabbit hole. This video was my introduction to you. You're the best and I so love you. Thank you for sharing your journey and yourself. Your authenticity is clear and I appreciate your willingness to be so transparent and vulnerable with your circumstance and your inner dialogue. Your channel is an example of what a wonderful place the internet can be and the positive and genuine way people can connect with one another from the farthest reaches even about intimate and challenging subjects. Great job! Thank you.👏👏👏
Hey Jo! I've been following your journey now for a while, and I'm really proud of you for bringing awareness to this subject in such a compassionate way. I couldn't help but notice a similarity- I remember you mentioning that your amputation was elective, but of course, it was a very educated and well thought out decision with the help of doctors and family after a decade and a half of constant pain and failed surgeries, and you ultimately had to do what was best for you in order to live your life. Making that decision and having to adapt is one of the obstacles that I'm sure has been the hardest for you to overcome in your life. Comparing that to the journey of those with BIID that were highlighted in Blaire's video, who were also thrust into a decision where they had to permanently alter their lives and bodies but in their case to cope with their mental health struggles - the idea is almost the same to me. In the end of the day, they too are losing a limb or one of their five senses. You may not have phrased it that way, but I'm happy to see that you recognize this. Whether the pain is physical or mental, it's just as excruciating and something I wish everyone was respectful of. I know this video is already over two years old at this point, but I just came across it now. Wishing you the best of luck, and I really hope things get easier for you as time goes on :)
I watched the documentary called "Whole" that talks about BIID and interviews people with the disorder. I watched countless videos and read many articles on the subject. I believe it is a brain mapping problem that causes person's with BIID to think/feel this way. I came across BIID while researching how prosthetics work and how people that need them use them.
I have got chronic fatique syndrome and people still think it is a choice, because you can't see it. And people compare it with people lying around for fun. It's an international accepted illness, but still my country Austria won't support people with CFS. This hurts so much. I am too weak to drive a car, cook or be on the computer on a lot of days.
Loved this and loved your fresh view on the topic of trans able ppl. ❤ I think the knee-jerk reaction for most of us is offense, but I loved how articulate you are in this video with all the nuances and behind the scenes situations that are a big part of those ppl’s mental state. Thanks so much for posting this! You have a wonderful storytelling style that passes the information effortlessly. ❤👍🏿
When I first discovered BIID I thought I'd this real I researched it and felt bad for them but more understanding of myself and more confused of myself. Everytime someone hates on people with BIID I get upset that there not even trying to understand the situation before reacting. I hope everyone can be more like you and research understand and be less judging of others before saying things about them or anyone.
I think it’s nice to have two opinions. I commented on her video mentioning that I am kind of offended. I have seizures and my parents were told that I might not be able to swim, read very well, do math, or live normally. I’m extremely lucky that I’m on the swim team, and that I was in the top 5% of people who took the ACT (in 7th grade, albeit with extra time due to my seizures) Even though I don’t personally struggle that much, my medicine and some of my friends are daily reminders that I’m not normal. They do deserve mental help and attention to get them through BIID, but it really isn’t the same as gender dysphoria (which I experience as well) I think I’m just going to remain neutral on the issue, but I think that they should use their privilege to help the people that they think they should be almost as a form of therapy instead of messing up their bodies and regretting it later. If you actually read this comment, congrats, you may disagree with me, or you may have learned that there’s no “true way” to look at this issue. ❤️ u Jo
Thank you for this point of view Jo! I had Blaire’s point of view (I am a able-bodied cis woman) because it was the first I’ve heard of BIID so I took her mindset that she was giving out. Thank you for this education BIID ended up making a lot of sense to me because of this video.
"Disabled" is not a dirty word. I recommend learning about the social model of disability (as opposed to the medical model of disability) and how it relates to universal design if you are not familiar. It's really empowering and offers a unique perspective that sometimes is a helpful lens for me to look at myself and those around me.
@@natalieedelstein Well, I can see that your lens has allowed you to "see" things that aren't really there. Or maybe it's just your own prejudges and bias showing through. I never in any way implied that "disabled" was a dirty word. You notice that I used it, applying it to myself? It is incredibly pretensions and rude of you to just assume I think "disabled" is a bad thing. You made assumptions about me without any foundation in reality, then read into my comment what ever it was that confirmed your assumption. The reason I say I identify as able bodied is because I haven't let my missing leg prevent me form doing the things I want to do. I may not do it as fast as others, but I still do it. When I was growing up, in PE class I was almost always the only "disabled" kid. As a result I almost always finished a foot race last. But you know what the person who finished last did? That person *FINISHED* The entire time I was in school there was only one time, in first grade, when I did not finish last. And that was only because I pushed a girl down as she tried to pass me. It's not something I'm proud of, but I am proud that I never gave up. I always finished the race no matter how far behind I was.
@@erictaylor5462 I actually didn't assume that you thought being disabled is a bad thing or even a dirty word. I was just stating something I find to be true; I'm sorry you thought that I was pulling something from what you said and misconstruing it with that sentence. It was something I wrote without relation to anything you said. The lens I was presenting doesn't view disability as "not able". I absolutely understand where you're coming from. Your perspective isn't wrong. I actually support it. I was simply offering another lesser-known perspective that you can watch videos on if you haven't heard of it to see if you find any truth in it that is helpful to you. I apologize my comment was unclear.
Eric Taylor Here is an example of medical vs social model: I am a person with a genetic connective tissue disorder and use mobility aids. The medical model would be focused on fixing my mobility to make it as “normal” as possible. The social model is more focused on the environment I’m in...like designing buildings to inherently have ramps in their design. In school I was expected to make my mile times BETTER and that did mean “punishing” me for being slower than my class...later on I had a class where I was allowed to operate within my ability which led to my times improving on their own.
Thank you for posting this video highlighting the experiences of people who have had BIID.I have just know heard about it and I went from a unsympathetic view to a compassionate view for those who suffer from this depression.
I completely agree that people like this really need help - that was (and I hope it came across) the point of this video. People struggling with this disorder need real, educated, qualified help from professionals. This disorder needs real treatment, not shaming as so many others just throw at it. Its horrible that a disorder would cause someone to want to physically permanently damage and/or disable themselves...I appreciate you sharing your opinion here, too!
Interesting topic here... mixing BIID, Trans and Transability "(^ . ^)" if I would have to add something new about BIID & amputation things, on the first line, I would say : people are free, they do what they want to do with their life and their body, no place for any kind of judgements, it's fundamental. My second line is, my little story about BIID and amputation : I was born as intersex (google if needed), I had two good health and functional genitals, one inside ovary on a side and one inside testicle on the other side, with disbalanced hormones. When I was 12-13 yo, my body started to change to be a female (skin, hairs, voice, breasts you name it) until I reached my 16. At 16 yo, I was also producing testosterone and that thing destroyed everything that oestrogen have done to me before (adding more hairs on my body, body shape (I am tall), mixed voice, stop growing breasts etc). Just with that, my teen age and young adult, was just a pure hell (my mum wanted a daughter but my father wanted a son) like if someone would suffer of something with permanent pains, but adding some more problems : personal and social relationships, with some eternal questions : what and who I am in this body, do I am a girl or a boy, do I am lesbian, gay or straight (depending what gender-side I use), if I am not a considered as cisgender female XX or male XY and I am not a trans either, what kind of monster I am in this society, what is my position... ton of questions like that, it was not volountary. So, years after years I read a lot about all type of sex and gender that could exist on this earth until I decided to read my medical records (which my parents tried to hide) and found that I was a female intersex. Later-later, I wanted to read more about it and I read something about BIID (honestly, my favorite topic since that day). At this moment, new questions passed by in my head : "Ok, if BIID is something that a person who is suffering having a healthy limb(s) or body parts and decide to cut it off for a better life (or find peace), does that mean I have a BIID because I want to chop this male organ off because its not me, because its not belong to me what is it ?" Months passed blah blah, I was really questionning myself on all this but my conclusions were easy to figure out : if I would have a genital surgery (GRS), I would be the same person as before and after (fully intelligent, active, sportive, androginous and lesbian), what would be the big deal (?). So, after 34 type of documents (including echography, MRI, amputation agreement, responsability discharges, etc) and 25 months of debates (sexotherapist, psychotherapist, psychiatrist), I have decided to remove that unique testicle and that p** part, to boost my female parts because I had the chance (and the choice) to decide which gender I wanted to keep and I got my surgery in may 17, 2023 @ 7.30 am. Honestly I was very nervous and frightened a week before but at the last 30 mins in my bed at the hospital, I was so relaxed and in peace with this event, I said "wow, that is a point of no return" and someone came toward me for epidural injections and another injection and I fell asleep like a baby. Total surgery time, 3.20 hrs. Maybe all this (in details) is considered as BIID (because of "cutting a healthy body part and blah blah") but human body is a complex objects of the reality and my reality is my choices, my decisions and my desires. When all three are in harmony with themselves, there are no more existancial questions and life goes on for a better one. Since that surgery day, my life did not change a lot except for five things : lot of post-op cares (4 times per day for 3-4 months non stop), I am now myself, owner of my own body, feel completed (for now) and another page of my life is turned. But seriously, if I would really have a BIID, hidden inside of me, you can be sure I would have a "limb surgery" just to support others, for social causes and defend it for acceptations, positions and public service access, I don't have limits ; I am just myself, its my life and I like to help others...
As an “abled” person I find offensive that a person of same level spreads judgement about things they have no understanding about nor insight. What I mean is that who are we to decide about other people mental or physical state. If the person feels like they are different I see no reason to not support them and help to find best way to help them through it. Obviously mental disorders are hard to understand and some are still quite a mystery to even specialists but that in no way is a reason to judge. I would find it shocking actually not offensive. I have seen some of those BIID videos before and I find it’s just fascinating how different we are and how many people are affected by this disorder and may never talk about and feel less of who they are because of that. Essentially what I want to say is that these people need help not an opinion from judgmental people that think they know it all.
![Finally Telling the REAL Story: The Lawsuit Over My Amputation [CC]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/xNTBF2JTx7U/mqdefault.jpg)
![Finally Telling the REAL Story: The Lawsuit Over My Amputation [CC]](/img/tr.png)
as a disabled person, what I find more offensive is an abled person deciding what's offensive to me and broadcasting their opinion as fact to the world.
^ This is completely true
I would have to agree with you on that one, Faith. 😉💜 I think it is often well-meaning, but someone who does not share my experience telling me what I need to be offended by (or should be) is weird and really off putting to me.
Yes!!!! There are a lot of disabled people that would not neccassarily WANT to change anything about themselves. I'm disabled, but I'm disabled because I'm sick, I wheelchair only part-time and walker sometiems...but I would never ever assume what a blind person or deaf person would need. I hate it when people think they know....I mean, is it just me or does she kind of paint us as being constantly bitter??
I agree 100%.
A also like the guy who says, "Your offense is not my problem." Of course to be fair, I have to agree that my offence is not *YOUR* problem.
After all, we *CHOOSE* to be offended, if we feel offended.
Personally, I think someone should be free to do with their body whatever makes them happy. So long as they don't harm others. If you want your leg cut off, after careful and consideration, it should be allowed. It's not something I'd want for myself, but why should I be offended if it's what you want.
Lots of people think pineapple pizza should be banned. But I like pineapple pizza (with pepperoni). Why should I be prevented from eating it just because you don't like it? I don't like broccoli. Just the smell of the stuff makes me sick to my stomach, but you can eat all the broccoli you want, so long as I don't have to eat it.
@@erictaylor5462 well said!
I am disabled. I have, among other things, periodic paralysis. When I have an attack, I cannot move my legs at all for about 14 hours. Here's the difference between me and the people who have BIID relating to their legs, i.e. wanting to be amputees or paralyzed: if they were in immediate danger, they could run away. I couldn't. I would only have the option of trying to drag my legs along in a "marine crawl."
I don't deny that these people are ill, but it is a psychological disorder and they need treatment so they don't feel the need to hurt themselves, or use a wheelchair, or pretend to be an amputee. No doubt about that. I need treatment (and get it) for my severe, clinical depression. I have compassion for these people but I don't think that the term transabled is helpful or accurate. Let's just call it BIID, which is accurate.
zenderlee exactly
Exactly are they mentally ill yes. Should we encourage mentally ill people in there delusion no. Do we just let people with eating disorders call themselves fat and ignore all their body shaming because they are mental ill? No that would be so harmful we work with them, stop them from harming my themselves.
It couldn't have been said better
It's a good thing we solved mental health. Also gonna be real helpful to the 20cc's of feecees guy to know that his legs grew back cause lithium helps some maybe.
Honestly I think it sounds more like Munchausen Syndrome more than anything
Initially when I saw this ages ago I was horrified but then I realised it is a mental illness that can lead to serious self harm.
Exactly - same here. 💜
Actually the more research they've done the more it appears to be neurological, not a mental illness. Everybody's brain has a map of their body, and in somebody with BIID (at least the "this part of this limb doesn't belong to me" variety), the brain doesn't have a normal map for that limb. So for that person it's like having a foreign object attached to them all the time. One of the criteria for diagnosing BIID is that the person knows that it sounds crazy.
@@thesisypheanjournal1271 a lot of psychological disorders are directly related to neurological anomalies. Neuropsychology specializes in that area and has been known to have better treatment results for psychological disorders that are caused by the neurological mapping you mentioned.
@@thesisypheanjournal1271 I remember someone with BIID telling me that their it felt like someone cut of her arm and replaced it with an alien arm. Its foreign, it doesn't belong
@@josephwalker2838 Because the feeling that the limb doesn't belong there is maddening. Imagine feeling like a foreign object is stuck to your body.
I have BIID in my right leg and was surprised to find out that my disassociation with my leg is exactly where a below the knee amputation usually is. I think it all started after a surgery on my foot and the chronic pain that came with it. It’s not that I want to be disabled, I don’t wish I was an amputee- I just have the overwhelming feeling that my lower leg does not belong, especially when I am anxious. Thank you for talking about this- I never tell people about it because I know it sounds crazy and insulting.
I also have BIID in my right leg RBK same as you cool to find someone else
I don't think most people who have ever experienced phantom sensations would consider it insulting but I do have a question, I'm not disrespecting you, I'm truly curious. Do you have an actual diagnosis of BIID, or do doctors just call it that because it's convenient? It seems like your sensations would come from damaged nerves like they do with my phantom limb sensations as compared to someone with BIID where the disassociation they're getting is mental not physical. Or is BIID one of the things medicine considers a spectrum? Just curious, I'd heard of BIID a long time ago but it was still something that was being questioned as to what it was, think forty or more years ago.
@@bobohm21 not offensive at all! Thank you for asking :) I do not have an official diagnosis of BIID, I do think the doctors/myself call it that for ease, but I think you are correct, in doing more research I think the nerve damage is to blame rather than something happening completely mentally. Thank you for giving me more insight into this!
You might have a subtype of BIID called Pötzl syndrome. One of the hypotheses about this syndrome is when a limb gets injured, the connections between it and the brain gets disconnected, and the brain starts interpreting the limb (in your case your leg) as foreign.
I think I have a very slight version of that on my right foot because I've badly sprained my ankle at least 5 times in my life. The last time I sprained it, I started getting really weird dissassociation feelings in my foot. Like it ought not to be there, but it is. It's very mild, lasts only a few seconds and is rare. It's so weird.
Hopefully that helps!
This, no one is *trying* to be disabled, some people feel dysphoria so badly that there's no other option but to be disabled.
I’ve been disabled for almost my entire life. Until recently, they’ve always been invisible disabilities. Now somedays they aren’t so invisible. But this is similar to people berating me for parking in a handicap spot. Just because I look fine and am in my 20s doesn’t give you the right to decide if I’m disabled or not. In my opinion, she needs to mind her own business since she obviously has no idea what she’s talking about.
Luvdab3achx0x0, or educate herself before she spouts off. Btw, I am an able bodied volunteer at my local rehabilitation facility that happens to be connected to our major hospital. In our facility we provide physical, occupational, psychological/psychiatric assistance to various types of patients including, amputees, paralysis, stroke, cancer, brain injury, respiratory clients both on an inpatient and outpatient basis. While I have been volunteering for a couple of years, I find I still learn something new almost every week. Certainly, not all disabilities are visible and people do not expect to see younger people with disabilities. I apologize if this comes across sounding crass, but, I consider myself to be not necessarily lucky or fortunate per say, but given the opportunity of a life lesson at an early age. There was a student in my grade school who had suffered from poliomyelitis when she was younger. She wore braces and heavy orthopaedic shoes in order to be able to walk and that was with the aid of crutches, I believe. Another young lad that I knew much better had Down’s syndrome. We treated him just like we treated any of the other kids we played with. Then a friend of the family, had an infection in his toe. He was told to stay off that foot for either 2 or 3 weeks by his doctor. Unfortunately, there was a curling tournament that weekend and being the avid curler he was, he did not listen to the doctor and curled all weekend. The upshot of that is it cost him his leg from below the knee. He actually asked for the foot face so he could take it to the taxidermist and get it stuffed so he could turn it into a cribbage board. Needless to say that did not happen. My life lesson took place from the age of about 6 to 12 or 13. It is a life lesson I wish everyone could have as it would take away a lot of the stigma that still exists. Btw there are others I could mention, but, I won’t as this comment has gone on long enough and much longer than I intended.
I'm late here but I also want to add something about Chloe White. She is actually disabled. She has chronic pain and a few other health conditions that are unrelated to her BIID. The documentary and articles initially written about her intentionally chose to leave that information out for the sake of clicks and view counts. Gem Hubbard from Wheelsnoheels did a couple of videos on this that are definitely worth a watch
when Blaire White says "I can't imagine what its like to be born with a mental disability" All I can think of is "BIID IS a mental disability"
...that was the point of that statement
idk No it wasn't, she specifically placed mental illness separately from it.
@@CoRLex-jh5vx yep and she fixed it by transitioning. Silly hypocrite Blaire is
@@elevenpoisons2484 Exactly, transitioning is alleviating my distress from gender dysphoria, and similarly, people with BIID may benefit from amputation. More research is certainly needed
I have been paralyzed my whole life. I've got Spina Bifida. When I first heard about all this I was absolutely upset. I never stopped to think that this was an actual disorder. My only thought was they were trying to get attention or benefits. I was absolutely upset that someone who has a perfectly abled body would want to live like this. I have a full time job, a car, and my own place. I have to work a million times harder to prove to people that I'm more than my disability. Thank you for shedding light on this. I'm less upset. Lol
As a disabled person I am just pissed and reminded again that my wheelchair is a crappier model cause I depend on health insurance. And the woman who can walk just fine has a better chair. This is what is fucked here!
Classism /is/ really awful. I can’t even afford a basic wheelchair
Exactly! Her getting up when the stairs got TOO HARD in a wheelchair made me HOWL!
I agree. I've been a paraplegic for 46 years from the age of 19. Transabled !! They can well and truly f'k the hell off !!
I just love how calm you are while discussing about this. It really makes us want to listen to everything. ♡
So it’s like the opposite of phantom pains from amputation. Like instead of feeling like there’s a limb where there isn’t one, it feels like there shouldn’t be a limb where there is one. Putting it like that it’s almost impossible to not see the mental distress the people suffering with this has to go through. Especially if the condition has pain as side effects. If anyone has this disorder and would like to share anything about their personal experience, I am more than interested to hear what you have to say. Thank you Jo for shining a light on this. Nothing is too “crazy” to be achieved by the human mind.
Yeah
I do not have biid but I have a theory that it arrises to avoid phantom sensation but I am not trained in psychology in anyway
In the depths of depression I've wanted to make myself more disabled. I am in an on between where I'm not disabled enough to qualify for the help that I need but too disabled to do certain things myself. It makes it super hard to get help and I'm sure I'm not the only one. I can only imagine how it feels to feel that always :(
Thank you once again Jo for your beautiful heart and the way that you talk about things even if you don't understand them completely xx
Yeah, I sometimes wish I was visibly disabled either instead (preferably) or on top of "this thing that's only in my head" so that they start treating me seriously. But I don't think it's the same kind of feeling for those with BIID, maybe those with Munchausen syndrome, as that would be means to achieve sth else. I think it may be more similar to some severe cases of gender dysphoria, when for example a person wants to cut off their breasts, because they feel like a foreign object. I am transgender myself, but I don't have it that severe, I'm just guessing.
People are so quick to judge. Human brains are so incredibly complicated and science is still learning so much. Just because someone has a mental illness that seems foreign or absurd to you doesn’t make it any less valid or real. Thank you Jo for your rational discussion.
It's a mental health issue like a any mental illness i love you're open mindedness and your understanding view on these people love you jo
AMEN. Serious psychological disorder.
John Swaim AMEN A disturbing one that doesn’t need attention.
Megan is a gamer - it DOES need attention- the same way that other mental illnesses need attention. BIID seems very crazy to most of us and most of us do not know anyone with it (I sure do not and can not fathom it) so it is something That we need to learn about- the same way that society needs to learn more about mental health in general.
Running Girl Runs Very good point. I’m sorry i impulse reacted that was wrong. I know how it feels to be judged because of a mental illness 🤦🏻♀️ Always a work in progress here. Thank you for not yelling at me. ❤️
Megan is a gamer - oh god! I would never yell at someone!! I had figured it was a knee jerk reaction and just wanted to point out that it is no different than any other mental illness and that it needs attention so we are all aware and can support the people suffering with it because it sounds truly horrific.
I'm not disabled and don't want to make this about myself but I feel like the main issue here is when someone feels offended on another community's behalf. Just let people speak for themselves.
I am white. If I hear another white person use the n-word, am I not able to say that word is offensive to black people because I am not black?
@@pasoan2439 pretty sure white people saying the n-word is offensive to black people.
Warblerab 295 you personally know that that is offensive to Black people, at least a majority of black people. What Claire didn’t know was that BIID is NOT offensive to all disabled people, it is a disorder after all and they can’t stop the impulse to amputate or disable themselves. There are some exceptions however, like people with Tourette’s can’t stop themselves from impulsively saying and doing things they can’t control. So if they say the n- word, they’re not saying it by choice. I could have summarized that but too late now 😂
@@warblerab2955 what's the n word?
@@אוריפלסי don't be a jerk, you know what it stands for
I love how you described privilege. I think if people talked about it like that it would really help us move forward as a people. ❤️
Also I've never understood the whole "I thought these people were just flat-out crazy, I didn't know there was a condition associated with this" when 'craziness' is usually associated with instability caused by mental illness - 'psycho' is very similar in that aspect. I mean all of these conditions that we name and describe and hope to treat are the result of people expressing highly abnormal or damaging patterns in behaviour and experience. People don't just 'act crazy' without any explanation or reason.
I think part of the problem is that those people dealing with BIID are often grouped in with people like the ridiculous "walking is ableist so I'm gonna refuse to walk and be transabled" type and also the fetish community who find disability a sexual paraphilia, as well as the inherent ableism of people assuming that there is a greater reason for their behaviour - such as money, etc. Plus even most of the medical profession throw around terms like "all in your head", psychosomatic, somatoform disorders, Munchausen's syndrome, attention-seeking etc dismissively. The number of people diagnosed with epilepsy that have seizures that aren't always tonic-clonic (i.e. the stereotypical grand mal, thrashing/jerking seizure people automatically think of) and who have been told that they're faking, as a result, is just unbelievable. I was misdiagnosed in a similar way for the best part of two decades with a disease that has wrecked my life, left me in permanent, constant, severe pain and other disabilities. My illness isn't even rare, as it affects 10% of women, yet despite that, has an average of 8-9 years wait before diagnosis - in large part because of this dismissal - and yet in ALL of that time, not ONE medical professional even attempted to offer psych treatment for my supposed "mental" illness. Because people like that don't understand that mental illness is just as real and valid, and in need of treatment, it's just used to dismiss and judge and is yet another form of ableism.
@@JustAnotherBuckyLover I'm really sorry you had to go through that although I know it happens literally all the time. My mum also went misdiagnosed with something for 12 years that destroyed her body. I've had a doctor sit there and literally tell me that investigating my pain that was so debilitating I at times couldn't walk was a 'waste of time'. I just went home and cried and swore off doctors for well over a year, even when I got a virus so severe that it had been giving people pneumonia and hernias. This idea of attention seekers or the people you listed first being a majority is EXTREMELY dangerous and destroys lives - and it's just not accurate. Perpetuation of these ableist ideas is just awful
@@AlanaFosterTheLlama Absoilutely - and look, I get it. Sometimes when people have certain issues that do make them appear very dramatic or in common parlance "attention seekers", especially if they're behaving in a way that feels manipulative, that can be difficult to be around. But even so - if they're actually mentally ill then that needs help too, no matter how you feel about that. And sure, some people ARE just not nice people, and sometimes you need to protect yourself by putting distance too - but just dismissing people out of hand is, as you say, dangerous and harmful. The sheer lack of empathy I'm seeing in a few posts is utterly astounding. And I don't know what the answer is in BIID. I wish that that therapy and drugs helped because it's got to be a better deal than a lifetime of disability in exchange for good mental health. But everything I know seems to say that's not working right now.
@@JustAnotherBuckyLover So much this!!! I hate that we seem so fast to dismiss people who have very obvious mental illness or unhealthy thought processes. It's like, we acknowledge there is a problem and then go "Oh well! Sucks to be you!"
I'm honestly curious to know what someone who has been diagnosed with BIID's brain looks like when compared to the "average" brain or a brain that does not have BIID, and compared to brains of people with neurodiversity, and compared to brains that have other forms of mental illness (or physical ailments). To me, this seems like a prime "Hey, let's get you in touch with a neurologist to figure out if we can see what is happening in your brain." Maybe try some dopamine or seratonin meds, see if those do anything. I am not a doctor, a neuroscientist or anything of that nature, and I imagine there are reasons why this does not happen today, but it would be interesting to look at the results if there were a study done.
There's got to be something more that we can do for people with BIID beyond either nothing or trying to make "conversion" therapy, like what is used on gay/trans kids to try to "make" them "choose" to be straight.
@@cordeliaface I'm sure Brain Scans have been done on people who have been Diagnosed with BIID, there is currently no Medivcation, Therapy or Treatment except Surgery.
As someone who became physically disabled this year, I feel privileged that I have been able to reach a state of acceptance with my body and I cannot imagine spending everyday unable to accept the body you're in, with no way to change it that doesn't cause serious pain and harm.
I have mental and physical health disabilities, I can't walk but 100% would rather be rid of my mental ones if I had to choose between the two. Rationalising your brain's own narrative is exhausting, just because someone has a healthy body, doesn't mean they have a healthy brain. I hope and pray more research is put into this and treatments are developed for these poor souls.
Thank you Jo, for shedding such a compassionate on a sensitive issue.
"..doesn't mean they have a healthy brain.' EXACTLY!!
they need psychiatric treatment just like any other kind of self harm
of course but the point is that no man with disability would be offended from them, he would feel sad for them
read “Alternative princess’s” comment you should kinda understand what its about
And one of the accepted treatments for BIID is to make the body match the internal image. That is, make them disabled.
@Desire Amp yes, that's what I said.
This isn't self-harm
It's a different kettle of fish
Something I heard about this is that it's actually that the brain can't "see" a certain body part working properly or even there at all. They say the brain has a map of the body and everything about each part like this hand is here abd it's feeling this because it's doing this. But these peoples brains see whaever part as either it shouldn't be doing or feeling these things because it shouldn't work properly or sometimes the brains doesn't see the body part at all, so even though it's physically there, it thinks it shouldn't be. That's why becoming disabled, for lack of a better way to put it, in the right way will help them because now the physical body matches the way the brains map of it.
totally right and it shows how amazing the mind is in a good and bad way i suffer with mental health problems and severe dyslexia and when i work with people who are autistic or have learning difficulties i tell that that we are just wired differently we see things others dont and these people who suffer with biid may understand things that no one else can and thats the massive mystery of the human mind
Not quite right, I am a medical student and I guess what you mean is called "neglect" or "alien limb syndrome", it is, as you said a disorder of the brain, but it is not a mental disorder. Alien limb syndrome means, that you can' voluntarily move one or more of your limbs and therefore it feels alien. It can happen if the corpus callosum is damaged. A neglect happens if a particular part of your brain is damaged and you can't notice things on one side of your body or before you. It is frustrating, but also quite hilarious, if one of your patiens doesn't shave on the right side of their body or only eats their servings till the mid of the platter. Both can be classified under the description agnosia (a =not, gnosis = to notice).
@@auntiejuly I've heard of that before, but that's not exactly what I meant. The way that was described to me is that the limb has a mind of its own and your actual brain doesn't seem to have any input in what said limb does. BIID was described like the body sees the affected part as "broken" or all together foreign and thinks it should be "fixed" or removed completely. I actually was thought to have a mild case of BIID because even as a very young girl, like 3 years old, I always wanted glasses. I always thought my eyes shouldn't be able to see how they did. I had regular eye exams and my vision was perfect until about age 8-9. I got glasses then and everything was fine. I still don't like to wear them 15 years later, because something about seeing all blurred just feels right for me. Im not sure if that's the same thing, but I do know I never thought glasses were cool or had a friend who got them so I wanted them, I was so young I don't even think I knew there was prescription glasses at that time, only sunglasses. And this is how it was described to me, but then again I was really young so...
Cutting off a limb or blinding yourself is not a good way to fix it though. Like people with the urge to self harm or even commit suicide should be encouraged to be treated psychologically, not fix it by just doing it.
@@kecrn4132 BIID is a mental illness for sure, but I thought the commentator meant agnosia😅- which is a neurological symptom- because he/she/* was talking about the various brain areas and how they work together.
For a really long time transabled people made me angry. I couldn't understand why anyone would want to deal with the things I have and the idea they wanted to be in a wheelchair, deal with paralysis or wear a brace was beyond me. But after learning about things such as BIID helped me understand that they had a disability of their own that they deal with. I would be lying if I said I don't still get annoyed or upset at times but now I try keeping in mind that they deal with a disorder and it must be difficult for them too.
Ok. Whole heavy topic aside. I love the paint job on your wall. The lines are so sharp and the colors are so soothing. A++++++ for interior design. Love you Joe!
Awww thank you so much!! I painted it a few years ago - it was therapeutic to paint! I'm so glad you like it!
Honestly I would love to have a wall like that
@@hannahherrmann4921 I want to paint one too
Jo, I love the real compassion that you are showing for these people. I like you had an accident that led to chronic limb pain, multiple surgeries and gradual decline in ability to live a "normal" life, so i eventually opted for Amputation. I find it hard to understand why someone would deliberately self harm but i will not judge them. it could be said they ARE in pain is just different pain- live and let live, dont judge
Joe's voice alone shows the kind of amazing person she is. It makes you want to listen and feel the compassion as opposed to Blairs.
The way it has always been framed is designed to cause offence. It's designed to cause an initial reaction of offence. The articles which bring this into our knowledge use words like "choice" and "want" when it isn't really like that at all, as you said. So I completely agree that it's OK to have that first thought of it's offensive, but what you do with it next, and if you react with compassion after digging a bit deeper, that's what matters.
Lexie Tibbs none of that is what I said. There are all sorts of opinions and reactions out there, but the media just want to cause the outrage first. They only mention BIID, and they don’t clarify the difference as you outlined above. They’re terrible for it.
Your channel is hands down one of the best on the internet. you are an amazing human Jo. thank you for being you and sharing your life and thoughts with the world.
Speaking from a privileged able-bodied point of view, I'll try to strongly advocate for proper subtitles in videos (especially videos like this one). There are so many deaf/hard of hearing, etc people who depend on them. Let's keep making UA-cam more inclusive and think of them.
Thank you for being so compassionate; it's refreshing to hear it in general. I'm not offended at all around transabled; that's their experience, their life. I hope they find peace, joy, and benefit society in a positive manner.
+1
Also, as a transgender person, I'm not at all offended by the term "transabled", but I think it's inaccurate, cause they are already disabled. Not all disabilities are visible. I'm also one of those invisibly disabled.
What an amazing video. I am disabled with a genetic degenerative neurological condition and as a result I use a walking frame and wheelchair (depending on what I am doing) and Gish, what it would be to NOT have this condition, to NOT be disabled but I can’t change my genetics, i can’t undo damage and while my medical team and I are working super hard to slow down the progression of my condition we can’t stop it. I think people with BIID probably feel quite similar except for them they are really alone in what they are going through, people may not understand what I go through but they can empathise and imagine what it may be like while those with BIID don’t have that because it is so hard to understand or even comprehend what it is to have BIID.
I feel like some of the issues around those who are transgender may be similar to BIID, if you were going to try and find some kind of comparison I feel like that would be it, being in a body that feels so wrong and different from what you know it to be, you know who you are and who you are supposed to be yet the outward image your body has is just wrong.
I can totally understand why when people first come across people with this condition the instinct reaction is horror, rejection and offence but we just need to dig a bit Draper, talk to people, try to understand. It wasn’t that long ago, honestly, within my lifetime that this was the reaction people had towards transgender individuals and thankfully now this is largely better understood and accepted, hopefully the same can be true for those with BIID in the not so distant future but the only way this is going to happen is to allow them their voices, listen to their stories and keep an open mind.
The video was almost as amazing as this comment! U have a kind soul and a big heart! your comment is wonderful💗
Beautifully said.
It’s a mental health issue that needs to be dealt with as one , I think that’s also what Blaire was trying to say
But amputating the limb IS the treatment.
@@bronzee548 No it's not. People like that need professional help, like therapy and medication.
@@---bab3z However, therapy and medication doesn't work. So far the only treatment for BIID is amputation of the offending limb.
@@---bab3z We should look to evidence for which treatment is best. From what I'm aware of, therapy and medications are not always able to reduce suffering. Sometimes, the amputations are necessary for their mental health.
Someone could make the same argument against transsexualism. What matters is the evidence. Just as many transsexuals are happier after transition, many people woth BIID may be happier after an amputation, but more research is needed to determine the best course of treatment.
@@---bab3z why?
I thought you were going to say Blaire White accused you of having BIID for electing amputation.
Oh lordy a WAR would have been started.
Right?!
Omg me too, I was ready to be ANGERY
Tilly Divine
actually, she’s not really as bad as you’d think.
She did take down a transgender predator who’s been on the news.
Me too.
This makes me think of when people scream "check your privilege" willy-nilly. It's meant to mean 'take a step back and assess why you are looking at an issue a certain way'. For instance, a physically fit person making fun of someone struggling going up stairs, they need to step back and say 'this person may not have the same experience/ability/fitness as me' (and they maybe go ask if they need assistance or support?).
If you are not part of a group, you cannot speak /for/ that group. We can speak /with/ and /about/ the group, offering support from our places of privilege in order to boost their voices.
We shouldn't make judgements on people's character from how they arrived/the reason why they have done something; we should be compassionate and listen to their story and help them.
A lot of empathy and compassion for the struggle our fellow humans go through seems to have been lost at the moment. It's sad because we can treat each other and do better than we often do. Compliment someone's cool hair, give up your seat on the bus or train, help someone when you see them struggling!
Be kind and be conscientious. You never know someone's story until you ask, so don't assume ❤
I have BIID. I have been a below knee amputee for 10 years and am totally happy to be one. BIID is no longer a source of anguish. Jo, I really thank you for your compassionate approach. Blair's approach to BIID sounds to me like racism and authoritarianism. It condemns people for being what they can't help being - the same as condemning people for being transgender.
I made the decision to become an amputee because I lost faith in therapy and research. Years of therapy did nothing but cost me time and money. Research has provided conflicting theories about the cause of BIID but no clues about how to treat it. If tomorrow a total cure were discovered for BIID I would be happy for those who would choose to undertake it, but I cannot imagine that I would be happier being cured of BIID than I am as an amputee. And yes, I consider myself able-bodied and I help those who are less fortunate.
I follow your channel to try to understand what it would be like to be an amputee and not want to be one. Your journey has been much more difficult than mine, but I hope and believe that you are now on the path to become completely able-bodied again.
I have really mixed feelings on this topic due to my own new disability and mental trauma related to that, but can I just say, I love when you wave your nubbin in the air, it’s adorable.
As always, Thank You for being so beautifully wise and compassionate.
My aunt suffers from bdd. In some ways it seems this is similar in that they truly believe something else about their body that others do not believe/agree with as in BIID or see as in BDD. My aunt is gorgeous, so much so that when anyone told me as I child that I look like her I smiled with pride. The hard part was seeing he skin torn up and bright red because she hated her freckles so much that she tried to scrub it off with a scrubby you use on a pan in the shower. I remember being very small sitting next to her bed helping my uncle take care of her, putting cold wet clothes on her head and watching as she had what I found out later was a seizure due to ODing because she couldn't take it mentally anymore. She looked in a mirror and saw ugly, fat, disgusting but the image she saw was so far from reality. Mental health is truly difficult to understand for the family who are trying to help but far worse for the person suffering. Especially anyone who's mental stability or lack thereof can so greatly and so negatively effect the physical well being of those suffering from the types of mental illness that change their perception of their physical identity. It is so hard and so sad to not only be the family by their side but so hard on the ones actually suffering because those not going through it so don't understand. I can't imagine what they go through esp when they are receiving so much negativity rather than the mental health support they so very much need.
Thank you so so so much for speaking up for us and treating us like human beings 🥺
I love how caring, kind and compassionate you are. You always seem to know how to put a balanced and caring view of the world across to everyone. I love how you seem to use your negative past experiences to help others and not cloud your future too much. ♥️
I don’t have any disabilities, I am 14, but I just want to say something about myself. I do not have BIID but every since I was maybe 4 I have wanted to know what it feels like in some way to be disabled, whether it’s physically or mentally, I’ve always had that want to be able to understand it. I have never wanted to be disabled though, I just wanted to understand it. Most of the people I watch on UA-cam are disabled in some way and helps others understand it, because of youtube I think I understand more than an average able-bodied person who hasn’t dedicated their life to understanding all sorts of disabilities. My whole life, which of course is not too long, but for at least 10 years of my life, I have wanted to help others in any way possible, and I don’t mean it in a way where they can’t do it themselves or anything like that, what I mean is I want to take advantage of the things I am able to do to make others struggle less. Many people think when I bring up that I want to either be a doctor or just volunteer for things where I can help others, it means I just want the money, but the problem with that is that I have wanted to do this since way before I understood the concept of money so it doesn’t have anything to do with it. I was having a conversation with some adults and they kept bringing up the money part and saying that should not be why I should choose the job and I kept having to explain that money was never the reason and is still not the reason but it just seems so hard for some people to understand that money is not the most important thing to me. Something about me is that I haven’t always even wanted to understand disabilities and the struggles but also struggles that come from being temporarily disabled as if you break a bone and need a cast, brace, splint, or just some way of protecting it, in fact as a kid (younger, I’m still a kid) and sometimes even now, I will wrap up some body part and go around in my house, going up and down stairs with crutches that my dad got when he broke a ligament in his leg and when he didn’t need them anymore cut them down so I could have them, I would go up and down stairs with crutches, after already looking up the most efficient ways to do things and easiest. Around 7 or so months ago I twisted my ankle while playing basketball with my cousins and it hurt so bad I couldn’t tell if it would go away soon. I sat in my cousins beach apartment waiting to leave because that was within the first 5 minutes of my dad and I getting there. That was the first time I had genuinely experience the struggles of not being able to walk around without pain. It stopped hurting after a few days which I am grateful for. I just wanted to tell people what my entire life has consisted of in this topic. This is the main thing I think of, spending many hours a day watching videos and understanding more and more of all sorts of things. If you read this much I want to thank you for reading and just so you know, I still want to do these things, nothing will stop me from wanting to do these things.
I don't mean to diagnose you here, but it sounds like disabilities are your special interest. You might want to check if you are neurodivergent :)
Anyway, good luck with your plans!
@@JankoWalski-hz3lu hi, thank you for that, you might be correct. I was diagnosed with adhd not too long ago and am wondering if I am anything else, I’ve been looking into it :)
Your kind and compassionate approach to understanding other people is truly inspirational. Thank you Jo for helping to restore my faith in human nature with every video ❤️
Aw goodness - your words are so generous and kind. Thank you! 💜
I think there needs to be so much more research done with BIID and and be able to find a way for surgery to be done if it does indeed prevent the person from doing something dangerous and deadly. Transgender people usually have to go through some serious hoops before they are able to get any hormones or surgery. Why can’t the same be considered for BIID sufferers. With close monitoring and certain criteria being met, wouldn’t it be possible to do no harm by ensuring a safe route of surgery or treatment than by denying them and they go to very dangerous lengths to feel right?? Just my thoughts
This is completely new to me. Now that I'm aware though, I can work on improving my compassion for people with these and other issues. Thank you! I wish you and your family Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow!
This was a very compassionate and respectful video, Jo. Really appreciated your educational and caring way of explaining this topic.
Jo, this makes me sick. I happen to know someone with BIID it's an ILLNESS this is a disability. And honestly I'm grossed out by her being able bodied. Also her tone and eye rolling, it's really insulting.
Imagine feeling like you should be someone you aren't born with (hmm can we think of other communities like this?!).
Jo, you're amazing, your empathy and kindness is infectious and I love you 💜
I imagine that a fair amount of people have said basically the same stuff to her about being transgender, so maybe she could look at herself and say "when people say these things to me I don't like it, so maybe I shouldn't say these same things to other people". Honestly if I said "imagine having an x and y chromosome and being so ungreatful for it, it must be so offensive for other people with these chromosomes" I don't personally feel this way, but I am sure that she would be really upset if someone said it to her. More people need to come from a place of understanding and support rather than saying that there is something wrong with them. We don't live in other peoples brains so we cannot possibly understand fully how someone else feels or thinks.
Amen
The more I read about BIID, the more people's reactions start to feel like telling a trans person, "Why transition? Just get therapy." Ultimately, removing the "offending" limb is the effective treatment at this time.
You spoke about this really well and I think it’s incredible that your able to be so strong minded about a topic that people could fin Sb offensive. Keep being you!!
Thank you, I'd also read about "trans-abled", but never read an article where they associated a condition with it. Thank you for taking the time to educate other people, like myself, on this topic. BIID needs more awareness for sure, they deserve proper care for this difficult issue. It sounds similar to transgender, in that the brain is improperly mapping the body. So, neurological.
Usually, anyone on Tumblr is being attention seeking and band wagon jumping. I'd never trust Tumblr.
It sucks that people are suffering with this. My initial reaction was similar to yours. But I always keep an open mind, and I love being educated. Thank you for this video. It sucks that they get some horrible judgement and comments yet no one speaks out about the science of it, the human body, and how there's still so little we know.
We're so anatomically complex.
I love this video. You are so incredibly open-minded about mental illness that it nearly made me cry. We need more people like you in the world, Jo.
Jo, thank you for acknowledging the mental illness behind some of the people who live as a disabled person or who have disabled themselves. I can't comment on the disabilty aspect of this argument, but as someone who has been mentally ill for most of my life, I thank you for your compassion and understanding. It means the world to me. And your statement about the way that the world has demonised privilege hit home. I am privileged in many ways, but I am not privileged in others. I am just me. Trying to live, help others, and make the world a better place. I don't forget that I have certain advantages, but I try not to abuse them, but instead to use them to help others. If I am in a place to help someone else, I do. But it doesn't mean I don't need help too.
BIID is as much of a choice as being trans is. I don’t choose to be disabled and I don’t choose to be non binary, I wish BIID was more recognised and people got psychological support before causing themselves life changing injury’s, living with the consequences and damage from self harm sucks and I haven’t permanently disabled myself as a result, if someone blinds themselves on purpose because their body feels so wrong to them that should be taken seriously not belittled
BIID isnt a choice, but mutilating yourself because of it IS. Thats the whole issue people have.
@@CaatsGoMoooo if it is the only reasonable choice left of all the many ones you have tried and been made to try by professionals, then it is the only reasonable choice left. Hopefully in the future we will find out how to directly repair the connection to that body part, but these days amputation is unfortunately still a good option in some cases
You were recommended because I watch Blaire! This was a good response... respectful, lots of facts and good points. I wish all youtubers communicated this well ❤️
The more of your videos I watch, the more respect I have for you. Your emotional maturity , compassion and open mindedness is absolutely amazing. I’m so glad I found your channel. Thank you for being who you are.
As a trans man I get where Blaire is coming from the "trans" label is being g so widely applied to so many things now that it is taking away from actual dysphoric trans people. People lump trans-abled, trans-racial, trans-species all in with actual transgenderism and it is frustrating. I get where you are coming from but I also get what Blaire is saying. Our community has become kind of a joke at this point I hate it.
Just from your comment alone I can see you watch too much Blaire White while not loving and accepting yourself enough. Yes people experience being transgender in different ways and yes not all trans people have gender dysphoria. And yes not all trans people want to be quiet and unassuming and ashamed of being trans. Some people do not want to fit in. Most people Blaire made fun of are teenagers anyway which is in itself horrible. Watch videos people made about Blaire and look into yourself, ask yourself why do you feel like other people are a reflection on you somehow. Cis people don't feel like other cis people are a reflection on them so why should we? You are you, other trans people are not you. And people who hate you for being trans will hate you no matter what.
@@jamielee7404 All trans people have gender dysphoria even if they don't think they do. And a lot of non-trans people have gender dysphoria. But gender dysphoria is analogous to BIID in my opinion.
We as trans people have a condition that causes us to fixate on our sex as a point of significant distress. BIID people fixate on some body part as a point of distress.
Just as many gender dysphoric people greatly benefit from gender transition and sex reassignment surgery, many people with BIID may benefit from the amputation of a limb or some other similar procedure.
The prefix trans belongs to no one including the trans community, again it is prefix meaning it is applied to a base word to imply and different definition to a word. So please for the love of God don't blame people with BIID who have every right to self identify with transabled for the ignorance and hatred of the world. The world refuse to educate itself and learn the differences and complexities around all trans labels is not the fault of those affected by the stigma and oppression but the fault of those who refuse to give entire humans empathy cause we are conditioned to be selfish hateful creatures. Do not punish those with BIID for the misgivings of the world.
By doing so you step on others necks to uplift yourself making you no better than your opressor.
@@GalaxyGal-This is blatant and well documented misinformation.
Transmedicalism is transphobia and greatly harms us on a daily basis.
I’m glad you talk about this topic, the line on what’s right and wrong really starts to blur away as we are more understanding towards others
Thanks, as someone with BIID your video really means a lot to us. Unlike 10 years or so ago when people were more open on such topic, now very few people would actually speak for us except for ourselves.
Deeply appreciated this video. I have no problem with BIID. The only thing that causes mixed emotions is that sometimes BIID patients can get better medical access to things like amputations, etc than people with disabilities can. I'm fully aware that isnt how it is in every situation though.
The only way they get access to amputations is if they cause serious bodily harm to themselves by going through extremely painful freezing (which risks heart attacks and stuff from clots since doctors want to let it thaw to see how much limb they can save), other ways (someone made a homemade guillotine, others have dropped huge items on the limbs, etc) or have an accident like anyone else.
wow you are so understanding (:
I remember way back when I was a kid that there was this guyon jerry springer I think that suffered from BIID. At first I was shocked but it also never left my mind ether and from a young age mind you. I started to grow compassion for it myself because the older I got the more I had to deal with my own mental and phsycial disablilities. I do think that it deserves more research and more compassion. Thanks for talking about this joe!
I had no idea BIID was even a thing so thank you for informing us about this and your compassion towards it.
this should be treated like self harm
Thank you for doing this video. I have multiple disabilities that are invisible to the public eye.
I was offended by people with BIID at first because of all the negative representation that is out there.
I realize now that was coming from a place of fear and not a place of love.
From professional experience my main concern was that someone with BIID could take someone's spot for benefits, housing and supports that really needs it. Maybe that is not the case. It would be great to have further research on this topic.
Along with continuing the fight for disability rights and better mental health services.
I have a hidden physical disability and a mental illness because of said disability. I try as hard as i can to overcome this, however i do have to use a wheelchair ( very rarely). Just had to get that out.
Jo, I started getting emotional by your compassion(ate way of speaking) even though you weren't talking about issues pertaining to me. I'm glad I was pointed to your channel! :)
As someone who's trans and has BIID, I can at least say for myself that both have had a similarly profound impact on my life. Me wanting top surgery is just as much a desperate need to me as wanting my left arm gone. I wouldn't be the man I am today without these experiences molding me. It sucks that I ended up like this, but that doesn't mean I have to act like I'm constantly sad. It's not pleasant but it's how I live, and I can either accept myself or continue to pretend that I'm completely fine.
You are and you need to stop crying for attention. Parapalegics wish they had the privileges you have
@@firewarrior8851 I don't see what paraplegic folks have to do with amputation, if you're going to try to call me out at least use the right disability. I don't necessarily think leaving a related comment on a video about an issue I deal with is attention seeking. I don't really like all that much attention, although I do like to share my opinion just like you did by calling me a fake. I feel like you're honestly more of an attention seeker by leaving the comment you left telling me that I'm an attention seeker. You want a reaction, right? You managed so, good on you mate
Holy shit are you me in disguise? I'm also a trans guy with BIID affecting my left arm lmao.
@@Quazex ayo depressed twins??
@@inconveniencestore_ eyo lets gooooo
I completely understand this is indeed a mental illness but if it’s so it should be treated. People should not just be cutting there limbs off or injuring themselves in this way because it can be severely life threatening especially if it is done out of impulse. It’s just a very dangerous situation forget about offending disabled people it’s just overall unsafe. But you did make some very good points i am a Blaire supporter but i can respect your opinions and points. ❤️
Unfortunately from what I know, there is currently no effective treatment for BIID. Therapy can help to deal with the feelings and “pretending” to live as if you are disabled can help some people with BIID avoid self harming by causing physical harm to the body part or to prevent feelings of suicide.
I do hope more effective treatment for this mental disability is found soon.
Purple Gold will do 😂💜
Purple Gold wheneverrrrrrr 😏
I do watch Blaire White's videos, and I was definitely bothered by how she responded to this group of people. There isn't enough kindness and understanding in this world. You did your part and shared and helped put some of that kindness and understanding back into the universe . Good on you!! You have a really kind heart. Thank you for making this video!
I think it's "trans abled" that angers people - especially blaire- If they called themselves the BIID community instead of hitching trans to it people would be more inclined to learn about it
I am a Blaire White fan so I do agree with her in many arguments but at the same time I'm glad I saw your commentary on her video because I got more insight on a different perspective and btw your really pretty!!
This is an interesting perspective that I don’t think I would have considered before. I, personally amstill on the fence about it. I don’t think that self harm should be considered a viable option for dealing with this illness, but I appreciate hearing your thoughts.
In an ideal world it would never have to come to that, but the sad truth is that mental ilness can be for life and treatment isn't always effective.
I just watched Blair's video so I am glad you made this response! At first I too was angry and confused but appreciate the clarification. I really really hope more research and understanding goes into BIID as the self harming aspect of it is very concerning. It seems very specific they type of disability an individual wishes to attain, such as the paralysis story in Blair's video that the person wanted waist down paralysis, not neck down. I fear for the people who have attempted and failed, either resulting in ending their life or the "wrong" disability. Definitely requires more understanding.
it'll be interesting to get your perspective on this, excited to watch
Thank you so much! 💜
I watched all the videos below and yours at first. I or anyone I know has BIID. The thing that I Felt was compassion towards these people. I remember watching Greys Anatomy and in one of the early episodes there was this man that wanted to be amputated and in the end cut his leg off with a chainsaw. I watched it and remembered the feeling of: how much he must have suffered to do that! I have compulsions of self-harm, but I never do it by cutting. I starve myself, or do something that I know is bad, but crossing that line of a physical cut is just unimaginable. I hope that there is more research into this and I completely understand the issue with medical field but if there is a way to help, shouldn't we seek it? If someone who is going thru this, I'm sorry and I hope you do get help and find your community so that you don't feel left alone. I wish there were more people like Joe who is willing to learn and teach us in return. I also hope Blair White would watch this video in return and maybe she could find some compassion and at least refrain from making it seem like this is the worst thing humanity has "come up" with.
At first I was like I’d give anyone my disability like take it enjoy it I certainly don’t. Then I realized I wouldn’t be myself without my disability and it’s brought me so many people who mean the world to mean who also did with chronic medical conditions.
I had BIID when i was younger, about missing a leg. Ironically, I got diagnosed with a connective tissue disorder and opted for leg braces before having any ankle surgery amd not having any surgery. As I grew older I realized I took my legs for granted and blessed. I tore everything in my ankle. I wouldn't ever wish any of this on anyone its aweful.
I basically jinxed myself
Also...that tumblr post is clearly satire. Even the op got tired of being targetted and had to explicitly clarify that their post was not serious whatsoever.
I wish the Tumblr post was satire. It isn't. I actually went through the whole blog, and this really is a delusional child.
@@alyssarouso Late reply but if you go to the blog now there should be a new post saying the entire blog is satire and they're abandoning it.
@@boldandbrash1990 thanks for letting me know. can't believe i fell for it. i guess there are enough insane people on tumblr that this didn't seem too out of place, but i'm relieved to know it's fake.
Alyssa Rouso satire is dead and we sit on its corpse like a throne.
@@nevereverr unfortunately so. if tumblr can kill satire, how much longer until it kills god, assuming god exists??
This is why I love you Jo, I respect your compassion and way of putting things so much, thank you for being you :)
I have BIID and cry most nights because of my leg. I hate it. And I really dislike people who discriminate people like me. I'm really happy that Footless Jo is in peace with this. Atleast she accepts people like me. I wish that the rest of humanity would accept it too.
What about the existence of your leg do you hate? Sorry if this comes across as rude, it's not meant to be, I just want to understand.
@@annikazehm6589 It isn't rude don't worry. I don't really know myself why the existence of my leg is so hateful to me. I just know it isn't supposed to be there. In my mind my body is without me leg. It's like I was born with an extra part that shouldn't be there.
Sorry my English isn't so good but I hope you understand.
How are you discriminated against?
Thanks for your compassion for covering this
Being transgender is today not understood as a mental disorder. Having BIID is generally seen as a mental disorder. We should definitely have compassion for people who are struggling with BIID. The one commonality is both groups understand the struggle of feeling like your body is "wrong" in some way from a young age. But the "trans-abled" terminology from my perspective is trying to co-opt the language developed in the struggle for transgender rights and respect to gain legitimacy to BIID.
It is a real thing, we definitely should be compassionate at the struggle people have with that disorder, however I think that approach is likely to backfire more than help. Treatment for BIID usually doesn't involve actually amputating limbs, but often is more focused on psychological support, helping people process those feelings, understand where they come from with an approach to help avoid damaging functioning body parts. Even when amputations happen, the success rate of resolving the individual's distress is......not great. Where as being transgender is generally not seen as a mental disorder, and the most effective treatment generally is supporting the person living as their internal identity, and treatment along those lines has a rather high success rate. Using the trans-* language for BIID draws a direct parallel when the treatment and type of success and social support between the two is very different. Additionally doing so can do more to undermine the transgender movement that is still struggling with people who see being transgender as a mental disorder of people who are mutilating their bodies, when that's not what's going on at all.
Being trans and disabled, my heart goes out to anyone living with BIID. I don't fully understand your struggle but I have experienced enough things to be able to guess at the pain that you're dealing with. And the solution definitely isn't to shame, ridicule, and further socially isolate people with BIID. There should be compassion for the struggle that people are going through. But trying to make use of the term trans-abled is potentially damaging to the transgender community and I hope that people can see the differences while still having compassion for everyone. I'd personally prefer they stopped using the trans-abled term, I don't think that's ultimately helpful, but recognize that there may be other perspectives on that.
But Blair white is a terrible spokesperson for the transgender community, and regularly puts out into the world even worse ideas of what being transgender is like and how it should be handled in society. But she sustains her popularity by validating some of the less accepting trans-paniced voices out there and legitimizes them, gaining popularity on the controversy. I have a much bigger problem with her than I do the subset of the BIID community that prefers the trans-abled terminology. Please don't support her channel or her platform, it's pretty actively setting the community back.
Oh yes, this here ⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️mmmmhmmm yup.
Thank you.
Yep, this.
I respect your opinion on using trans abled terminology. However, I feel something should be corrected regarding your statement about the success rate of surgery with people who suffer from BIID, as scientific studies show the opposite. For example:
[...] Surgery is found helpful in all subjects who underwent amputation and those subjects score significantly lower on a disability scale than BIID subjects without body modification. [...] Amputation of the healthy body part appears to result in remission of BIID and an impressive improvement of quality of life.
(www.researchgate.net/publication/224709220_Body_Integrity_Identity_Disorder )
My only problem with this is that it's a single, small, study based on a questionnaire and what's available online does not provide how long post amputation the follow up was. There are also small studies that show sexual attraction and arousal are secondary reasons to wanting amputation. This disorder is very much an unknown that we are still working out.
I do want to say that the original poster articulated most of what I was thinking very well (I'm not knowledgeable enough to comment on the trans community or speak for them).
You're truly awesome Jo!! We need more folks like you! People with compassion.
You are incredibly well spoken. Your comments on privilege and how it should be appreciated by sharing it with those who don’t have it was eye opening and thought provoking in the most wonderful way. Would love to see you do an entire video on that topic as I think your perspective and speaking style would be able to truly affect change in those who would view it.
I found your channel today and I've watched several of your videos; what a fortuitous and fantastic trip down the internet rabbit hole. This video was my introduction to you. You're the best and I so love you. Thank you for sharing your journey and yourself. Your authenticity is clear and I appreciate your willingness to be so transparent and vulnerable with your circumstance and your inner dialogue. Your channel is an example of what a wonderful place the internet can be and the positive and genuine way people can connect with one another from the farthest reaches even about intimate and challenging subjects. Great job! Thank you.👏👏👏
Jo, I am not an amputee but I enjoy your channel so much. I love watching your journey. By the way... I am 13
Hey Jo! I've been following your journey now for a while, and I'm really proud of you for bringing awareness to this subject in such a compassionate way. I couldn't help but notice a similarity- I remember you mentioning that your amputation was elective, but of course, it was a very educated and well thought out decision with the help of doctors and family after a decade and a half of constant pain and failed surgeries, and you ultimately had to do what was best for you in order to live your life. Making that decision and having to adapt is one of the obstacles that I'm sure has been the hardest for you to overcome in your life. Comparing that to the journey of those with BIID that were highlighted in Blaire's video, who were also thrust into a decision where they had to permanently alter their lives and bodies but in their case to cope with their mental health struggles - the idea is almost the same to me. In the end of the day, they too are losing a limb or one of their five senses. You may not have phrased it that way, but I'm happy to see that you recognize this. Whether the pain is physical or mental, it's just as excruciating and something I wish everyone was respectful of. I know this video is already over two years old at this point, but I just came across it now. Wishing you the best of luck, and I really hope things get easier for you as time goes on :)
I watched the documentary called "Whole" that talks about BIID and interviews people with the disorder. I watched countless videos and read many articles on the subject. I believe it is a brain mapping problem that causes person's with BIID to think/feel this way. I came across BIID while researching how prosthetics work and how people that need them use them.
I have got chronic fatique syndrome and people still think it is a choice, because you can't see it. And people compare it with people lying around for fun. It's an international accepted illness, but still my country Austria won't support people with CFS. This hurts so much. I am too weak to drive a car, cook or be on the computer on a lot of days.
I like how open minded you’re❤️🙌🏾
Loved this and loved your fresh view on the topic of trans able ppl. ❤
I think the knee-jerk reaction for most of us is offense, but I loved how articulate you are in this video with all the nuances and behind the scenes situations that are a big part of those ppl’s mental state.
Thanks so much for posting this! You have a wonderful storytelling style that passes the information effortlessly. ❤👍🏿
Early and excited! Spot on JO!!! 👍🤗✊I've always been supportive of the BIID community.....I mean.... Consenting adults ... Just trying to be happy
Thank you for watching and sharing your own thoughts! 💜
Thank you for your thoughts on this, and especially for your acceptance and compassion.
I love both of y'all, I'm so ready to watch the tea
😆 Hopefully nothing too actually dramatic! But let's definitely sip some tea together. 😉
When I first discovered BIID I thought I'd this real I researched it and felt bad for them but more understanding of myself and more confused of myself. Everytime someone hates on people with BIID I get upset that there not even trying to understand the situation before reacting. I hope everyone can be more like you and research understand and be less judging of others before saying things about them or anyone.
I think it’s nice to have two opinions. I commented on her video mentioning that I am kind of offended. I have seizures and my parents were told that I might not be able to swim, read very well, do math, or live normally. I’m extremely lucky that I’m on the swim team, and that I was in the top 5% of people who took the ACT (in 7th grade, albeit with extra time due to my seizures) Even though I don’t personally struggle that much, my medicine and some of my friends are daily reminders that I’m not normal. They do deserve mental help and attention to get them through BIID, but it really isn’t the same as gender dysphoria (which I experience as well) I think I’m just going to remain neutral on the issue, but I think that they should use their privilege to help the people that they think they should be almost as a form of therapy instead of messing up their bodies and regretting it later. If you actually read this comment, congrats, you may disagree with me, or you may have learned that there’s no “true way” to look at this issue. ❤️ u Jo
Thank you for this point of view Jo! I had Blaire’s point of view (I am a able-bodied cis woman) because it was the first I’ve heard of BIID so I took her mindset that she was giving out. Thank you for this education BIID ended up making a lot of sense to me because of this video.
Well, in that case I am "transabled." I am missing a leg, but I identify as able bodied (not disabled).
Good one!!
"Disabled" is not a dirty word. I recommend learning about the social model of disability (as opposed to the medical model of disability) and how it relates to universal design if you are not familiar. It's really empowering and offers a unique perspective that sometimes is a helpful lens for me to look at myself and those around me.
@@natalieedelstein Well, I can see that your lens has allowed you to "see" things that aren't really there. Or maybe it's just your own prejudges and bias showing through.
I never in any way implied that "disabled" was a dirty word. You notice that I used it, applying it to myself?
It is incredibly pretensions and rude of you to just assume I think "disabled" is a bad thing. You made assumptions about me without any foundation in reality, then read into my comment what ever it was that confirmed your assumption.
The reason I say I identify as able bodied is because I haven't let my missing leg prevent me form doing the things I want to do. I may not do it as fast as others, but I still do it.
When I was growing up, in PE class I was almost always the only "disabled" kid. As a result I almost always finished a foot race last. But you know what the person who finished last did? That person *FINISHED*
The entire time I was in school there was only one time, in first grade, when I did not finish last. And that was only because I pushed a girl down as she tried to pass me. It's not something I'm proud of, but I am proud that I never gave up. I always finished the race no matter how far behind I was.
@@erictaylor5462 I actually didn't assume that you thought being disabled is a bad thing or even a dirty word. I was just stating something I find to be true; I'm sorry you thought that I was pulling something from what you said and misconstruing it with that sentence. It was something I wrote without relation to anything you said.
The lens I was presenting doesn't view disability as "not able". I absolutely understand where you're coming from. Your perspective isn't wrong. I actually support it. I was simply offering another lesser-known perspective that you can watch videos on if you haven't heard of it to see if you find any truth in it that is helpful to you. I apologize my comment was unclear.
Eric Taylor Here is an example of medical vs social model: I am a person with a genetic connective tissue disorder and use mobility aids. The medical model would be focused on fixing my mobility to make it as “normal” as possible. The social model is more focused on the environment I’m in...like designing buildings to inherently have ramps in their design. In school I was expected to make my mile times BETTER and that did mean “punishing” me for being slower than my class...later on I had a class where I was allowed to operate within my ability which led to my times improving on their own.
Thank you for posting this video highlighting the experiences of people who have had BIID.I have just know heard about it and I went from a unsympathetic view to a compassionate view for those who suffer from this depression.
Okay I disagree. I’m disabled and it makes me sad that people want to disable themselves they need help
I completely agree that people like this really need help - that was (and I hope it came across) the point of this video. People struggling with this disorder need real, educated, qualified help from professionals. This disorder needs real treatment, not shaming as so many others just throw at it. Its horrible that a disorder would cause someone to want to physically permanently damage and/or disable themselves...I appreciate you sharing your opinion here, too!
this is why i love you, jo! standing up for us with lesser known disorders!
Interesting topic here... mixing BIID, Trans and Transability "(^ . ^)" if I would have to add something new about BIID & amputation things, on the first line, I would say : people are free, they do what they want to do with their life and their body, no place for any kind of judgements, it's fundamental. My second line is, my little story about BIID and amputation : I was born as intersex (google if needed), I had two good health and functional genitals, one inside ovary on a side and one inside testicle on the other side, with disbalanced hormones.
When I was 12-13 yo, my body started to change to be a female (skin, hairs, voice, breasts you name it) until I reached my 16. At 16 yo, I was also producing testosterone and that thing destroyed everything that oestrogen have done to me before (adding more hairs on my body, body shape (I am tall), mixed voice, stop growing breasts etc). Just with that, my teen age and young adult, was just a pure hell (my mum wanted a daughter but my father wanted a son) like if someone would suffer of something with permanent pains, but adding some more problems : personal and social relationships, with some eternal questions : what and who I am in this body, do I am a girl or a boy, do I am lesbian, gay or straight (depending what gender-side I use), if I am not a considered as cisgender female XX or male XY and I am not a trans either, what kind of monster I am in this society, what is my position... ton of questions like that, it was not volountary.
So, years after years I read a lot about all type of sex and gender that could exist on this earth until I decided to read my medical records (which my parents tried to hide) and found that I was a female intersex. Later-later, I wanted to read more about it and I read something about BIID (honestly, my favorite topic since that day). At this moment, new questions passed by in my head : "Ok, if BIID is something that a person who is suffering having a healthy limb(s) or body parts and decide to cut it off for a better life (or find peace), does that mean I have a BIID because I want to chop this male organ off because its not me, because its not belong to me what is it ?"
Months passed blah blah, I was really questionning myself on all this but my conclusions were easy to figure out : if I would have a genital surgery (GRS), I would be the same person as before and after (fully intelligent, active, sportive, androginous and lesbian), what would be the big deal (?). So, after 34 type of documents (including echography, MRI, amputation agreement, responsability discharges, etc) and 25 months of debates (sexotherapist, psychotherapist, psychiatrist), I have decided to remove that unique testicle and that p** part, to boost my female parts because I had the chance (and the choice) to decide which gender I wanted to keep and I got my surgery in may 17, 2023 @ 7.30 am.
Honestly I was very nervous and frightened a week before but at the last 30 mins in my bed at the hospital, I was so relaxed and in peace with this event, I said "wow, that is a point of no return" and someone came toward me for epidural injections and another injection and I fell asleep like a baby. Total surgery time, 3.20 hrs.
Maybe all this (in details) is considered as BIID (because of "cutting a healthy body part and blah blah") but human body is a complex objects of the reality and my reality is my choices, my decisions and my desires. When all three are in harmony with themselves, there are no more existancial questions and life goes on for a better one.
Since that surgery day, my life did not change a lot except for five things : lot of post-op cares (4 times per day for 3-4 months non stop), I am now myself, owner of my own body, feel completed (for now) and another page of my life is turned. But seriously, if I would really have a BIID, hidden inside of me, you can be sure I would have a "limb surgery" just to support others, for social causes and defend it for acceptations, positions and public service access, I don't have limits ; I am just myself, its my life and I like to help others...
As an “abled” person I find offensive that a person of same level spreads judgement about things they have no understanding about nor insight. What I mean is that who are we to decide about other people mental or physical state. If the person feels like they are different I see no reason to not support them and help to find best way to help them through it.
Obviously mental disorders are hard to understand and some are still quite a mystery to even specialists but that in no way is a reason to judge.
I would find it shocking actually not offensive. I have seen some of those BIID videos before and I find it’s just fascinating how different we are and how many people are affected by this disorder and may never talk about and feel less of who they are because of that.
Essentially what I want to say is that these people need help not an opinion from judgmental people that think they know it all.
Your videos make my days so much better Jo
Have you ever thought about making ASMR? I really like listening to your voice