When I started performing music again, in college. In middle school and high school, I performed for talent shows but didn’t really perform at venues or open mics. When I got to college, I started writing songs again, and seeing others perform their original music showed me that I could do it too.

Most notably, I have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), and narcolepsy with cataplexy. For me, EDS causes chronic pain, fatigue, gastrointestinal symptoms, partial and full dislocations of my joints, and some other various symptoms.

I originally played guitar, and while I still pick it up sometimes, it still increases my hand pain, so I switched to writing on and playing electric bass. It’s frustrating to not be able to consistently play an instrument I’ve been playing for so long, but it’s also allowed me to realize that I love playing bass!

My POTS makes standing for a long time difficult—though, moving around on stage helps combat some of that. Standing in the crowd is a different story, though.

Narcolepsy has been more socially difficult for me. My cataplexy can kick in after performing, making it hard for me to move or seem responsive, which can leave me unable to socialize. If I get too tired, I can’t stop yawning and might have a sleep attack. The later a show is, the more likely I am to have to leave early or go to the car to sleep. I once got in trouble at a bar I played at because they assumed I was inebriated, when I was just trying to get through narcolepsy symptoms.

I started playing my own music live before I had words for my disabilities. I remember getting a cyst due to a physically demanding job and thinking, “I should be able to push through this.” I realize now that EDS makes my joints more vulnerable to cysts and other injuries and that I can’t just push through everything. It’s been a balancing game of learning how to accommodate for my own disabilities and to not feel ashamed for having to take breaks or slow down.

Most of the time, I’m able to have a chair just in case. Sometimes I ask for less lights, depending on the venue. The most frustrating is when I’ve needed to use my wheelchair and found that the venue was not wheelchair accessible when it claimed to be. I’ve had to get out of my chair, have it lifted on stage, then walk up the steps with my cane so I can sit again.

Definitely not. I’ve performed at a couple of venues that are pretty accessible for wheelchair users, but it’s not very common. I feel like a lot of people don’t really know what accessibility means, or what accommodations should be offered, and that is consistent in the world of music venues.

Honestly, it’s stayed the same for the most part. I’ve helped some folks who organize shows to include thorough accessibility information, but even that can be a struggle to make happen. It’s especially challenging in DIY settings, where there are little funds to go towards the costs of making a venue accessible.

In Bellingham, we have the Alternative Library that is really wonderful. Everything is on one level and the bathrooms are spacious. The performance area can be on an elevated stage or on the floor, which is super nice. It’s always a good experience there. I’d also say that my experiences with DIY scenes in Portland have been really warm and welcoming. When I lived there, there was a big push to include detailed accessibility info and help disabled folks play and see shows.

Being told I had to wake up or leave at a show where I was struggling with my narcolepsy symptoms. Oh, and one instance (or two or three) where I tried to use the “accessible” bathroom stall at a venue and couldn’t fit with my chair.

One of the most annoying things is not being able to get to the stage independently. A ramp up to the stage would even benefit people moving amps and other large gear.

Having the accessibility information readily available makes everything easier, it’s really frustrating to go back and forth to try and coach venues on what information is needed.

Also, venues: less flashing/moving lights please. Not just for the artists, but also for show-goers. For many, flashing or moving lights can trigger migraines, vertigo, nausea, or seizures. I’d rather play a show where the lights aren’t too bright as well.

Also, just admitting what you don’t know instead of being defensive when accessibility needs come up could change a lot. It’s so easy for us to get discouraged, especially when someone else doesn’t want to learn.

Disabilities can look so different between people, even within the same condition. Many disabilities are invisible. And, sometimes, disabilities can vary in how they present day by day. Take a moment to think before approaching someone you might assume is intoxicated. Ask if they’re okay or need water.

I’m always a Mitski fan. Thelma, who also has EDS, released a beautiful album. Laura Stevenson’s new album is one of the most gorgeous things I’ve listened to. Control Top, Potty Mouth, Charly Bliss, and PUP have released some cool albums this year! And the new Stef Chura album is great (plus, I love Car Seat Headrest, who produces the album). I also loved the Du Blonde album from this year. Oh, and that Karen O album with Dangermouse. There’s a couple young Bellingham bands I’ve really enjoyed seeing live: Beautiful Freaks and Razzleberry. We also recently played with Alien Boy and B.R.U.C.E. from Portland, and they’re both so good!

I want to play a show with PUP, Charly Bliss, and Speedy Ortiz. And Jeff Rosenstock. I’m also hoping that we get to play with Wheelchair Sports Camp someday! Punk and hip hop are a match made in heaven.

• Bandcamp: Porch Cat
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