Evansville, Indiana (WFIE) – At Central Loft Apartments in downtown Evansville, residents say the elevator has been out of order for almost two weeks.
For residents like Megan Cyler, who is wheelchair bound, it’s more than an inconvenience.
The 60-step staircase that separates the 3rd floor where Zailer lives from the outside world.
60 steps she can’t walk.
She said the elevator broke down a few times in less than a year, but it’s annoying that this time it didn’t need urgent repairs.
“Somewhere, it’s very difficult to know that people are disrespecting me or others because of a waiting elevator or a staircase,” says Seiler.
“So we had to ask my dad to take us down the stairs over Christmas, which was unsafe,” explains Seiler. It was hard for others to know that there was no one available to take them down the stairs. is not necesary to.
She says maintenance has promised to get the elevator up and running multiple times, but Thursday said it looks like next week before she and other disabled residents can move downstairs. I have been told.
As such, Thaler says she’s using the situation to speak out about accessibility for people with disabilities everywhere, not just at home.
It has drawn attention from the community, including 1st District Councilman Ben Trockman.
“I hope Megan speaks up and becomes a strong advocate, and when this story spreads, it inspires others to think, ‘How can we be more flexible,’” says Tlockman. .
That’s Sailer’s plan for T.
“My goal is to influence and be heard. As someone with a disability, sometimes my voice is not heard and I have to push,” says Seiler.
She knows maintenance workers are working to fix problems, but seeing the outreach and interaction from community members who have listened to her and other residents with disabilities is I say it’s incredible.
“The community listens, the community sees the problem, and they want to fight for it, which means a lot,” says Seiler. We can talk about other people with disabilities and together make the world a better place. ”
As of Friday, 14 News called and emailed building management to get an update on the exact timeline for elevator repairs, but did not receive a response.
So was the manager while we spoke to Sailor.
When asked for comment, she said she was not authorized to speak on the matter.
We are still waiting for a statement that she will come.
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