i commend amber s. for standing up for herself and her son and i feel great courage for ellie for admitting that she may have acted in a way that made amber feel as though she wasn't welcomed - and did something about it. we need more people like amber s. and like ellie in this world. the perfect solution to a situation that happens all too often.

The owner of the store did not, as Amber S. claims in her rant, refuse to allow her and her son to shop in her store because the child was in a wheelchair. She simply requested that Ms. S. abide by the same rules that all parents with children in wheeled conveyances are asked to observe, which rules are there for the protection of the children and of the business owner's merchandise. I fail to see how this is an unreasonable request.

While neither the business owner nor Ms. S. report the actual content of their original discussion, I suspect that Ms. S. jumped to a conclusion without asking sufficient questions to understand the business owner's request. I suspect that Ms. S. also failed to inform the business owner of the special circumstances for her child; it seems clear that the two of them could have worked out a reasonable solution without all of the vitriol on the part of Ms. S.

I write comments and they vanish. Let me try again. I see this as a totally over reactive parent . There was no big problem here just a Misunderstanding and the Mother decided to have a hissy instead of explaining that the "stroller device" was actually a wheelchair. some people just have such a chip on their shoulder that they can not rationally talk things thru.

I will leave a much longer detailed comment at a later time. The most important thing to mention here is that the first words out of my mouth to Ellie when she said "No strollers" was "Its actually a wheelchair, hes disabled." I am very open about my son's disability. When she still refused to allow his wheelchair in her store, I said "You understand it is 100% illegal to discriminate against the disabled, right?" So yes, Ellie did know my son was in a wheelchair. I would not have reacted this way otherwise. I have no reason at all to lie about this situation, Ellie has every reason to lie to cover up how she treated my son. Take time to actually think about that fact.

This is Ellies original response on her facebook page and to those who emailed her directly

"Ellie's Choice: Hey Everyone Here is the truth, the child was welcomed into the store and was in the store. I held the door for her. Unfortunately our business is in the Historic District and does not have handicap accessibility. The building is over 100 years old and is on the National Historic Register. This woman came in with her child with what looked like a stroller of which we can not accommodate as the store is a small store with narrow isles. Most people who come in with a stroller will park the strollers up front and carry their child or understand the store is small and will come back another time, which they do. I do not know this woman nor have I ever seen her before and she started complaining about the steps and stating it was against the law. She then threaten to turn me into the borough or any one else. I explained that the store was too small and all she did was scream at me. (continued in next comment)

There was another customer in the store at the time and even she was wondering why I was being treated rudely. I would like you to know right up front that my husband and I took care of my mother who was confined to a wheel chair for 17 years and we are very sensitive to handicap people. Also I did not realize that the child had cerebral palsy as she would not even engage in a conversation to settle things down. This is not an illegal building nor is my store illegal, it is very small and someone could knock into something with a stroller and their child could get hurt. I appreciate your comments and we are working to figure out solutions to make the store more accessible to everyone. I would also like to know how you came to get on this destructive ban wagon. Maybe she is so distraught with her child that she can not reason but I know we never took my mother to a store that was not handicap accessible or was not large enough for her wheelchair. I would never put another merchant or business in a bad situation then try and destroy them."

This is my comment back to Ellie, Please take the time to read before you decide who to believe. Remember who actually has a reason to lie right now...

"Amber : Okay Ellie, What you just made up is simply to cover up what you did wrong. I will address each lie in a listed form.
I DID tell you his 'stroller' was in fact a wheel chair because he was disabled, as soon as you informed me no strollers were allowed in the store.
I never once told you the steps were against the law as I am aware of the ADA and that older buildings are not always required to be accessible outside. I simply said they were not convenient. I do know, however, that the ADA states this: “Sec. 12182. (a)No individual shall be discriminated against on the basis of disability in the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations of any place of public accommodation by any person who owns, leases (or leases to), or operates a place of public accommodation.” Public accommodation is defined to include “a bakery, grocery store, clothing store, hardware store, shopping center, or other sales or rental establishment.” In this statement you ARE in violation; in telling my son his WHEELCHAIR was not allowed past the front, and your aisles being too small for a wheelchair- from your own admission. However, his WHEELCHAIR would have fit down the aisle around the register. (continued in next)

Even after I informed you that it was “illegal to discriminate against the disabled” you insisted his wheelchair stay at the front. So, yes, I did inform you that your actions were illegal and my son was disabled, again.
I see that you are still calling my son’s wheelchair a stroller- you should fix that. I can show you the invoice from the medical device supply company if you would like proof.
While I was at your store, I never once threatened to call the Borough, as I did not even know I could do that until the following day when it was suggested by a fellow storeowner.
I absolutely raised my voice to you when you denied my disabled son access to your store. However, I never once ‘screamed’ at you. I didn’t scream until I got outside and called a friend.
Where was this ‘customer’ in the store? Where is this ‘customer’ now? I would love to have a conversation with them! The only person I saw was a woman entering as I was being escorted out (you hold the door). I also heard this woman say ‘I know, Im early!” This does not sound like a traditional customer, but rather a friend or employee you were expecting. She also did not come in until after this incident took place. She was sitting at the counter with you when I reentered your store about 5 minutes later to ask your name. This must not be the ‘customer’ you are speaking of. (continued in next)

It amazes me that you think it is acceptable to expect people to ‘come back another time.’ I would never limit my son’s daily life and opportunity to enter a building simply because the owner does not follow the ADA. He deserves the same opportunities and quality of life as everyone else without brain injury or other limitation. I am deeply sorry for your mother who may have wanted to go to her favorite store but you would not take her because the aisles were small. That is a shame. His WHEELCHAIR would have fit down the main aisle around the register, which is where I was planning on keeping him while I shopped the tiny aisles so I could keep him in sight. I informed you my son was disabled and you still insisted his WHEELCHAIR was not allowed past the front. Since he is disabled and cannot walk, this meant I would have to leave him at the front as well. Do you really feel it is acceptable to leave a 2.5 year old disabled child alone and out of sight?
Quite frankly, if my son’s WHEELCHAIR knocked anything over, I would be responsible for paying for it. So, you have no argument there. Would you stop a woman with a large purse? A man with a cane? A war veteran who lost his legs in Iraq? An old lady with an oxygen tank? Where do you draw the line of discrimination? We are all very curious. (continued on next)

I can NOT believe that you just accused me of being ‘distraught with her child.” My son is absolutely amazing and the happiest child you will ever meet. Everything I do in life, I do for him. He has overcome more obstacles in his 2.5 years of life then most will in 90. He was a survivor even before he entered this world. HOW DARE YOU!
Those who commented know me, and my values. They know who is honest and dedicated and who is clearly covering themselves. We will let the public decide. "

The end. As you can see I address each of the issues you will have with this situation in detail. I clearly support local business as I was trying to shop at this store.

Amber, calm the heck down. Do you LIVE to be offended? The fact that this woman apologizes and you keep badgering her tells me you've got much more serious issues in your life and just looking to unload on someone.

To all of you not defending Amber , you are disgusting!! Amber felt that her child was being discriminated against and he Most Certainly was, to call Amber "oversensitive" is far from the truth. Whats next , ellie? Can overweight people be banned to the front of the store as well due to not fitting around the aisles? So please save your apology! In fact , you should be sentenced to do some volunteer work with the disabled for the next year until you realize the magnitude of what you have done.

enough amber. we get it. I think you do yourself a huge disservice by writing a novel. The owner apologized and claims to have learned from her mistake. It apperas she was rude to you but lets hope she is truly sorry and has learned from this mistake.

Im sorry you had to go through this situation.

Listen, Tammy, I don't do pathetic. Beyond an apology, this becomes pathetic. Amber needs to GRACIOUSLY accept the apology and move on. Do you even know what the purpose of her incessant ranting is now? I'll bet not. There's no point now except for her getting her emotional jollies. ENOUGH ALREADY!!!! I support her only to the point of the apology. After that, she's an abuser. sorry. That's how I feel. The woman installed a call button and apologized. What more does Amber want? counseling?

"I regret any appearance of being insensitive or discriminating—I simply did not understand the circumstances.

As a result of this misunderstanding, I have installed a call button at the front of the building so that customers can call me as soon as they decide to enter my store. My thought is that our communication can begin on a positive note and the customer will be able to discuss any needs he or she might have when we first meet.

I am always looking for ways to accommodate my customers with disabilities. It is a continuous process as I welcome all people, from all walks of life, into my store. I do, however, continue to advise my customers to carry their small children whenever possible for safety reasons.

I am sorry, Amber S. of Pottstown, for the misunderstanding. I appreciate what I have learned from this experience and the positive changes I have made as a result. I will continue to strive to provide quality goods and excellent customer service to all."

Now, this is an apology if ever I heard one. As I said before, SOME PEOPLE LIVE TO BE OFFENDED.

sue her

For what damages?

Ellie's has been a pillar and a mainstay in Phoenixville for over 25 years. She has always been welcoming and been the source of the Best gifts for children and adults. She has navigated through some very hard and dark times in Phoenixville, and unlike many other business has weathered the "renaissance" and stood her ground, Only ever hoping for the best for Phoenixville, and encouaging others to support and be involved in Phoenixville, she is a true leader in this town.
I feel offended and affronted at this negative attack on Ellie's. Use of common sense, instead of attitude and streamrolling because it's "your right" would have been much more appropriate behavior! Right or not, we just can't always go where ever we want to go. And Ellie's aisles, with it's delicate, fragile, wonderful wares is not the place to try to navigate, or bulldoze, a stroller, wheelchair, cart, etc. It's just BAD form!!
Take heart Ellie, that you have the support and sympathy of your local patrons, who are very grateful to you and your service to the community!!

Amber, when are you taking your son and his wheelchair mountain climbing? Yes, I know this sounds silly but come on! I think that our society has made many improvements to help the disabled. Is it perfect? No, but I think you'll agree that conditions are much improved from 20-30 years ago.

Regardless of everyone's best efforts and a lot of $$ spent there will be some things that the wheelchair-bound will be unable to do. And while that's unfortunate, it's also the real world.

Amber you sound like a person who is bitter about her lot in life. It sounds like you do your best to make those around you miserable as well.

Elle I will stop by your store to support you.

Chuck, me too! See you there :)

In all the years I have known, and shopped with Ellie, she has been gracious, accomodating, and about as welcoming as a retailer can be. Obviously I cannot attest to anything that the parties say occur here, but when somebody does the right thing every time you (and your friends) shop with her, it's hard to believe that other customers do not get the same courtesies.

Ellie is absolutely a pillar of the business community in Phoenixville. Running a business in a small town for the past several years has required courage and stamina. Expecting every business to create wheel chair access throughout the store is unrealistic. There is not room for any wheelchair in Ellie's Choice, and she is not required to provide that. Any 2 1/2 year old should be carried and carefully supervised there (and in every other retail establishment). I cannot imagine that ANY of our lovely small gift stores in Phoenixville could accommodate any wheelchair or stroller. They must maximize their space for inventory to make a go of their business. Parents need to be realistic about their children's access to retail experiences throughout their lives. Carry your child if s/he rides in any kind of wheeled vehicle when going in to a small retail store.

For those of you referring to Ellie apologizing and Amber should be moving on, I think the big reason is that Ellie's apology is for something made up. Amber has clearly stated that she informed Ellie right away that it was a wheelchair, not a stroller. Ellie is apologizing for misunderstanding her which means either she was not listening to Amber or she didn't care. Amber is not a sympathy seeker by any means. She is a loving mother who only wants to see her son given the same courtesy as any typical person. When one person with a disability is offended by someone's lack of understanding, it is not just the single person with a disability who is being offended, it is all the rest of them as well. Amber clearly stated she was planning on keeping her son in the one aisle that was wide enough for a CHILD sized wheelchair so she could keep an eye on him. She is not so insensitive that she would bulldoze as someone stated, around the aisles and into the delicate items. She also stated that had she knocked something over, she would by all means be responsible for paying for the item as if it were a purchase. All of you bashing her are insensitive and need a reality check!

People with cerebral palsy do climb mountains: http://abcnews.go.com/WN/man-cerebral-palsy-climbs-el-capitan-raise-money/story?id=11644222

The issue is disability awareness and equality and your ignorant comments and virtual high fives highlight the issue exactly.

Jennifer: That apology sounded just fine to me. Maybe Amber would like a pound of flesh to go with it? Amber is the type of customer that goes into a store and sees herself as a little god, just daring anyone to offend her. This is celebration time for someone like her. A CAUSE! YAY! A TORCH TO HOLD! YAY! And guess who became the abuser? Amber! Hanging on to Ellie's jugular like a rabid dog. Have fun. I'm outta here.

http://camelbackland.com/2012/01/north-korea-sending-citizens-to-labor-camp-for-insufficiently-mourning-kim-jong-il/

Damn america and the way we treat our own citizens. Its a sad day when our shopping trips are spoiled

I am going to have to disagree with you Cindy being as I know Amber. But hey I don't know Ellie either so I guess you and I can agree to disagree on that note.

"...against the law AS I am aware of the ADA and that older buildings are not always required to be accessible outside."

"...call the Borough, AS I did not even know I could do that ..."

"being AS I know Amber."

Sorry, I just had to interject here. You must be VERY close friends. You have the same speech habits. Wow......that's incredible Amber, I mean Jennifer.

Cindy, so you ," dont do pathetic?" believe me you passed that several comments ago and yes being required to attend counseling sounds like a good start for Ellie, sometimes sorry doesnt make up for what's been done and this is one of those cases!
@ chuck , you are a vile human being, i think a public lynching would work well fo you.

What some of you are not getting is Amber's Point of View.
I do have sympathy for her and her child because I live this with my son everyday.
Our Children don't look disabled because their injury lies beneath hair,skin and bone. Its in the missing gray and white matter of their brains.Our children appear normal and therefore sistuations like this are a daily occurance for us. We have to prove that our chilldren have needs because people cant see the evidence with their eyes. So Amber may have been a bit sensitive that day but we all have days like that. This incident could have been the straw that broke the camels back. Comapssion and empathy are lacking in this case. Carrying a 2.5yr old which you could not set down because they sant stand let alone walk is asking a bit much dont you think?

Ellie needs to reconfigure/redesign her store so that all individuals, including those in wheelchairs, can access it. Whether exempt from the law or not, it is the right thing to do. Installing a call button is not sufficient. An apology should state that Ellie is sorry her store is not accessible to individuals who use wheelchairs and that she is working to make the store accessible. Period.

"She expected me to leave my disabled 2.5 year old son at the front of the store alone like a dog that you tie up at the corner. " Could someone clarify if this meant inside or outside of the store. It sounded like they were already inside and the front of the store is a nice place to wait--I've instructed my kids to stay in that area while I shopped there. Using the analogy to a dog is pretty harsh and hostile on the mother's part. I do know Ellie and she is much too kind, sensitive and "child-friendly" to suggest leaving a child outside and unattended. I think this has become way too toxic!!

This is dumb. All of you should be happy you have jobs, mind your own business and get back to work. Or if you don't, stop posting about dumb stuff and find a job.

I think it’s sad that a lot of people are passing judgment on Ellie, and her store, without ever meeting her or visiting Ellie’s Choice.

I for one will continue to shop there. I have known her for years and know what she has done for the town and community of Phoenixville.

making mountains out of molehills seems to be a national past time these days. The women apologized and took positive steps to try and avoid this type of situation in the future. what else do you want?

Michael I think it's sad that a lot of people are passing judgement on Amber, and her son, without ever meeting her or getting to know her. And Cindy, Thanks so much for pointing out my typing error. I am certain you have NEVER had a typing error in your life. You must be extremely close to Ellie the way you are defending her and attacking Amber. And Chuck, hope you enjoyed the video that was shared just for your comment. People with disabilities might have limitations, but they do not let them get in their way of accomplishing what they set their sights on accomplishing.

I, too, will continue to shop at Ellie's. I've known her for years and she's always been kind, thoughtful and helpful. Everyone can have a bad day -- she's apologized for the incident.

I work in retail and there are laws about how much space must be allowed for wheel chair access. The laws are there for a reason and to protect all and allow all the same access, as it should be. I highly recommend that Ellie's choice and any other store or restaurant downtown make sure they are handicap compliant. It is the right thing to do.

is phoenixville a lunatic asylum ?

All of these comments attacking amber and her son disgust me. I am from Ohio and can say I am glad I don't have to be a part of what is obviously and ignorant rude town of people. I don't understand how any of you can sit back and say that amber was being unreasonable when you don't understand her situation. I am the mother of a disabled child and can say I would have had a pretty negative reaction too. Those commenting on this seem to be clueless!! Sarcastically asking if she's gonna take him mountain climbing? Who is ThAT insensitive and uneducated to think that someone who is disabled cannot do huge and amazing things!? I'm sure if all of you were suddenly confined to a wheelchair and not able to visit your favorite stores you would raise all sorts of hell. Or worse you would not have the courage to do a single thing about it. I'm not even sure what to say about all of this. This community appalls me! Ellie may be great and she may have limited space to work with but this situation was handled as it should have been and her original explanation of the incident is ridiculous. From an outsiders view this is just crazy.....

Nobody is attacking anyone. I was only pointing out that, beyond an apology and efforts to make changes to her store, nothing else should be demanded and that Amber should STOP attacking Ellie.

Ellie, I did a quick search on the laws on compliance for small businesses and quickly found this link. Maybe you would like to look into it. There are tax incentives for small businesses to help you make your shop my accessible to people with disabilities. You stated that you would like it to be easier to access, perhaps this will be the answer you were looking for.

http://www.ada.gov/taxincent.htm

Jennifer: That apology sounded just fine to me. Maybe Amber would like a pound of flesh to go with it? Amber is the type of customer that goes into a store and sees herself as a little god, just daring anyone to offend her. This is celebration time for someone like her. A CAUSE! YAY! A TORCH TO HOLD! YAY! And guess who became the abuser? Amber! Hanging on to Ellie's jugular like a rabid dog. Have fun. I'm outta here."

Where I come from this is a rude remark that is considered verbally attacking someone. Maybe here we are still old fashioned in some senses but I prefer it that way. There's a way to say what u want to with out blowing it out of proportion. In this whole string of conversation you have become the "abuser" that u claim amber is. You are obviously no better. Your attacks and comments remind me of the Endless teeanage drama on Facebook. It is sickening to see all of this. I have no further comments on the situation and hope you all come to a better understanding for those with disabilities and find some maturity.

Well said Leigh!

Maturity would have been to accept Ellie's apology and let it go. ;)

Wow. Regardless of what happened between Amber and Ellie, some of the attitudes expressed here are disgusting. If ignorance was classed as a disability, none of you would be allowed in Ellie's Store.
Well done Amber
P.S. I love your amended response Ellie. Much more politically correct than the first.

For anyone who thinks Im part of the "friends" of Ellie who they declare are all the defenders here. I can say I do not recall that I have ever been in her store nor do I know her. I also do not know the Amber person. But I would vote in favor of the store owner becuase I see this as a huge overblown event. I say to all those people out there who think that they are "entitled" to special accomodations. Get real !!! Not everyplace you go is going to be able to accomadate your special needs. specially some of these really old buildings and stores. This is not "a personal attack" this is life. So enjoy the places that are accomadating but dont battle the ones that arent because its not worth the frustration. Plus some of these old small stores in sad looking buildings are no doubt barely scraping by and to start building ramps and special bath rooms and bigger ailses etc etc would be a finanacial hardship that would no doubt put some of them out of business. and while we are on this topic gee wizz Im going to have to go see this store Now since its become a "local landmark" thanks to this newe article.

I just don't get the problem here and why this has become such an issue and gone VIRAL-- an Ohio person has to slandered the Phoenixville community because a woman is asked to leave the stroller/wheelchair in the front part of the store--which is totally visible to the mother at all time, since the store is so small!! And I don't understand how, in an instant a mother could feel so aggressive and hostile, saying her child is being treated like a dog (where did that come from??). I am sure the 2.5 year old was not disappointed that he could not experience the tight isles, other than he couldn't grab anything. Everyone has to make concessions to different situations. If you go in a store and it's too tight, you leave. You don't have an attitude and go ballistic!! Sounds like the mother has the handicap! Ellie's Choice does not have to change--so, I guess Pottstown's the place to stay & shop, where the experience is much better!

"enjoy the places that are accommodating?"

How insulting.

ps...Merry Christmas to all, because, "in GOD we trust"

I read Ellie's letter and comments with interest as I too have a small retail business. Annette Brennan provide a link to the ADA which I went to and started reading other pages. this I found interesting: http://www.ada.gov/regs2010/smallbusiness/smallbusprimer2010.htm :

"People with mobility, circulatory, or respiratory disabilities use a variety of devices for mobility. Some use walkers, canes, crutches, or braces while others use manually-operated or power wheelchairs, all of which are primarily designed for use by people with disabilities. Businesses must allow people with disabilities to use these devices in all areas where customers are allowed to go."

This whole story has been blown out of proportion to say the least. The Building that Ellie is in is covered under the Grandfather law. This mother believes in supporting local businesses but yet she is lives in Pottstown. I suggest to the mother that there are other stores like Ellies in Pottstown that she can shop at. For that matter Coventry Mall is probably at this girls back door. Ellie has always been a person to follow the law and one to see Phoenixville move in the right direction with the revitalization of the town. Since she is covered under the Grandfather law and she has formally appologized this should be the end of the story!

okay I unchecked that box below I hope my email will no longer be filled with these comment updates.

I believe it would be more helpful if you all perhaps met for coffee and debated rather than the verbal jousting here.

I have been following this story from the beginning and have hesitated to respond to any of the mindless banter on this site and others. Alas, I can no longer resist. First and foremost, I am overwhelmed by the violent reaction of Amber. WOW. Her need to be "heard" and be "right" is painful to witness. It makes me feel awkward FOR her. Stop beating this dead horse! It is over.

That having been said, I will beat a horse of my own.

Even though there have been so many respondents that have had a lively discussion among themselves and the same things have been said over and over...and over.

I feel the need to put my two cents in: To the people that are defending children with disabilities who do not "appear" to have them - should we start treating EVERYONE like they have disabilities since we don't know just from looking at them? That's reverse discrimination. If I have to take my two year old out of a stroller and carry him-can't you take your child out of a wheelchair? I am a supporter of equal rights for everyone and to Amber, I am sorry that you FELT discriminated. But, she has apologized, there is no more that you can expect. Making this huge ordeal about this situation has completely turned me off from wanting to help people like you.

Virtual high fives all around to people who are siding with Ellie.

Also, no one is impressed by your multiple "features" in the Phoenix-I was in there for a basketball game in 6th grade. Get over it. Richard-great idea

Heather-you and all others who responded in defense of Ellie, and all who are just trying to manage in this crazy world, are right to take offense to this crazy tirade. Amber's behavior was totally out of line. BUT, after seeing her picture in the Phoenix with her son, being gifted that tricylcle, I realize this can all be attributed to her youth, immaturity and the tremendous lot she has been dealt in life. She must be overwhelmed with the responsibility and itsmagnitude, and is just trying to manage a normal life. I am certain that she is receiving a lot of assistance and sometimes, if not careful, one can start feeling "entitled"--many times they are even told they are entitled! I think she just needs more time, to start balancing it all--the respnsibility, the entitlement, respect and gratitude.

I think that all of you need to understand a mother's desire (and right for that matter) to have her child treated like every other child. As a mother of a child with a disability, it is heart breaking to hear your child "can't" do something or something is off limits to them.

There is nothing wrong with a world that is accepting and welcoming to people of all abilities or differences. Something we should all strive for.

ohhh, there's no husband? great! No no no, don't worry. The taxpayer will foot the bill and provide for your lack of responsible behavior. You just keep doing your job of being angry at society. LOL

Wow. This whole thing is amazing. Talk about outa control! Well here's some more fuel for an ADA fire: how about all the NEW curb cuts being put in all over the state (country?), replacing previous curb cuts that apparently didn't meet ADA standards....THAT GO NOWHERE???? I have seen them lead into cornfields, marshlands, and deadends where no sidewalks exist, and places where even a full-abled person wouldn't expect to be walking. I'm told these curbs cost us taxpayers $8000 PER CORNER. (Boy, do I hope I'm wrong.) I believe in supporting those with disabilities--but there also has to be a limit on how far we go to support a small % of people. I mean really-- is someone taking their wheelchair on a country stroll into the cornfield??? Where there were no sidewalks-- only highway shoulders-- leading up to the curbs? Talk about gov't spending (and ADA rules) gone wild. No wonder we have a deficit.

LocalGirl; You wrote: "I believe in supporting those with disabilities--but there also has to be a limit on how far we go to support a small % of people."

More than 50 million Americans – 18% of our population – have disabilities, and each is a potential customer. http://www.ada.gov/regs2010/smallbusiness/smallbusprimer2010.htm

Some of you People really should be ashamed of yourselves. Beyond disgusting to read some of these comments. You would feel different if it was you or someone you loved. Ask yourself what would Jesus do? Yeah that's right you probably don't believe in him just like you don't believe in equal treatment for everyone. Pathic!! How dare you attack Amber personally.

Tell them ,Glenette.Most only care about themselves and those who they know. I bet if they were some graffiti written on the walls downthere, some would have a sissyfit.Or cigs butts on the ground they would go nuts.What really matters , most dont care...What would Jesus do ? he would help them all.

Ike, as a non Christian, am I not a "Jesus believer" but still, yes, help them all. I agree 100%. Amber is not out to cut throats and does not feel "entitled" to things. Yes it was great that her son was gifted the tryke. Yes it was great she was in the paper a few times. All those times were for a single reason, to raise awareness about pediatric stroke. I can't tell you how many times I have met people who never knew that babies and children and even unborn babies have strokes too. It happens. It sucks but, it is reality. So don't bash her for spreading awareness. There is someone reading those news articles that will one day be thankful they read it. As for the rest, the bashing is unecessary. Most of you don't even know Amber personally nor do you know Ellie. Some of you do. Do not ASSUME you know them and know how they are or what their personality is like. All of you bashing people with disabilities, SHAME ON YOU! I pray that you never have to face being disabled, or having a family member who is disabled. I pray that your eyes are opened to the amazing things that people with disabilities can and do accomplish. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good. Love the people who treat you right and pray for the ones who don't.

Amber is teaching her son nothing more than to celebrate and wallow in the slightest offense. Jesus never needed anything more than a "forgive me, Lord" to do exactly that, so let's just nuke that argument right out of the gate.

Amber, MAN UP and show your son how to overcome things, rather than wallow in them. I'll admit you are a GREAT wallower, but he doesn't need that. More is caught than is taught when it comes to kids. Feel for them by showing them how to keep their dignity.

Jennifer you really think people make Amber's life worse by saying she should accept an apology and move on? Interesting.....

Yes , keep it on topic.Son, why are you allways following me around on here.Stalking me ,monitoring me via the internet.Calling me names. Evey comment i make , you got to say something about me.Maturity COMES WITH AGE so be PATIENT.Son i could care less about you.Now please stop buggin me.As for Amber , you sound like a great mother, now lets just put this behind and go on doing what you do.Best wishes to you.

Young man, iam retired from the same town you now call home.
There you go again,stalking me , insulting me , dont be an anrgy young man.
I hope you were lucky enough to land a job before all went overseas.But the way you are ALLWAYS COMMENTING ON EVERYTHING I COMMENT ON , IT LOOKS LIKE YOU DIDNT.With all the time you have do some volunteer work.
Yo ,yo with age comes maturity , with that comes wisedom , than maybe you wont be anrgy at the world.I suggust to you do some volunteer work at the Manor or Senior center, or the Johnson home.You will lean alot about life
But now please leave me alone, stop calling me names , stop stalking me via the internet.My comments are just that ,mine opinion, if you dont like ,fine .BUT STOP WITH THE NAME CALLING.I might be old , but iam not dead..THIS WILL BE THE LAST TIME I REPLY TO YOUR IMMATURE name calling and insults.. thank yall

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yThJm7Wv7Q
People need to see that individuals with disabilities.....all people....just want to be free. We want to be free to do and live....and shop....in the same places as all Americans. Having a store be inaccessible to all is wrong. Amber...and all mothers of children with disabilities have a dream. We dream of the day when our children will not be segregated, where they will not be discriminated against. You must see how this relates to Dr. King and his dream. We must think about the words we use and the actions we take. Thank you!

Can we end this debate today...a day where we should be kind, and respectful to each other!

This dialog should not have included any issue concerning handicap, or disability. There is a store policy in place, the terms clearly displayed. The owner asks and expects EVERYONE who enters the establishment to observe this policy--no exception=no discrimination!!! =no incident.

Amber 100% is the one who should have issued an apology-for deciding this does not apply to her, for breaking those rules and then creating a scene and causing stress and drama. I have no clue why Ellie apologized, except she is such a kind and sensitive person and saw a need to defuse a hostile person.

Ellie, take your apologie back!! I apologize that you had to experience and deal with such an ignorant person.

Lets respect each other!! Stop making this a campaign for handicap- trying to make this incident an afront against the disabled or against this poor 2.5 year old boy--he had nothing to do with this incident!!! It's the mother who decided the rules shouldn't apply to her!!! If you don't like the rules go somewhere else--easy enough!!!

Apologize, Amber, and move on!!!

ellie is good.