If you are disabled and require a medical device to get around ( knee scooter, wheel chair or any such device ) you are not welcome to be a customer at IHOP. Today I experienced discrimination simply trying to get out of the house for a short period of time . Scott (the host and Assistant Manager) advised me as we sat down that I would need to insure my knee scooter was out of the way. I stated I would do my best. As we were finishing up he came up to me and said I need you to move that so I can put a high chair at this corner booth. .... 1) I had the scooter up against the table I was at 2) there were other tables empty that would have also accommodated a high chair 3) another family had previously sat at the table while we were there and didn't have an issue.
I advised him in a not so friendly manner that we were leaving . He had the audacity to ask me if there was a problem. So true to my standards I advised him that yes there was and that apparently he has had an issue with me being there with this walker since I walked in. His response ........ " It is a fire hazard mam ". So I advised him that the ADA authorities would be advised and that they would be in touch. This battle won't be about me and my temporary condition this will be about those that stay home and don't even bother trying to get out who have permanent disabilities and are made to feel like I feel right now . As for IHOP before they spend money changing the last letter of their acronym I suggest they get some sensitivity training and learn the law.
UPDATE: I did receive a call from the regional office that I didn't expect to hear from on a Sunday afternoon. George assured me that he would look into the situation and provide training regarding these matters.