I was trying to enter the medical laboratory in Lower Hutt, to obtain a blood test.

The entrance door is heavy and I could not open it with my disabled hands and arms.

This is the third time I have experienced this at the lab - the degree of my disability can vary. I previously complained, but nothing has changed.

I had to wait for another customer to spot me and help me enter the laboratory, which is very embarrassing.

I want the new access laws to specify that health facilities should have a higher standard of access, which takes into account wider accessibility needs and challenges, beyond those using wheelchairs. I'm a walker and I have access needs too.

This is a story about the barriers many face. We're sharing it because we want a law that puts accessibility at the heart of an inclusive Aotearoa New Zealand.

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