I had a hard time emotionally needing a handicap placard and only being 20 years old. The first couple times I opted for the temporary handicap placard because I couldn't accept considering myself "permanently" disabled.
Having the placard though has been a big help. I am more willing to go places because I'm not as concerned about how far away I have to park and it also means I'm not wiped out just getting there.
We have to put up with so much pain with AS, it's nice to get a little special treatment. :-)
