The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program was created to encourage inclusivity, acceptance, and understanding for people with hidden disabilities. There is no qualifying list of hidden impairments. The person gets to decide to wear the Sunflower to indicate that you may need extra support, help, or a little more time.
Not all impairments are visible. Some disabilities, conditions, or chronic diseases are not immediately apparent to others; this includes Aphasia. Coping with a hidden disability like Aphasia can make daily life more demanding for many people. In addition, it can be difficult for others to determine, acknowledge, or understand their challenges and determine if they need assistance.
This voluntary program for airport travelers determines hidden special needs by the green Sunflower item they select to wear. The green Sunflower symbol doesn’t focus on the impairment. It activates an airport staff to ask a simple question, ‘How can I assist you?’ and focus on the support or understanding a person needs. By wearing the Sunflower lanyard (or other green Sunflower item), you’re letting everybody know you may need extra help, understanding, or more time.
If you don’t have a hidden impairment but want to support those using this program, do not wear the green Sunflower variety. There is a different type for you, the ‘I support the Sunflower’ variety. Use it to reveal that you comprehend what the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is.
The Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) has chosen to participate in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program to assist people with hidden impairments while traveling through the airport. While this program does not allow for special treatment or expedited service, it is a tip to airport personnel that the guest might require extra help.
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport provides the Sunflower lanyards at no charge for pick-up throughout typical operational hours at the Visitors Center in the baggage claim and the Main Information Booth on the 2nd floor. Travelers are urged to request a Sunflower product to be mailed to them before taking a trip. If you would like to request a Sunflower product, please email community.relations@flysrq.com.
Other regional places, including Tampa International Airport and the Don CeSar Resort in St. Petersburg Beach, offer recognition of the Sunflower lanyard. To find more locations in the U.S. that acknowledge the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower click here: Find the Sunflower.
More details on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program can be discovered here: Sunflower for You. In addition, the webpage has information about assistive hearing devices and available washrooms with caregiver access at the SRQ airport: Disabilities and Special Needs.
