Lexi Haas has kernicterus, a rare type of brain damage caused by high levels of bilirubin in the blood. The disease caused her to lose control of her motor functions. In extreme cases, it can lead to brain damage and memory loss.
Haas was forbidden from visiting a maritime museum because her wheelchair would "get the carpet dirty," according to her family.
Dr. Ken Haas, Lexi's father, told CBS affiliate WBTV in Savannah, Ga. that his family traveled to Savannah for a weekend trip when they tried to enter the Ships of the Sea Museum. An employee stopped them at the door when they attempted to wheel their daughter in.
"They said wheelchairs are okay, but not hers," Dr. Haas said. "I said, 'But my shoes walk right behind her wheelchair. They've been in exactly the same place!'"
While Haas was allowed to use one of the museum's wheelchairs, her parents said she couldn't use it because her wheelchair has special straps that help hold her up. Her parents said they were told Haas was welcome to sit outside and watch a video while the rest of the family explored the museum.
Wendy Melton, the museum's curator, confirmed the family's story but explained that the employee misunderstood the rules and that although there is an available wheelchair for guests, no one is required to use it.
The museum sent a letter to the family apologizing, and the Haas family doesn't plan on taking legal action.
"They really need to train their staff," Lexi's mom Susan Haas said. "They really do. It's a significant error and a significant departure in the current thinking on disability access.
