Should I mention my disability?

[getmba2011]

At lease one MBA application is asking "Do you have a disability (a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities)?"

I suffer from spinal stenosis, a degenerative back disease that has caused me to have back surgery before the age of 25. I currently have 4 herniated disks, am in constant pain, and have been told there is nothing I can do to remedy the problem. As I go through life, more and more of the disks will herniate. I may have surgery again, but each operation will only work to prevent temporary pain, and not solve my actual root problem.

So should I tell the adcoms? While my problem is not causing a delay in my application, I am laid up from work several times throughout the year. Despite this, I have succeeded and been promoted. While I do not want to sound weak or whiny, I am proud of myself for doing what I have considering my condition.

Many thanks in advance!

[papgust]

I salute your courage and confidence that keeps you moving forward in life despite many problems you face. In my opinion, it is safe that you describe your problem in that essay which may portray your honesty and straight-forwardness to the adcoms. Maybe some expert can chip in and advice.

[hman768]

I whole heartedly agree with papgust and congratulate you for overcoming your health issues. What you described sounds perfect for all the optional essays. My only advice would be to be careful to frame it in a way that it clearly has to do with your work and abilities in business school.