Telephones are so useful, and yet such a barrier. Dial directly between computers with a basic terminal program. Use a telephone relay service where humans transliterate between typed and spoken text. Use a real-time text message tool like AOL Instant Messenger, ICQ, IRC, or even text pagers. Cindy has gathered a wide range of resources useful to those curious about interpreting .
Impairments can be invisible.
If you don't use a wheelchair or similar badge of difference, many people just won't understand how they're disabling you. If you have a low-incidence impairment, your primary care physician may be stumped. The National Organization for Rare Disorders can help you figure out where to find medical info. Invisible Illnesses and Disabilities Ongoing discussion on the Invisible-Disability mailing list. The FAT FAQs answer many questions.