TikTok star Paul Castle (Matthew and Paul) recently had a dining experience that left a sour taste in his mouth, and not because of the food. In a now-viral video, Paul shares his frustrating encounter with restaurant staff who questioned his blindness and his service dog, Mister Maple.
Emotional Support Dog?
For those unfamiliar with Paul’s story, he’s an artist living with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a condition that’s caused him to lose over 90% of his vision. Legally blind, Paul relies on Mister Maple to navigate the streets. While blindness can manifest in various ways, some, like Paul’s, may not be immediately evident. This doesn’t diminish the very real challenges he faces.
Mister Maple Gets the Cold Shoulder
Paul, like many with service animals, usually has no problem entering establishments with Mister Maple by his side. However, this unnamed Seattle restaurant took a different approach.
@matthewandpaul “This isn’t my first rodeo” 💀 #blind #guidedog #servicedog #storytime
The restaurant staff not only cast doubt on Paul’s blindness but also threatened to call the police when he offered to show documentation for Mister Maple and his condition. Understandably, Paul and his followers were outraged by this insensitive treatment.
Manager reaches out
While the comment section exploded with calls to boycott the restaurant, Paul revealed that the manager reached out, seeking a meeting.
Sadly I really like this restaurant and I don’t want one wmployee’a actions to negatively impact them. I have a meeting with their manager today and I promise an update ❤️
He’s promised to update his followers on the outcome. Here’s hoping for a productive conversation and maybe even a delicious apology for Paul and Mister Maple!
