Could all of this be because we're far more separated from death in our daily lives nows? My understanding is that 150-200 years ago, people saw people die. They had to clean and care for the bodies themselves. They would have natural decomposition. Now, the only people who really see that are our soldiers. Our lives are much easier now, all things considered.

So, if you aren't used to seeing death and disease, it would be more shocking, I'd wager.

I'm suprised that no one realises that there are many people who using wheelchairs who CAN use their legs. They just might have difficulty standing for long periods, have dizzy spells etc.