Before I had status a few years back, I preboarded one time because I had recently broken my big toe. I had to walk pretty slow, and thought it would be best not to be in the middle of the rush. The GA questioned me with a rude attitude, I explained the situation and asked if he'd like to see the toe. He just hmphed and let me go.

It just goes to show you that you might not be aware of people needing some extra help/time.