Using a wheelchair

[Guest guest]

I was wondering how many of you here use a wheelchair. I often

don't go out with friends or do things I would like to do because I

am either too tired or I know that there will be a lot of walking

involved and I won't be able to keep up. When coming to terms with

using AFOs, I realized that if the AFOs let me do things I wouldn't

be able to otherwise, then I needed to use them. I starting to

wonder if I'm now at the same point about using a wheelchair

sometimes.

Who here uses a wheelchair? How much do you use it? (full-time,

part-time, long trips, shopping)

Thanks

Lynn

[Guest guest]

Lynn,

I am also a spinal cord damage, and was before I was diagnosed as having

CMT. I was never supposed to walk again but am blessed to be able to do so

even with alot of metal in my body. I have harrington rods, a metal spacer

for L1, and bilateral triple arthrodesis. A wheelchair was something I fought

to get out of but let me tell you, in the airport it is terrific!!!!!!!!!!

I get thru security a lot faster and with alot less hastle. Setting of the

alarm and getting patted down has ceased to be fun LOL.

Candy

[Guest guest]

Lynn, I use a wheel chair when there is so much walking that I know I

will not be able to do it. We live in Florida and when family and friends visit

they want to see Disney, etc. I have my own chair and take it with me. Other

than that, I go at my own pace,shopping, etc and sit when needed. I use a cane

that has a flat bottom and is steadier than any other cane I have used. Have

cane will travel, except to Disney.

[Guest guest]

Hi Lynn.

I don't use a wheelchair as yet (I am 18 yrs), but my AFOs are indeed my true

pals! Anyway, I guess the day I need to use wheelchair, I won't hesitate. What

we have to do, we must.

About going out, I, also have to refuse at times becaus I know I won't be able

to keep up and I don't want to depend on someone to help me, either.

Be happy....

Reema

[Guest guest]

Lynn, I use a wheelchair for mall shopping or any other situation where

I know my legs/AFOs just can't handle the distance. It makes

everyone's life so much easier - it's more comfortable for me and faster

for the people I'm with. If you feel like walking, push your wheelchair

for a bit then ride. The time to use a wheelchair is when your

inability to walk keeps you from doing the things you love to do.

You're not giving in, you're simply adjusting to your changing world.

K.