Guest guest Posted January 16, 2000 Report Share Posted January 16, 2000 I have lost most of my ability to walk, let alone hike. I used to hike a lot and I was a cave explorer. Suffice it to say that PLS has had a bit of an impact on what I like to do. So with my inability to walk and my lack of fine motor control I have all the qualifications to be a sack of potato(e)s -- or -- a flatwater kayaker! All you need to do is be able to move your arms, grasp a broomstick (actually, paddles are much larger around than broomsticks, so it's much easier) and sit. While the kayak I have feels a bit " tippy " at first, it really is quite hard to turn over, unlike most canoes I've been in, which may feel pretty stable, but are actually quite easy to capsize. Anyway, I've been places in the Everglades and such that your average non-gimp would never see. Forget the wheelchair accessible boardwalks, I figure if you can get around in a wheelchair you can get around in a kayak. Sorry about ranting about boats so much but it has really, really made a positive difference in my life. You don't have to be big or strong (I only weigh 140, and I stand a good six feet), and you can go as slow as you want. Yeah, I always wear a life jacket (it is required by law in a lot of places) and I have a " paddle leash " so even if I drop my paddle (kayak paddles float) I can haul it back. I used to joke (but say half-seriously now) as long as I stay in my boat and keep my mouth shut no one notices I'm a gimp. If nothing else, some of the stares you get at your local boat ramp when you get out are priceless. Galen Hekhuis, NpD, JFR, GWA ghekhuis@... Voilets are the last refuge of the incontinent Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.