And to those that don't know Kim personally....this girl rocks!!! She is an
amazing woman that inspires me. Yes I am able to walk 99% of the time, but
being with Kim I see how much anyone with TM can do if they just keep a
positive attitude and keep trying. I am not saying just because you have a
positive attitude you will be able to walk again, but what I am saying is you
can do so much from a chair!!!
Jenna
________________________________
From: "[EMAIL PROTECTED]" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: Pieter and Heather <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; jrushton <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>;
[EMAIL PROTECTED]; tmic <tmic-list@eskimo.com>
Sent: Tuesday, November 18, 2008 9:04:26 PM
Subject: Re: [TMIC] GOOD NEWS!
I had to give up my "mid-lfe crissis" a red convertable mustang.. (yep stick
shift)... was hard looking at mini vans but found the Honda Element was a
perfect fit. and with the left foot accerator I can go anywhere I want anytime!
-------------- Original message from "Pieter and Heather" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>:
--------------
Yes Kim I agree with you about how easy it is to put on and off. Even I can
put it on if my husband forgets to put it back after he has driven. I need to
put a mat on the floor of the garage, get on my hands and knees (not easy) and
manœuvre it in place. I have perfected the technique now and it only takes a
couple of minutes.
I went to be tested at the hospital first as my Physiatrist thought I would
need hand controls. However, once tested on a computerized machine at the
hospital they said that 'left-foot accelorator' would work for me that is what
I did.
We had it installed in our car - a Chrysler 300M 2003 model - did this in fall
of 2005 and it cost us $285.00 here in Calgary. Then in 2006 we bought a brand
new Honda Odyssey Touring van and the Honda company covered the cost to put it
on that vehicle. If you happen to be buying a new vehicle most companies have
some sort of $$ amount that you are allowed for conversion for disability
purposes. I know at the time that Honda's limit was up to $1000.00. Every
little bit helps.
I too had to be tested and now have special codes on my licence for 'left foot
accelorator' and 'automatic transmission'.
I love the freedom of being independent in that respect. I did this so that
our insurance would still cover us. Also I worked since 1981 up until I got TM
with the Alberta Motor Vehicle department in one capacity or another so knew
the rules and regulations (currently on LTD) Didn't want to get caught up in
problems if in an accident.
Heather in Calgary
----- Original Message -----
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
To: Pieter and Heather ; jrushton ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; tmic
Sent: Tuesday, November 18, 2008 1:04 PM
Subject: Re: [TMIC] GOOD NEWS!
I also use a "Left-Foot Accelorator, (left leg is dumb but has mussle control)
right leg has no musscle control) I had to take a driving assesment course from
Shepherd Center in Atlanta and keep certificate in my car. It is very easy to
apply to and disconect when an able bodied person wishes to drive and much
cheaper than hand controls
-------------- Original message from "Pieter and Heather" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>:
--------------
Jeanne,
Have you thought of getting a 'left-foot accelorator'? I had to do that so I
could get my licence again It is an ingenious and simple device. Takes a
little while to wrap your head around the concept of using your left foot for
everything. The regular gas pedal is covered by a metal cage.
Heather in Calgary
----- Original Message -----
From: jrushton
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; tmic
Sent: Tuesday, November 18, 2008 8:23 AM
Subject: Re: [TMIC] GOOD NEWS!
Hello, dear Jude! I just read your note to Terry about walking with no
sensation to the feet? Such exciting and wonderful news!!
That is how I walk and it is true about having to watch your feet. At home I
don't so much since it's more comfortable but I still fall into the walls
often. I also can drive but have to wear white shoes so I can see them in a
hurry or with my peripheral view. I've had to slam on the brakes for deer and
other drivers and it is sure amazing how that can work when the foot and leg
that I use to drive also happens to be the weakest and the one I drag the
most!!! Our bodies are amazing!
Even if you can't e-mail us, we will still be thinking of and praying for
you!!! j
