I'm glad you brought that up because I forgot to mention that and it's really important. Whenever we go shopping where I'm not sure they have a a wheelchair available, I take my smaller wheelchair which I can maneuver around very easily. It's been my 'pal' sense the beginning BUT it's a junior size and very hard for Jack to push for any length of time. I can whiz around in it like a kid. And it is also the easiest to fold up and takes less room in the trunk. BUT if we travel where we know Jack will have to push me we take the larger one that is taller, has larger tires (air filled), and is much, much easier on him. If you need a transport chair, they probably have one as every time we have checked in at the airport, we have been asked that. I'm okay as long as I hang onto the seat backs as I go down the aisle.
We call ahead and let the airline know (if we're traveling like that) and they will often meet us at the plane and wheel us right to the next stop and right up to the front of the line so we can be all ready to board early. We check it in and at the door of the plane they will put it in baggage and usually have it waiting for us when we get off the plane. Now with the walker or cane, you can check the walker in so you can have it when you get where you want. The cane can go in the luggage storage above your seat and if you need it to go to the bathroom, they will get it down for you. They are all so good and attentive to your needs, it is amazing. I never, ever ask for anything more than what I actually need, not even to check in early! They just know it takes longer for us sometimes and want to streamline our checkin. While I was nursing, I was always more worried about the small wheeled walkers even tho they are the most popular because of the cost. The larger wheeled, I feel, are more stable and I really like the ones where you can sit if you have to wait very long as long as you can 'feel' your bottom otherwise you will slip right off because the seat is not very large. I saw one in Costco for about $110 just Monday but like you said, you can sometimes find things like these on Craig's List. I always ask for a handicapped room where 'usually' they have a larger room and a shower where you can wheel your chair right into it and there are more safety bars. You have done some great checking and talk about things I've never heard of! Wow! So much depends on what is easiest for the trip there and home but mostly so you can enjoy your time there and make wonderful memories without being uncomfortable. We've learned a lot the hard way. Carry anything you need for your TM onboard and since you will be sitting probably more than normal and if that makes your pain level go up, you may need a backup on your normal meds. I hope I helped a bit and didn't miss anything important?? Just have a better than wonderful time and take pictures for us?? Hugs. Jeanne -------Original Message------- From: ptpatti200...@aol.com Date: 3/25/2009 9:10:28 AM To: tmic-list@eskimo.com Subject: [TMIC] Jeanne What a story! You couldn't make that up if you tried and I think it's better (or worse) than anything I've seen on "House". Your miracle is that you lived long enough to get to the right hospital and that they started you on steroids. Thanks for sharing the details. You brought up the subject of maneuverability and I need help dealing with it. I decided it was time to go to Washington DC - a long-time desire of my hubby and myself. I always use a cane and have a wheelchair that I loaned out a year ago, but could get back. I quit wearing my AFO after two years because my feet burn and I prefer to wear shoes that I can take off every time I sit down (even in public.) I looked pitiful sitting with my brace beside me letting my feet breathe. So, I will need to use a walker and/or be pushed in a wheelchair in Washington and am concerned about my hubby lifting the chair in and out of our car. I have looked at 3 wheeled walkers that would be easier to maneuver in crowds, 4 wheeled walkers of all kinds, a 4 wheeled that turns into a transport chair ($400), and just a simple transport chair itself A transport chair is a wheelchair for being pushed in, with (4) ten-inch wheels instead of the large wheels on the back for self-maneuvering. The transport chair ! is about 12 lbs. lighter than my wheelchair and would be easier to get into my small car. The 4 wheeled walker that turns into a wheelchair is $400 on-line. A transport wheelchair is $200 at Walmart. I can buy a 3-wheeled or a 4-wheeled walker for $50 each on Craigslist. What would YOU take to Washington DC? What will I need? How will I feel using one for the first time? I DON'T want to have to use any of them! I'm ANGRY! Patti - Michigan Need a job? Find employment help in your area.
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