We were able to relax and enjoy each others company.
We went down to Bournemouth at the beginning of the week, partly to visit some of Martin's family, but also to go and visit the Bournemouth air show. It was a lovely day out on Bournemouth beach. The planes were absolutely awesome and we got some wonderful photos, as you can see!!
The only down side to the day, was the fact that I hadn't taken a wheelchair. We ended up walking quite a long way and that caused me quite a bit of pain. By the time we got back to the park & ride bus, I could hardly walk. It has made me realise that maybe I need to get a wheelchair for occasions like that. I am coming across situations like that more and more, so maybe it is time to be realistic, instead of burying my head in the sand!!
I am also struggling using my crutches, at the moment. Because I am still experiencing a lot of pain in my right hand and arm. I am finding that it is hurting me to use my crutches for too long. The pressure I put on that hand is causing additional pain to me, so using a wheelchair would help alleviate that.
I haven't returned to work yet. It is disappointing, but I am coming to the conclusion that it is the best thing for me, right now. I have been finding, that going to work has been quite stressful and I know that stress doesn't go well together with MS!!
It is difficult to come to these realizations and for everyone it will be different. I have found it quite tough to think about things like using a wheelchair and resting to help conserve my energy.
I guess it is actually coming to terms with the fact that I have a chronic illness, that has changed my life. It is about dealing with that in the best way possible and finding ways to give myself the best quality of life that I can.
Everyone will deal with these issues in their own time and for some it will be easier to deal with than others. For me, I think it is taking a bit longer than I would like!!
I hope everyone enjoyed the Bank Holiday weekend and remain happy and stress free!!
XxXxX
Currently, I don't use any kind of walking aid. However, in my garage, right by the car...hangs my grandmothers walker...she willed it to me over a year ago. It serves as a constant reminder that SOMEDAY, I may need it.
ReplyDeleteComing to terms with the fact that resting is something I must do, has been super frustrating to me as well. Accepting that you have a chronic illness is super difficult, and something I'm also struggling with lately. Thanks for posting about this...
ReplyDeleteI've been struggling with that myself, since 1995, with CFS. Sometimes, I have to carry a cane because I may need it and I feel stupid carrying it when I don't need it and other times I need it and don't have it with me. Right now, I can't work and don't know if I ever will, but if I think of it that way, it depresses me. So, I just keep believing I will, whether or not that is unrealistic.
ReplyDeleteIt does come down to saving your energy for arriving and not spending it all on getting there.
ReplyDeleteIf you do go for a chair try to get a good fit and as easy to use as possible- we got an obsolete piece of cast iron when Herrad first needed it and it made our life much harder than it needed to be. Herrad could barely move her self and I found it had a turning circle like a supertanker. We lived in the old inner city and the cobblestones and hump back bridges (and millions of tourists) left me knackered after a short walk.
They aint cheap by the way! I could get a top of the range mountain bike for what we paid for Herrad's chair and I think it is probably redundant now!
I know it is a big shock to an independent person suddenly needing help with the things you took for granted. I hope wheelchairs remain a peripheral part of your life but for big days out with a lot of walking a good light weight folder could be a very good thing.
Thanks for your comment on my blog- and she is a bit better today. Hooray!
It is always difficult, I think, to take on board anything which affects your ability to move about easily and independently. When I first got my walking stick I hated it... it made walking slower (but safer!) and I felt that it 'labelled' me.
ReplyDeleteThat said it has made walking and standing easier for me. So I guess if you can bring yourself to, then you must do whatever is right for you.
Just a thought but since you are looking at a chair for only temporary respite needs at this time, look around at the previously owned or used market for a lightweight folding wheelchair. Something to take along 'just in case'.
ReplyDeleteCaregivingly Yours, Patrick
http://caregivinglyyours.blogspot.com/
Hi Amelia,
ReplyDeleteMobility aids are worrying but better that than other worries like being too tired or in pain. Agree with Richie conserve your energy for your destination.
Have a good day tomorrow with Martin.
Thinking of you.
Love,
Herrad
ps there are also elbow crutches
Hi everyone!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comments, they are all appreciated.
I am using elbow crutches at the moment, in fact I couldnt manage without them!
I have looked into buying a wheelchair - on eBay. But I have been told to see if I can get one through an occupational therapist?
It is a tough one though - do I really need one or am I just being lazy??
Hugs to you all XxXxX
you are entitled to one from OT.ask.in fact theres so much you can get.why buy?hope you dont need it but if you do,use it.love mort x
ReplyDeleteAmelia, I had to get over the "embarrassment" of having to use a wheelchair when I go places that require me to "walk" a lot. It's either that or I just can't DO things with people who want to go places with me because I CAN'T walk around like to used to. I found a new one online at a real discount (not eBay) although that's where I normally look first too! I now keep it in the back of my car so I'll always have it with me. xo xo xo
ReplyDeletenice posting keep blogging,
ReplyDeletethese pictures are awesome!