Just a word about walking sticks. The kind found in outdoor stores like REI and eastern mountain sports, hiking poles, have excellent wrist loops. I use one when on level ground like a mall or sidewalk and two on trails. I would have fallen and twisted or broken an ankle many times without these poles. They are lighter than a cane and do not require a constant grip which is impossible for me since hands are affected. They are infinitely adjustable for height, most canes are not long enough for me.

I am unable to immediately know what position my legs are in, the poles help so much with those moments between standing up and regaining control.

Elaine, these are interesting discussions about accepting the disease. For myself, I am just thankful that I was only slightly affected when my children were young. I can easily accept this now that my youngest is 14. I am not sad about eventually needing a wheelchair. I think a lot depends on what kind of life you had before, how independent you were. My husband and I have been mutually dependent since we were 18, and that makes a big difference.