sassy,

Whatever you decide to do to help the woman, take care of your back first.

I cringed when I saw how you were thinking about pulling her into the car by yourself. My cousin, who was a nurse, has many terrible back problems from lifting patients over 20 years. She is in chronic pain and gets no relief from any pill or surgery.

gonnamakeit

Sassy

My niece, who is a paraplegic and in a wheelchair uses the boards every day to transfer into her car. Hers is plastic, but looks just like the wooden boards that were mentioned.

Not sure what state you are in, but most states have an "Assistive Technology" dept that offers items or grants to help those of us who are disabled. I know here in WA they offer all sorts of items to help with daily living.

I still get around with a cane inside, but use both a power chair and scooter outside the house. My scooter totally collapses and fits in the trunk.

You are a good friend and I hope it all works out!

Take care!
Mo

I never thought of the Assistive Technology Department...we live in Utah and just last Friday were at Utah State University at this department getting the brakes fixed on my honey's wheel chair...

Thanks, never heard of this Assistive Technical Dept but going to check it out!

Sassy,

Here are some resources for AT (assistive technology) broken down by states. I highly recommend this site to everyone. Even if one agency cant help, they can often refer you to the correct one who can-


http://www.resna.org/taproject/at/statecontacts.html

Some other hints:
PT/OT should teach her family how to properly transfer her in different situations, including the car. They can also supply the tranfer board. Garbage bags are great seat material for your "slippery" cover.

In fact, if it is needed therapist can arrange for a hoist/lift with a MD order. There is no excuse for not getting what they need, especially if she is covered by Medicaid. Often what is needed is somone to say "We need X, Y and Z" You could be a great asset to them by helping them demand and fight for what is needed. You sound like a wonderful friend!!!!

Good luck!

Jane

Thank you guys for this AT stuff. Seven years as a self-help group leader and I can't believe I haven't come across this. I plan to share it with my group also.

Lesson I learned a long time ago, when in doubt ASK! Thanks for all the info.

I definitely need to get with her mom and spend the day locating all the help needed for this beautiful young friend of mine!

1. My plan is to find out if she has a social worker, if she doesn't then find out how to get one, if she has one I will ask my friend and her mom if we can all meet with this person and get a plan going to move forward.

2. I am going to print out info from internet (they have no computer) and help mom fill out necessary forms for items from MSAA.

3. Take phone # to mom and have her call NMSS and either inquire herself what would be available or give NMSS permission to talk to me and I will find out what is needed and what is available.

4. I am going to contact Michigan government representatives and advocate for her and others that fall through the cracks.

5. I am going to print out the AT info and see if any of this could help now and in the long run

6. In the meantime I am going to try the garbage bag or tarp if needed to help transfer her.

7. Go to our local VFWs to see what they have available.

8. Ask great friends to help me add to this list. LOL, thanks