Thanks, Rachel. I hadn't thought of that, about changing the center of gravity. But in an emergency, if I need to be pushed, I can't be pushed sitting forward, because there's no place to put my feet, and I'm too weak to hold them up. Maybe I can have my husband weld on some foot props in front or something.

I know that the completely responsible thing to do would be to get a wheelchair...it's just that it's hard to let go of the little independence I have left.

Abby

Abby, I totally understand not wanting to let go!
We pushed my mother on her's many a time, it is a very handy thing to have around. I keep her's in my SUV as a "just in case" I too have trouble in the stores. So I'll take any help I can get at this point. I've also thought about a travel chair, sometimes there aren't enough scooters around when you need them!
Your husband is so talented, I'm sure he could weld something for you! He made that fantastic rickshaw, it's so great I tell people about it all the time!

Keep inspiring! You have so much to share with others!
Rachel

Abby, I'm glad you got your sticker. I've had mine for years now. It helps so much, especially in the summer and winter. I don't realize how bad off I am until I try to walk around a store.

Good points, Rachel.

There are lightweight scooters, that can fold up into a car! Your insurance might pay for one. There's no way I could wheel myself in a wheelchair. While I like the idea of a rollator or other walkers, my arms get way too tired.

Yeah, that rickshaw is super cool. You're lucky to have such a great and talented husband.

Annie

Wow, you all are really hitting the nail on the head for me with this discussion...

I am really thinking I need to get out of denial about how limited I am and ask for what I need right now. I mean, this weakness and lack of stamina may be a temporary issue but it is significant at the moment. My husband drops me off and picks me up at the door everywhere we go right now. If I had to do this on my own, it would absolutely be impossible. I am self-employed and have worked next to zero hours a month over the last year. If I had to work, I couldn't but since I am self employed and there is no impact, I have just avoided the fact that I have not had the stamina to do it. Maybe if I could conserve more energy, I would have more stamina to do the things I need or want to do. And people probably don't have a clue in my case, including my neuro....hmmmmmmm

Abby, thanks for getting the word out. You are a trailblazer : )

debra

Debra,

Evidently, the best way for me to understand something myself is to tell other people. How convoluted is that?!?

I think that is just it: since our symptoms are so variable, we tend to dismiss them. Yes, I'm weak, but I'll be stronger soon, so this weakness somehow doesn't count...

Thanks,

Abby