Diane took me to Spaulding rehab today for my wheelchair clinic appointment. I was pretty nervous going in. I had no idea what to expect. I was quickly put at ease by Debra, the physical therapist, and Steve, the assistive technology professional (ATP). They took some measurements, checked my balance and strength and all that fun stuff. And then they had me use a chair so show me how it worked.
I understand the need for a power wheelchair, and I have resigned myself to getting one. But it definitely got me thinking about the benchmarks of my decline. From AFOs and various braces for my hands, to my cane and then the rollator. I’m thankful I don’t yet need to be in a wheelchair full time right now. Since I like to look for the silver linings, I will embrace it as a way to maintain my independence and avoid a fall that could result in some real damage. I’ve been pretty lucky with falls. My worst injury was a separated shoulder. I don’t want to push my luck, because a broken bone or a hit to the head would be very bad.
So I took it all in stride (pun intended) and when Steve told me I could pick a color for the trim of the chair, I chose pink. I’ve decided to call my chair Pinky Tuscadero. My cane in named Candy, and my rollator is called Wheels.
Rise Against ALS! 