Wheelchairs 101

Relief! Signified by a definite lessening of stress; I can really, actually, physically feel it. Kinda like being able to take a deep breath.

The 'Seating Specialist' from the Dealer spent over 2 hours here this morning 'tweaking' my new wheelchair! The cushion and back have now been configured to ME! Fits like a glove...

(For those of you who haven't spent time in a chair; it's like a prosthesis, becomes part of you. Don't EVER grab, or try to move, someone's chair without asking! It would be like me walking up and grabbing your arm and pulling on you to move you to a different spot on the floor! Rude huh?)

So I FINALLY, after almost 6 months, really have 'WORKING WHEELS' again! I've had it two weeks now, and have actually been to two doc appointments using it, though it hadn't been 'configured', nor had the electronics been 'tweaked'.

Now, I need to get some accessories; stuff I need that will help to make it 'functional'. Unfortunately, ALL the bags, baskets, side-bags I have laying around here (and that's a LOT, years worth!), NONE fit this smaller more compact chair! (Of course!). I also need stick on reflectors, a clip on flashlight, and a cup and holder (the old one broke).

Look through your car, dash, etc, and that's the kinds stuff I need to carry for the 'day' on my wheelchair.

I was hoping to start shopping tomorrow, as it will take some time to find just the 'right' stuff that 'fits', but rain is in the forecast, so it will have to wait. I immediately need two new bags for the back; one for the bottom, thermal, for groceries. And one on the top for 'daily' stuff, rain gear, gloves, reacher, thermos, etc. Also need one bag for 'arm' to hold important stuff, like keys & ciggies, but that can wait!

Most of this stuff is available online at the 'disability' sites. But I prefer the bicycle departments of local discount stores. If it will work on a bicycle, it will usually work on a wheelchair. Besides, you can touch it, check the fabric, how the straps work, etc.

But this 'stuff', though needed, is just icing on the cake. Right this minute, I could take off out the door if I needed to go somewhere (20 mile limit unless I want to carry along the small, light weight charger). Or if I just wanted to go out and watch the night traffic on the street!

Relief. Freedom. Sigh...