[Junker]

A one- year – agreement for home office equipped with furniture and technical facilities suitable for disabled individuals enabled me to stay in my banking job for the time being.

Making use of a rollator walker increased my mobility. It seemed a kind of weird at the beginning, but it soon provided me with enough security to take care of medical appointments, shopping or administrative tasks on my own. Irrespective of my weak appearance being reliant on it, the rollator amplified my facilites and became a real game changer.

[Leigh]

I couldn’t live without a shower chair and Non-invasive ventilator. If I’m having a flare then I use a rollator but I often resist it even if I need it. I use it more at home and only in public if absolutely necessary. I feel embarrassed by all the stares. I am 44 and look younger. I would rather stay home but that’s my preference. I am just now ok using a handicap placard although I only do about 30% of the time but it has been a complete lifesaver many many times.

[Jodi]

Leigh, thank you for being so honest about the emotional side of using aids and handicap permit. That discomfort with stares do doubt cause a lot of discomfort and anxiety. I’m really glad the placard has helped, even if it’s just part-time. Your post will resonate with a lot of others -Jodi, Patient Advocate

[stovia]

I always take my rollator walker with me. It helps me with my balance. It also has a seat l use if l am hit with sudden fatigue.

[DailyDroop20]

I have a lot of accommodations that allow me to still contribute to my family despite not being able to work. Where I struggle is with finding accommodations that allow me to socialize outside of the house. One thing I found recently is a neck pillow with a sling that helps hold my head up when I sit somewhere without a headrest. I just tried it at my daughter’s basketball game and it works pretty well. It’s called the Dreamsling and it’s sold on Amazon. I haven’t been to a restaurant in years because holding my head up in their chairs along with all the reading and talking and eating was too difficult. I’m gonna try again soon with this pillow. Should be fun as long as I don’t choke!

[Jodi]

Your advice about the Dreamsling is really helpful. It’s encouraging to hear it worked well at your daughter’s game! I really hope the restaurant outing goes smoothly and gives you even a small sense of normalcy. I personally know how debilitating the neck pain and weakness can be. Cheering you on every step of the way. -Jodi, Patient Advocate

[bbnkansas]

I use a cane almost all the time; a walker/rollator is used often; handrails in the bathroom; hacks to help open lids and caps on bottles/jars; determine a specific path to maneuver thru a store to save physical energy; use essential oil blends to help relieve muscle pain; and always plan a rest stop no matter what I am doing. Occupational therapy taught me many, many hacks that have made life easier.

[Jodi]

Thank you for sharing all of this. It’s clear how much thought and effort you’ve put into creating ways to function effectively. I love that occupational therapy gave you practical tips that you continue to be able to apply. I hope others consider giving it a try -Jodi, Patient Advocate