Since I don’t see this all that often, but part-time wheelchair usage is a thing and these are things I learned as someone who uses a wheelchair part time. (Please add to it if you think of things!)
*Not as many people as you think are watching you get out of your car to walk to where your wheelchair is to get in it.
*Chances are you have only a manual one- this can be hard on your arms. It’s okay to ask for help from someone to push. But it’s just as okay to yell and make a big deal when they push without asking (Then asking them 4 minutes later to push you. Wheelchairs can be emotional things- it’s okay to be emotional.)
*It’s okay to get up from your chair occasional. You don’t have to “pretend” that you can’t get up from your wheelchair. Everyone is different. You don’t owe ANYONE an explanation.
*Don’t be embarrassed about telling family members or friends you need the wheelchair. Chances are they WILL forget. They won’t mean to- but this is new for them and even more part-time for them. It IS okay to insist on bringing the wheelchair. Even on short trips.
* This is an important one I had to learn. IF ITS HARD FOR SOMEONE TO PUSH YOU. Say a hill, or something. DON”T JUST SAY “I feel bad” AND GET UP AND WALK IT. IF ITS HARD FOR THEM TO PUSH YOU. THAT MEANS IT’LL BE JUST AS HARD TO WALK IT. You are in that wheelchair for a reason, don’t feel guilty.
*You are NOT faking. Part-Time wheelchair usage is OKAY to do. You are not exaggerating your symptoms, you are not pretending you are worse than you are. Everyone’s story is different. You do not owe anyone an explanation.
Tips for Part-Time Wheelchair users.
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knitting in the dark 