“Either I will find a way, or I will make one.” ~ Philip Sidney
I have been bound to my wheelchair for two years. I can no longer safely use a walker or cane. I am also not strong enough to “wall walk” anymore. Therefore, the chair has become an extension of my body, which I rely on 100% to provide me with mobility.
I realize using a wheelchair is not a horrible experience or the end of the world. It’s actually a really good thing. It enables me to get around and be more independent than I would be without it.
But I must admit, since I am always sitting, some days I just want to stand up for a little while. Just to give my backside some relief from the constant pressure. Usually, I only get to stand up when I am transferring to another chair or too lay down. But during a recent visit to my physical therapist, I was introduced to a walking sling.
The sling helps lift me from a seated to a standing position. It provides upper body support and gives me enough freedom of movement to engage in exercises and physical therapy. When I first saw it, I didn’t believe it would actually help me. But it does. My core feels stronger.
When I’m in the sling, I can stand for 20 minutes. Hopefully, as I use it more, I can extend my time even further. I am usually so tired after my session I have to take a nap.
Multiple Sclerosis has taken away so many of my abilities. With the walking sling, I get a chance to stand up to MS. And in my own way, give the disease the finger.
Every day, even though I now can walk, I have to make a choice to get out of bed and stand up to MS. The intestinal fortitude and the FU attitude standing up to MS requires is a feat. You go girl!!!
My story is walking to wheelchair and diapers in about 4 weeks. We go in a chair because it isn’t safe otherwise and then every part of the body we need for standing and walking gets shot because we are in a chair. My sister says they should have warned us, but it is a damned if you do, damned if you don’t. My scooter let me be me in the face of devastating MS but also trapped me.
Nicole,
I love the power of flipping off and standing up to MS! We must strive to fight this everyday and to never give up ! Here is wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving with kind and normal relatives. God Bless You.
So happy that you were able to stand. How often are you able to go to PT? Are you able to do this exercise each time? Wishing you all the best. May you get stronger each time. Thanks for sharing the pics. Happy Thanksgiving
That’s great. I too am confined to wheelchair. About six months ago I was approved to purchase a standing frame. It’s really great to get off your bottom and to strengthen leg muscles, do weight bearing, and to strengthen the core muscles. I stand for about 30 minutes about five times a week. I’ve never seen the device you are using. Good luck!
Sandy That’s great!!!
You are incredibly brave, eloquent in you writing and have such a better attitude then I do. Inspiring. Thank you!
I am laughing so hard about giving MS the finger. I am Physical Therapy and working on my core too. I love your blog
Nicole
I am so happy for you and proud of you. You have been such a positive source of encouragement to me and others. I join you in giving MS the finger. Thank you for your voice!!
How exciting that you get to stand! I feel so thrilled for you and I hope it continuess to strengthen you!
What a great idea Nicole. Thank you again for sharing and inspiring with your consistent efforts to “try again.”. God bless you. 🙂