Getting a cane

[ScrappinGran]

Hi everyone. I going to ask my Dr. about using a cane, to better steady myself and to give some relief to an arthritic right knee. I sooo don't want to do this, but I am really worried about all the walking I'll be doing next month. My knee feels actually pretty good when I am moving- it's when I stand in one place or try to get up when I've been sitting for awhile. I have actually strengthened it quite a bit, doing a lot of walking and minor hiking in the woods on flat terrain, but the knee does tire easily. Uneven ground hurts! I am a fairly active 55 yr. old woman, and I teach Pre-K, and work year round...so I am moving a lot @ work...but there I can sit down when I need to. I think I just need something to lean on. We leave for our first trip "home" to our new DVC home @ BLT in 39 days, and I am really worried about all the standing still in lines for rides.Any tips, ideas, etc, about this big step for me will be most welcome. Those of you who use a cane, can you give me some advice on how you handle the parks. I don't need a wheelchair or the motorized scooter, just a little help. Thanks!

 

[Nalla]

If you have trouble standing still in lines, you could ask for a GAC at Guest Relations. It will allow you to wait off to the side (sitting, if you need to) instead of in the line.
I use one everytime I go down because I can't stand in lines due to my panic disorder. It's really helpful for me.

I've also seen people at WDW using canes that have a little built in seat thing. So in lines they go, then sit, then go, then sit. Maybe that's an option for you?

 

[ScrappinGran]

Nalla, What is a GAC? Are they available at all parks? I'll have my DH, daughter, son-in-law and 3 grandkids with me. Do I wait til they get to me in line? confused.

 

[Nalla]

Here's the post on GAC's http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=10237514&postcount=6

When I went and used my GAC it was good for everyone in my party.
But I've heard others here use it for an alternative place to sit instead of being in the line.
Hopefully someone who's used it differently then me can answer you on how it works.