MS and need mobility device advice

[tinkerfan1]

I posted something a while back asking about rollators. The closer we get to our trip, the more I'm beginning to think that a rollator may not be enough. We've been walking at the track in the evenings. I'd been using a cane when we walked. I start out walking somewhat normal. Perhaps I look a tad bit drunk if you didn't know me. A lap or two later, my leg starts dragging. Some nights, I make it more laps before that happens. Eventually, it's dragging REALLY bad and I have to have help. I tried the rollator last night and it helped tremendously but my neck and shoulders hurt by the time we were finished. My husband has had knee surgery in the past year and I really don't want him having to push me around although he has said it would be no problem. At the same time, renting an ECV is expensive and we don't have extra money to be spending. I guess we just need to bite the bullet and either bring a wheelchair (which I can borrow from work) or rent something. Do you have any suggestions on what/where/how? What I hate about MS (among other things) is how unpredictable it is. I could start out the day walking fine and then all of the sudden not know how to pick up my own leg. Or, I may start out not knowing what to do. Or, I may walk perfectly fine. If I only knew, I could plan better. It is sooooo frustrating!

 

[peemagg]

Can you ask your Dr for a perscription to be able to have your insurance company buy a ECV for you? I have similar problems when I walk too long (mine due to RSD) and start dragging my foot and am wore out. My insurance company bought me a ECV and I use it all the time for outings that is just too far for me to walk. If you could then you could just put it on the plane with you and take it to Disney.

If your insurance won't buy one (durable medical equipment),maybe with a script from doc they will pay for you to rent one.

 

[Earstou]

The Disney resorts have wheelchairs available for their guests, first come first served. I think you need to leave a deposit which is returned, it's been awhile since I did this. But, you never know IF there will be a wheelchair available, and IF it fits your needs. The one time I used one, we had the choice of an extra wide one, or a pediatric one. I ended up switching to the pediatric one, which was a little tight, but worked.

The next trip I budgeted money for an ecv. I absolutely loved the ecv. I could go where I wanted, and when I wanted. I ended up being the fast pass runner for the family! My advice would be to rent an ecv, but I understand about the expense.

 

[Tiggerish]

tinkerfan1, I also have MS and have problems with my leg dragging then refusing to move. I would strongly recommend cutting back on something else and renting an ECV. If you use an off-site vendor like Walkers or Randys, you will save a bit over daily rental in the parks. Plus you are guarranteed one and you have it at your resort. For me, the first day I did not have the ECV (I thought I could do it - just go slow and rest alot) and the walk from the bus stop to the front gate took most of my strength. I ended up renting a Disney ECV for that day and calling Walker to get one delivered for the rest of the trip.

WDW is more hilly then it looks and it is alot of work pushing a wheelchair. With your husband's fairly recent knee surgery, he may be taking on more than he should.

I get along with my rollator for going to the mall and things like that but at WDW renting an ECV was the only way I made it through the day. It was not just the walking, it was the heat (in May) and the sun and the MS fatigue that gets to you. I would park the ECV to do rides, food courts and some stores so you still do some walking.

What ever you decide, have a wonderful trip.

 

[christymarie]

Here's something to keep in mind. Take the rollator and see how it goes. I understand what you are saying about your leg getting heavier and heavier (mine does that) but keep in mind at Disney you will have walk and wait walk and wait. You can also sit on a rollator when in lines. You will most likely not walk as far as you are walking on the track without some sitting breaks. It may be worth it to try and then if you need to, get an ECV for only a couple of days.

 

[tinkerfan1]

Thanks, everybody, for the great advice. I keep trying to deny that I need help when I really do. Also, I go back to the doctor on Monday so I will ask about a script. Thanks, again!

 

[peemagg]

I look at it this way. There is no shame in admitting you need help. It is the foolish person who needs help but does not admit it.

If getting an ECV will make the trip better for you and your family, then go a ahead and do it.

If a ECV will make things easier for you to get around with at home, then see your Dr about getting one. I know I would be totally lost without mine. I wouldn't be able to do anything with my family because I couldn't keep up.

 

[I Love Pluto]

Trust me on this one -- a rollator is NOT enough. Rent a wheelchair or ECV.

Have a great trip!

 

[tinkerfan1]

We've decided to bring a wheelchair. However, I'm going to TRY to just use my cane. I doubt that will work but I have wishful thinking. I tried walking with the rollator at the track and it hurt my neck and back. Thanks!!