To ECV or not:healing broken leg

[ceopamom3]

My trip to WDW is in one month.

I broke the top of my tibia into the knee joint (the tibial plateau) back in the middle of September. No cast, surgery - a plate and eight screws. It is healing very well. I am full weight bearing, but still have a cane. I can walk almost a mile on a treadmill. I am hoping in another month I will gain even more distance.

Can I make it around the world on my own? or will I need an ECV? I hate to have my DH pushing me around all day in a wheelchair. At least with the ECV he could go ahead with our 3 kids (11yo DD, 10 yo DS and 8 yo DS).

Any thoughts or experience out there? You folks are this board are wonderful and helpful!

 

[JohnnySharp2]

Cannot comment from experience, but there is a lot of walking involved around WDW - it depends on how fully you recover over the next month, but at the moment I would doubt you would be able to walk unaided around the theme parks.

Can you not postpone your visit until a later date to enable you to heal properly?

 

[DVCLiz]

Absolutely get the ECV. It's easy to learn to drive, and it will allow you to see and do things in the parks without getting worn out. I used one on a trip once when I pulled a muscle in my back, and another time when I had a knee problem. I did choose to use them at Epcot and AK, because MGM and MK were easier for me to walk through (slowly.) It really made a difference.

I wouldn't postpone a trip just because I was recovering - I'd use the tools available to help me make the most of my vacation.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

I would recommend an ECV from an off-site company. See the "disABILTIES! FAQ" for more information.

Note that once around the World Showplace Lagoon Promenade is about 1.25 miles. And that's without all the stops in attractions and stores. And there are hills which most people in good health do not even notice, but people with problems notice.

 

[ceopamom3]

I will look into renting an ECV for the week. I just read the FAQ and I see there are units that will fit in a car.. We will be staying off-site in a condo, so that will work out well.

This is a trip w/family that has been planned for a while, and the dates aren't too flexible. We have been to WDW lots, so if I miss some attractions this time - there will be another trip. I will be happy as long as I am there w/ my family.

You are very right about noticing hills and other obstacles that those in good health do not perceive. After spending some time in a wheelchair, I have a whole new appreciation for those with disabilities. Handicapped accessible doesn't mean much at alot of places. It is very disappointing and frustrating at times.

My hat is off to all of you who do not let anything stop yourself or your loved ones! You are the strong and the brave!

Thanks again!

 

[SueM in MN]

I don't have anything to add that hasn't already been written.

Glad you decided to rent an ECV.
Have a great time.