Preparing for the first wheelchair outing

[kimjaneway74656]

I'm 35 weeks pregnant & have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. It's genetic & effects the connective tissues. So basically, muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints & skin. It can also affect the heart & eyes. The main effect it has is to make suffers extra flexible which results in pain (as the body isn't supposed to move like it does) when you add pregnancy to the mix, it gets more complicated.

I've held up a lot better than Dr's thought. They where predicting the use of walking aids in Dec. I only started using them 2 weeks ago. I now unfortunately require a wheelchair as the stress the crutches put on my shoulders are causing them to pop out.

Now very nervous about my first trip out. I also feel awful as it will be my partner who will have to push me about.

Hi, I also have EDS and have been using a wheelchair for a few years on and off. I don't think that I will ever get used to using a wheelchair, mentally it's a hard step to take. I do hate that my other half has to push me, but he keeps reminding me that if it was the other way round I would do it for him. I'm sure your partner is happy to look after you.

Hope it all goes well.

Hi, I don't have EDS but a similar condition causing pain and lack of mobility and I got a wheelchair last summer.

I put it off for ages and was very reluctant, however it has literally changed my life and I now see it as a positive thing. It means we can go out so much more, people don't have to walk at a snails pace for me and it doesn't cause me as much pain as limping along with sticks. Still uncomfortable to sit down too long and we have to think about accessibility issues, but in general it has been a really good decision improving the quality of mine and my family's life.

I did feel wierd about being pushed at first but my DCS love it and fight over who gets to push me. My DH doesn't mind pushing at all as it's easier than him having to slow his pace to mine, and we laugh a lot when I want to stop to look at something in a shop and he pretends he won't stop (it's funnier in real life )

Are you able to self propel at all, I find on good days I can although it's hard on my wrists, but I do like having the option as it makes me feel more independent.

I trialled mine through the disability service, however it was too heavy for me to push so I purchased a lightweight folding one which is great. If you can get one with a pocket on the back or sides that also helps.

I hope it's ok for you and I also hope it turns out to be as positive as mine has been.