How do you make lunch on crutches?

[LissyGlitter]

Not sure if this is the right topic, but I suppose people round here might be experienced in this area...

I am on crutches for SPD, so I can stand still for very short periods and use my hands, but if I walk I have to use both crutches. I am hungry and need to eat something substantial so I can take my painkillers. How on earth do I make and get lunch to somewhere I can eat it?

I have loads of tins and frozen food and so on.

Am I going to have to call my MIL and ask her to come round to cook for me? I feel really cheeky as she did my breakfast for me and is currently playing with DD at her house so I can have some peace and quiet. Also I have 9 days till the baby is born, and would like to try to stay as independent as I can, as I will need help once the baby is here too.

Are you comfortable sitting? You could sit to do most of the preparation work.

If you are going to continue having problems after the birth, then maybe its time to call in an Occupational Therapist, through Social Services? They can provide equipment -- such as a Perching Stool. I used to have one of those and they are quite handy in the kitchen.

Good luck with the birth!

Charlotte
www.disabledparentsnetwork.org.uk

I'm hoping - touch wood - that it will just be a matter of weeks until I am back to being fully active. I'll tell you what, I will try to appreciate being able to move again, I don't think I realised quite how lucky I was!

Yes, I was going to suggest a perching stool and trolley/tray on wheels.

Maybe also think about re-arranging the kitchen to make everyday things accessible.

You could also get someone else to get all the crockery or utensils out that you wil need for the day.

I got Occupational Health to give me a perching stool and a tray on wheels, as others have suggested. However it can still be very hard even with things like this to help you. I used to microwave a mug of good quality soup and have a cheese sandwich with it, and then have a yoghurt and some fruit afterwards. That acts as a good stomach liner for codeine phosphate or whatever, and is nutritionally sound.