Diagnosed over two decades ago with MS, I have
traveled extensively while in a wheelchair and wielding a cane. I have made mistakes, but I've enjoyed every
second—even when plans go awry. I've
learned that although traveling with MS may be challenging, but it isn't
impossible.
Maintain
your stress level.
Whether it is a canceled flight, flat tire, or never-ending
detours the stress from traveling can be tiring. If allowed, stress can certainly cause a
relapse or exacerbation of symptoms. Therefore, when a problem arises, as most
certainly it will when traveling, I try to find humor in it.
For example, on a flight to Hawaii, my wheelchair was
stowed – as is common – with the luggage.
Unfortunately, when we arrived in the land of warm breezes, my previously
perfect wheelchair appeared as if King Kong used it as a plaything. I could have cried, yelled, or both. Instead, I requested to borrow an airport
chair and laughed about the fact that I would be unique among all the chaired on the island.
Boost
your immune system.
For those with MS, boosting and maintaining a
healthy immune system is essential when traveling. Luckily, I've always filled my plates with
immune-boosting foods, like dark greens and a variety of fruits. However, it isn't so easy when
traveling. Therefore, I always carry a
bag of dried cherries and nuts – antioxidants and omega-3s – and take a multivitamin every day. I also choose fresh fruit and lean protein
for breakfast and salads for lunch when possible.
Ensure
accessibility.
Finding that some airports use stairs instead
of ramps for their plane, I learned early on to always call ahead. When making reservations for travel and
lodging, state your limitation and inquire about accessibility. If flying, request an aisle chair if you use
a wheelchair full time. Make sure yours
is tagged and will be available for you when you land. Reserve a wheelchair-friendly van as
transport to and from your lodging.
Don't take for granted that a hotel will be fully
accessible just because their site boasts walk-in showers and grab-bars. When visiting Paris, the elevator in our accessible hotel was tiny with no room
for a chair. The room was hardly
wheelchair-friendly as well. Therefore,
ask very specific questions when reserving the room, including door dimensions. Some wheelchairs cannot fit through European
doors.
Pack
the essentials.
Besides packing outfits you'll never wear, pack all medications in the original packaging, and don't forget weatherproof attire. During a trip to Boston, it rained every
day. I had remembered to pack a
lightweight waterproof jacket but didn't consider how wet I would be while
sitting in a wheelchair. The rain-soaked
my pants and the seat of my chair. An
inexpensive poncho will keep you and your chair dry.
I ended up using a large garbage bag for my
legs. Yes, it was hilarious to see.
Don't
forget to enjoy yourself.
Fatigue can be our worst enemy, especially when
traveling. There's so much to see and
only so much time to do it. I've learned
to slow down every couple of hours and park myself someplace quiet to people watch. In as little as ten minutes, I'm ready for
another round of sightseeing. Of course,
an afternoon nap is a great way to rejuvenate as well.
Keep Reading
Public Swimming
Pools Can be Deadly for Those With Autoimmune Diseases
How Becoming
a Caregiver for a Stroke Victim Can Change Your Life
How Does Diet
and Exercise Affect Those with Multiple Sclerosis?
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