Me and my mobility aids

In about a week I will be turning 35, I am a 35 year old with 4 different mobility aids!!! This is not how I imagined my life....
I know that my mobility aids are meant to help me function in the daily world, but I would really rather not have to use them.

I own a cane, rollator (walker), wheelchair, and power scooter. I use all 4 for different things and at different times of the year.

Of the 4 I use my cane most often, I mainly use it for my daily errands. I fought the idea of using a mobility aid on a regular basis until my chiropractor said to me one day "it's not always about the cane helping you, it's a reminder to those around you that you may be a little slower and to be patient with you." I had never looked at it this way, but it makes a lot of sense to me!

I use my rollator (walker) mostly in the colder months or when my fatigue us getting the best of me. You see, when my body thinks it's cold EVERYTHING gets stiff and it makes walking almost impossible.  I've also used my walker when I would like to go for a longer walk with my family, it was a good place to rest when my legs got tired.

I also have a wheelchair, I don't use it a whole lot though.....for many reasons. I am unable to use my wheelchair on my own because my arms are no where near strong enough to move the wheelchair. I'm also not a big fan of bossing my husband around when he has to push me, (he swears he doesn't mind) or the looks I get from people if I stand up from my chair!

 I have used my wheelchair for bigger shopping trips with my family, our first MS walk, and while camping the first summer after my diagnosis. It's not my most favourite mobility aid but it definitely has it's uses.

I think my boys favourite mobility aid of mine is my power scooter, I don't mind it either. I bought my scooter from our local lending cupboard, which I think is a great way to get what you need for a lot less money and helping out a wonderful community organization. I bought the scooter to keep up with my family's outdoor activities, and I must say it definitely helps me keep up without the exhaustion.

While I'm not a huge fan of having to use mobility aids at only 35, I do realize that it is for my own good!