NicHostetler said...
Well, I don't mind flying all that much with my company because they put us in first class. So I pretty much eat then sleep then I'm there.
HOWEVER I am super nervous about going alone. Flying through three different airports two of which are in other countries. I have heard horror stories about the Paris airport. And I am only 24 so I have not really had much experience with flying in other countries other than the Germany trip in November. When I have bad days I can't even go shopping because it is so overwhelming so I can't even imagine being in an airport on days like that.. Then when I get there - renting a car in Venice and driving an hour to my hotel. (the hotel is only 10 mins drive from the company)
I DO get thrown off by the time change though which made my lyme sx flair when I went to Germany. I felt pretty terrible all week.
I wouldn't say I HAVE to be on site, but my manager would probably say otherwise. A couple weeks ago I kind of asked what would happen if I couldn't go and asked if I could support remotely and just stay up during their business hours and she kind of laughed and said "we'd have to figure something out"
Oh, to be 24 again. But, know what I now know.
Generally, for a younger person who hasn't traveled much, I'd usually encourage them to go. But, given the scenario you outlined, I'd have a sit-down with your manager and explain the things you wrote in the above comment. Most people who don't have Lyme Disease don't really "get it." And, while it's likely beyond your scope of desire to make her Lyme Literate, you can try to educate her a bit. I bet that would probably make her more empathetic and understanding to your concerns. She would see that it's not that you don't WANT to go, you're just concerned about
your health AND you want the trip to be successful for all involved. That might allow her to reconsider just how important it is to send someone overseas.
Anyway, you'll have to decide what you think you can or cannot handle. There's no shame in deciding you don't want to take the chance. Could you go and "power through" it? Probably. You're young.
But, from what you wrote about
your trip to Germany, it seems there's a good possibility of your feeling "pretty terrible," too. Being there for two weeks working 12-hour days sounds pretty grueling. And, if you're pretty thrown-off (as are many people) by the time change, then what are the odds of you being able to get restorative sleep for those long days?
If you DO go, I suggest going to Target, a Pharmacy, or elsewhere and buying a small container of foam earplugs. Not only will that be helpful on the plane (even in First Class), but it will be VERY helpful in loud, crowded places like airports and restaurants. Even when I wear them, I can still hear most things. For me, they mute the higher frequencies that are more piercing and irritating to my nervous system. In restaurants, I can wear them and still hear my girlfriend across the table. I just have to be careful to respond more quietly than usual, as you know how it is talking to someone wearing headphones.
Also, if you're not accustomed to wearing/carrying them with you already, bring some dark sunglasses. I have a pair of polarized Maui Jim sunglasses that are extremely helpful (along with earplugs) for days when my nervous system is overloaded/hyper-sensitive. My glasses wrap-around a bit on the side, though I wish it were a little more.
In airports, I would look for a Customer Service (or, whatever it might be called) desk and explain that you have a health condition that affects your neurological system, cognition (give me some artistic license, here
), and musculoskeletal system and you would be grateful for any help getting to your destination. That may be getting to the next gate, to a rental car company, an in-airport restaurant, your hotel, or wherever. In the airport, they will likely assist you, either by wheelchair (don't knock it, it could be very helpful), golf cart, or some other shuttle. They might even be able to assist with your luggage, once you get to your destination.
So, the point is: Ask for help! Get what help you can, in any situation you can. Most people WANT to help others, when they know the other person is struggling. It's unfortunate we don't do this ALL of the time, but that's another topic. Use the resources that are available. They are there for a reason.
Oh, you probably have an iPod, iPhone, or some other portable device that has music. Music is my most favorite tool to help me relax. So, while Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Count Basie may not do it for you, bring some soothing, calming music. For ambient music, I like artists like Liquid Mind and Jonn Serrie, among others. Or, an audiobook may be helpful, as it can focus your attention on the story.
Whatever you decide, I wish you luck, my friend. Keep us updated.
Sincerely,
The Dude
Post Edited (The Dude Abides) : 1/26/2018 1:47:47 PM (GMT-7)