feels good to get out!

I've been back in the wheelchair since summer, went thru the 'poor me's', joined this forum which is some great therapy I didn't expect.  Finally decided to get out among 'the living'.  Amazing how great I feel l again.  I met at my painting  groups' monthly meeting and was welcomed w/open arms.  I gave up on being independent and the little help I did need I accepted and my friends were more than happy to help me as they were so glad I  found the courage to get out.  My husband helps me at home which we've  been doing 'forever' and I'm used to that, but when you need to ask someone else for help it can at times be hard.  Must remember being in a wheelchair sort of gives the disability away.

As far as I know ms does not effect our mental ability,save depression...><and women love to get together w/other women not for any heart to hearts , just for some unknown wellbeing.

If any of you are homebound and have any chance of getting out-even if a friend has to push you in a wheelbarrow.  DO IT !  2 hours among people will make up for 2 months of being homebound.

Merry Christmas to you all.

I've been in a wheelchair full-time for the last 8 years or so. (I used the chair before that, when I had to walk long distances...longer than a couple of car lengths).  Asking for help at first is hard, as you identified...but for the most part, people are gracious and happy to help.

I still travel by car alone...and call in (like to a hotel) to tell them "I'm here in your handicap lot; I'm registered to check in to your hotel; can you send someone out to help with my chair?"  I've never been refused, the hotel workers have been more than helpful, and I've never felt uncomfortable doing it.  My going off on my trips (I do some consulting work) is good for my husband, too, because he gets a break from having to worry about me at home (instead he worries from afar; thank heavens for cell phones!  :)  )

Happy holidays to you and your family, too.