Up, up, and away
I have found that traveling or even just going to a special event often
presents challenges that can be avoided by planning ahead.
When flying, I always outline my special needs when making my airline
reservation. These include:
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A wheelchair or cart to take me (and my companion) through security
and to the gate.
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The ability to pre-board so I have the extra time I need to settle in
without the pressure of holding up a long line of people.
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An aisle seat so that I can get up without disturbing fellow
passengers when I get stiff and need to stand and move around during the
flight.
So far I have always been accommodated.
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Take me out to the ball game
My husband and I have always enjoyed going to a few baseball games each
year, but the obstacles awaiting me made me dread going. Uncomfortable
sitting for so long, I would want to stand or get up and move around,
but it seemed that I was always far from an aisle. The thought of
negotiating my way in and out of my row without tripping over the many
feet in my path or drawing attention to myself was intimidating. To
avoid embarrassment, I ended up spending about half of the game pacing
in the concession area. Eventually, I just stopped going.
This year, my husband suggested I contact the ticket office and ask
about handicapped seating. Eureka! That was the answer! The seating area
is wheelchair accessible. Padded folding chairs are provided next to the
stadium seats for those who don't use a wheelchair. Plus there are no
rows behind these sections, so I can stand and move around without
bothering anyone. Once again, I look forward to attending the games.
Now whenever planning to attend a concert, theatre production, or other
special event, I check with the ticket office first to see what
accommodations are available for people with disabilities. It's part of
my "plan for life."
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