Monday, June 24, 2013

Carpe Diem


When I realized I wouldn't be able to ride a bicycle during our upcoming vacation in France, my husband searched the Internet and found the TravelScoot, a collapsible electric tricycle. Problem solved, I thought. When my fellow travelers take their bikes off the canal boat to cycle into the nearest village, I'll be able to join them. But further research revealed that the TravelScoot relies on hand brakes — one for each rear tire — and I can't operate a hand brake with my affected hand.

How about a tandem bike? An adult tricycle? Neither is available for rent. I reconciled myself to quiet hours alone on the boat.

Then my husband found the EV Rider Transport — a mobility scooter like you see old men riding along the sidewalk … except this one collapses into a compact unit that can be wheeled like a piece of luggage. It's exactly the kind of disability-related purchase I've been resisting for three years.

I tell my husband: "I don't want to spend a couple grand on something I won't use when I get better." 

"We need to do what works for you now," he counters.

"But it's not even fast enough to keep up with a bike," I argue.

"I'll walk with you," he says.

Good point. I hadn't even considered the fact that I can't keep up on walks — much less bike rides.  

We bought a Transport, and I've discovered other uses for it besides taking it to France. I now take my dog for walks. I race through obstacle courses with my niece and nephew, who ditch their own scooters and take mine because it's "more fun."

My Transport is fun. I call her "Francine." She reminds me not to put my life on hold while I recover. 

Nate and Abby take Francine for a test drive.



6 comments:

  1. kristen gilmartinMonday, June 24, 2013

    I love Francine!!!!! Maybe we can take our dogs out for a walk together!!!

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  2. What joyful rides you'll have through the beautiful French countryside!

    Wishing you safe and healthy travels,
    Jackie

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  3. As a stroke survivor I have a different reaction to compensation than I did when I was a therapist. As you eloquently said compensation means I don't have to put my life on hold. Traveling with a folding shower stool that is stored in a garment bag doesn't make me sad when I visit family and friends that don't have a handicapped bathroom. Carpe diem!

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  4. I am just about as stubborn as you, and I love to see you accept Francine. I have always longed to go on a canal trip in France, but my husband hates thravelling with me, so we'll stay home until I'm better. That's okay because we live in a gorgeous place.

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  5. I love this post, and your ability to "seize the day". So glad to hear you won't be missing anything, waiting around at the boat. Have a blast!!

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  6. You are awesome! I hope you have a blast in France and can't wait to hear about it when you get back!

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