A) I began this blog because of an MS diagnosis and how it
affected my ability to travel freely. My
experience with multiple sclerosis has been a rollercoaster. In the beginning, all of this was new to me
and I wasn’t sure if I would be able to get through doors with my wheelchair,
board tenders from cruise ships, or even fit in a European elevator. Everything had changed for us which led to
more planning and investigating before we left the house.
Throughout our journeys, I began to notice how some
businesses “get it right” and how some don’t when it comes to creating an
environment hospitable for those with mobility issues. As a Californian, I also noticed the mobility
limiting issues in certain states and countries. Considering this, I decided to share my
experiences. I also hoped that others
would share their experiences as well. It
has been a labor of love.
Q) You certainly receive lots of positive reactions from
your readers. Can you tell me something about the feedback you get? Perhaps about something special or you could help someone in a special way with your
project?
A) I wasn’t surprised since my articles tend to include a
lot of detail. I take detailed notes on our
travels so it seemed logical others could benefit from knowing before they go. But, I was surprised to find out how many
people were afraid to travel due to their fear that they wouldn’t be able to get
around on their own in their wheelchairs motorized or not, canes, or
walkers. The fear of the unknown is can
be nearly as debilitating as the disease, especially when we feel helpless.
Some of my visitors share stories with me about that very
thing: traveling to a destination only to find out that they were stuck in
their room unable to move about because of inhospitable surroundings for the
mobility challenged. Sad and common.
Q) On your blog
you share that at the beginning of your illness it was a difficult time but
traveling helped you a lot. From your point of view, what significance would
you think traveling has for the disabled?
A) Yes, you are correct that the beginning of my illness was
very difficult. I believe it is
difficult for most of us to accept changes in our lives, especially when those
changes are permanent and we didn’t choose them. A disabling disease is frightening because we
don’t always know what our future abilities will be. We don’t know if we will be able to do any of
the activities we now enjoy.
When traveling, we are slightly outside our usual. We see living history in buildings and
landscapes; we can visualize the time that has passed and how other’s lives have played
out since before our known history.
For me, it is as if I can see that many have suffered much more than me
and that I am blessed for whatever I have.
I also see how very beautiful and magical the world is and how insignificant
my problems seem.
Q) Can you tell us, in which way this project changed
your own life?
A) My blog and writing have allowed me to focus on the
needs of others. When I visit a winery,
resort, or country, I am not just enjoying it mindlessly or without noting
minute detail. All, I share others.
Importance of Being Polite When
Cruising
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