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Interview: Why Write About Mobility Issues

Interview about traveling with mobility issues
Answers for a Curious Visitor
Q) What gave you the idea for this project?

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.

Please Read

Importance of Being Polite When Cruising

Flying, Traveling, and Living with MS

Navajo Reservation Experience 

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