Without a Paddle
Ponderings of an Uncommon Life
Up and Walking
Things are looking a little better this week. Helena is up and moving! Helena already has forearm crutches and a wheelchair. Now she has a walker.
She is pretty unhappy with having to use a walker- “I look like an old lady.”
That is one frustrating stigma. People should be able to use the medical equipment they need without shame or fear of teasing because it doesn’t look “cool.”
There are lots of stories out there about people not wanting to use walkers for the reason that “walkers are for old people.” Just Google “walker stigma” and see what comes up.
There is also data that mobility issues are worsened by people avoiding using walkers, even avoiding treatment due to social stigma.
Walkers are an assistive device for anyone who needs them. They are not a part of the “elderly ensemble.” Walkers are for the safety of a person who refuses to quit moving and wants to continue participating in the things of their world. Being up and moving with an assistive device at any age is a sign of strength- not weakness. It would be much easier to not try, and many choose that to avoid stigma.
Not this girl!
She has overcome another obstacle, this one arguably much scarier than any other of her medical procedures- and has surgery on the other leg coming very soon.
We are happy she is putting weight on it now- but no bending for a while longer. She is a trooper!
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Without a Paddle 
I had to use a walker for a few months after my spinal fusion. It takes a lot of strength and endurance. Helena, you should be proud th
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