We recently purchased a piece of equipment called a 'Sit to Stand' lift. Valuable to assist with static standing [standing still] and useful for helping to transfer from one chair / wheelchair / bed / toilet to another without the caregiver straining themselves.

It's a large, clunky looking thing which makes it difficult to match the decor in most rooms and they are expensive. I mention the cost because insurance doesn't cover it. Shopping for one, prices ranged from 1800 - 5000. You MUST research carefully. This applies to any and all medical equipment. Not only for price, but, for quality and appropriateness for the user.

Lastly, I mention that you need to utilize your equipment. Even people with disabilities find clothes hanging on lifts and walkers; much like many people do with treadmills and weight lifting equipment. If you're not using it, perhaps you can find an 'Into New Hands' program. If you're not utilizing the equipment, perhaps someone else can.........

My brother recently stopped by to visit. As we discussed some of my recent health adventures / challenges, he noted that while on the phone during a particularly difficult time, he said; 'I never heard you sound like that before'.

The sound he is referring to was the sound of defeat in my voice. I had never heard me sound like that, either. My success in adjusting to my disability has always been based on the theory that hard work = gains. Recently, that theory, the success formula, did not apply. Infections and their consequences don't fit my formula. After you try everything with all your effort and none of it works, what's left? I guess I hit the wall [felt like the wall hit me] and I waived the white flag in surrender.

Fortunately, that time has passed and my success formula is valid again. I did surrender but I didn't give up. It's a fine line with lots of gray area between them. You never know for sure until you are there. I hope I can steer clear of that place..........I don't want to sound like that again........

Like it or not, squeaking, can move things along. While my personal style is one that promotes following up on your commitments at all levels, people and many businesses do not.  Just the reality of our times, I theorize...

After having fallen through the cracks and making several phone calls, the cushion for my  wheelchair was finally delivered. Unfortunately, the tech who drove 1.5 hours to deliver it and I, immediately noted that this was the wrong cushion. He was embarrassed and I was angry, frustrated, annoyed, and my butt still hurt.

I immediately wrote a loud, squeaky letter of complaint and made sure that all  company personnel I could get names / addresses for received their very own copies. Apologies were received as was a new cushion the following week..........