JONI'S STATEMENT ON THE GLAMORIZATION OF PHYSICAN - ASSISTED SUICIDE IN THE NEW FILM "Me Before You."

You Before Me Film Is A Propaganda Film...Don't Believe the lies they are promoting....
Assisted Suicide is suicide non-the-less. Murder. It will always be murder, be it murder of your self or of someone else because they were assisted, it is still taking a life that is not your's or our's to take. God is the ONLY One in charge of life.
At first when I watched the movie trailer for "You Before Me, initially I was lured into the over all cuteness and the fact that I saw the main character was a person who used a wheelchair. There was an apparent romance (however unethical with the person's nurse, but I would have to confirm that), who doesn't like that in  a movie...Well, then a friend send me notices about what this movie was really promoting. And then another dear friend sent me the link to the below article yesterday. And article written by one of my hero's, Joni Eareckson Tada.
Even if they say please do it! It isn't right to do. Read this great short article about the newest propaganda film to promote these lies called "You Before Me." Click HERE to read her article.
Joni Eareckson Tada herself experienced the

temptation to want to escape the consequences of her tragic diving accident back in 1967. She was seventeen years old and was facing the fact that her spinal cord was broken which meant she would face life using a wheelchair full time, due to paralysis from about her chest down. But praise God, He didn't let her friend give into her  request for assistance. This can be read about in the autobiography Joni penned, called "Joni." As well as by watching Joni play her self in the bio pic called "JONI." It is excellent.
It is mind numbing to hear those who actually believe the lie that due to physical disability or injury or whatever it is, quality of life doesn't exist.

To learn more about the value of all life, watch a plethora of great videos of the lives who inspire Joni from Joni And Friends. There are great documentaries about Joni as well.

CLICK HERE TO Check out the list.

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OUR WEDDING STORY - Part 1

Us, on October 20, 2001

Initially, I just thought it would be fun to talk about and share some wedding photos. But then, that lead to a multi part story about Our Wedding....

Craig and I met about ten years before we actually got married in 2001. Craig would show up every now and then at my church as a visitor, that's where  I met him. We exchanged niceties but, nothing

Craig, long before I knew him!

more than that. Until about four years prior to our marriage in 2001. Based on some nice things he would say to me when I saw him ocassionaly in public and when he came for meetings at the

offices on the bottom floor of my apartment building, I thought maybe he might like me and I him.
Stalker!?
After two or three dinner invitations, making him some sort of strange healthy pizza, I remember considering the idea of him and I being married.  We never once discussed or even hinted at anything like that.
Not wanting to give up too easily, when I found out he had a gym membership, in spite of my muscle weakness,  I joined the gym too!  Yes there were accessible equipment pieces that he could use, but due to my limited muscle function, I could only use the arm ergometer on my own. Imagine signing up for a whole one year membership for one piece of equipment and oh, ya...right, and for the possibility of finding out if Craig "liked" me or not!
It was all worth it, I needed to know for sure. I was interested in him, but for the life of me, I couldn't figure out how he felt. So I would try to figure out when he would be at the gym, peek around corners, look past doors and then when found, in a nonchalant, "fancy meeting you here," kind of way, we'd greet each other and he'd shower me with an abundance of kind words. What girl wouldn't like that! I even signed up to volunteer at a local hospital, for the very same position that he had already had for about ten years. Yes, I kind of stalked him.
A Mail Man Is A Person In Your Neighbourhood!
One of Craigs' strongest traits has always been his whole, opposite of shy manner. It is what made him a great mail man! No, I didn't know him when he was he delivering mail, but I remember Sesame Street really well, when they had the song segment, "Who are the people in your neighbourhood?.... A Postman is the person in your neighbourhood...In your neighbourhood, in your, neigh-bour-hood...yes, who...."

Watch That Song Here!

That's the song that comes to mind when I picture Craig as a Mail Man. Friendly, smiling bearded face, talking to every person he 'd meet. Yes, Craig even sang as he glided up and down people's yards placing mail into their hungry mailboxes. He told me today that he also use to play games with the children on his route, trying to make them laugh and giggle. He could hear their wee voices saying, "Hi Mailman!" And he would respond sometimes with, "Hey, I hear a little bird, a little bird is talking to me!" There were the times, when he would jump through water sprinklers with them, clothes and all! As well as asking the kids on occasion, to hose him down on those really hot days!
Then there were the times he made mooing cow sounds for some, and at times, he would pretend that  some kids were invisible, just goofing around with them. One memorable moment, he remembers really well was a young lad who would wait for him every weekday morning, with a cookie in hand, just for the mailman! Perhaps that is why years later, he told me that cookies are messages of love! Naw, that was most likely because his mom was a great baker of cookies and pies!
It was his bold friendliness and sweet talk, that started to win my heart over.
Mr. Right

As the weeks went by, we would talk occasionally on the phone, but, it started to become clear to me that he just said nice things to all the ladies! Starting to prepare my heart to give up the hope of Craig responding to my signals, I even began to wonder if he was too old for me. (Sorry Craig, you know all that.) I didn't know his age at the time. I was about 31 years old. 

As well, practically and selfishly speaking, I actually did wonder if marrying a fellow who used wheels for legs like me, would work out well. Those thoughts are not something I ever thought I would have and I am ashamed that I had them. It even sounds strange saying that out "loud," for all too read,  but it is the truth, it was what I wondered back then. 

My whole life, I had wanted to be married. I envisioned that my husband wouldn't just love me as his wife, but also be the main provider of my personal care, and then I selfishly, wouldn't need my own Personal Care Attendants at all or as often. When someone comes into your home morning and night,  decade after decade, it is tempting to consider real privacy and going to bed or getting up when ever you want to. Selfish, I know. But it is what was in my head at the time. 

Craig and I talked about that consideration a long time ago and even though initially, I would be mortified if someone thought the way I did, we realized it isn't "abnormal" to wonder something like that. In no way does it mean you love the person less or are you judging them because of their disability. I would say in my case, it was more because of my disability.

In fact Craig told me that once we got married, a friend of our's who acquired his disability because of a motorcycle accident, told Craig that thanks to our marriage, he knew it was okay to marry his girlfriend. Before that, he said he didn't know if marrying his girlfriend could work because they both live with physical disabilities. Needless to say, unbeknownst to us, he was encouraged by our marriage and did the same thing! Little did we know...What a wonderful thing that is! 

We Know How The Story Ends..

Boy did God have a plan beyond my wildest dreams. But for now, I will end part one here.....

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ASPERGER'S SYNDROME/ THE AUTISM SPECTRUM / AUTISM

Recently, in an attempt to understand and help someone very

Albert Einstein- A lived with
Asperger's/Autism Spectrum

special to us, I have been learning about the Autism Spectrum/Asperger's /Autism. The more I discover, the more chords in my heart are struck, hitting closer to home than I ever thought. Relieved and encouraged.  The more I learn, the more it makes me wonder...Why does it make we wonder? About 12 years ago, I was officially diagnosed with ADHD...well....here is an article and some other  links and videos that helped me to think possibly, I may have been misdiagnosed. 

Below are some incredible, inspiring people!

P.S. We just watched a wonderful biographical movie about and called"Temple Grandin."  Highly recommend watching it.

Click the title to go to the links.  
Is It Asperger's Syndrome/ Autism Spectrum Or ADHD?

A Look At Famous People With Autism

A Couple Of great Great You Tube Channels...
TEACH through Love

Thomas Hibben : Around The World With Autism

Sally Thibault-Autism Spectrum

Amethyst Schaber- What Is Autism?

What Is Stimming?

Watch Temple Grandin, Incredible Lady

My Experience With Autism

Susan Boyle An Unlikely Superstar
 There's Something About Susan

Coping With Asperger's- Anger and Frustration

CRAIG'S QUCKIE XTENDER WHEELS UPDATE: Good News Today!

Could it Be True?!

It's April 28, 2016 and just as we mentioned a few days ago, Sunrise Medical returned Craig's 2nd set of Xtender wheels yesterday morning - motors replaced and checked over, we were told, they are now reinstalled. Upon arrival of the wheels, we inspected them, the dealer and technician who installed them, looked too and the spokes do look pretty good. Not at all like the last 3rd set did. More than just us said the spokes were clearly improperly installed, which was a relief to know. Just hope the manufacturer sees the problem. Then no one in the future will have the same issue Craig did.


Here is the video Below for that previous article on what happened

As of now, Craig has officially been using them again, for about 30 hours, except for sleeping, and so far, so good!! No clicking. And we were concerned because the Sunrise contact who reached us a few weeks ago, said the motors were replaced  on Craig's 2nd set and everything else was checked over. and fine, no mention of the spokes. So yay,
No clicking SO Far!. Could it be true? Is it gone for ever, or until actual time wears out his wheels? We've been here before, and then....well, let's pray this is it. After all the replacements and such, we'll do what is right... trust God!
Just A Few Thoughts...
Sorry, I just need to keep it real and share a few thoughts and questions.
I'm wondering why they would change the motors when there was nothing wrong with them that we could tell. Based on what Craig had experienced, it made no sense.
Because the Sunrise contact never mentioned the spokes or clicking issue, the very reason for the clicking, changing just the motors doesn't compute. But that's just my brain. In our opinion, in all 3 sets, the 3rd set for sure, broken. faulty installation of them was the issue for sure. (See the last few "Spoke Too Soon" articles). We are a tad nervous about trusting that that sound won't come back. When the troubles started, we recorded everything, to document it, but also so those technicians and even our dealer near by, could hopefully see and hear the problem and then it might help them all to problem solve.
It's why everything from day one,was documented, especially that super happy first day of using his awesome new PA Wheels!! A great day! All documented, for those reasons and as a scrap book sort of for us, friends, family and anyone else interested in these wheels. Sharing with others we know and even those we don't know. Thinking they may inspire others to get them or recommend them to people they care about.
Glad we have it all documented.

Craig BEFORE Xtender Wheels. Now, he can do hills and ramps like a breeze!

Warranties??
Even though the warranty runs out from the first day, Craig got the very first pair installed - meaning, May 20, 2016! That's only in three weeks!
We've asked these kinds of questions to those places involved, but so far no answers. So I have to put this out "there..." Would someone, please explain to us, why his warranty would be all over based on wheel set number one, even though up until April 2016, he has been having the same problem after problem. It makes no sense... Right?
And then a few weeks ago, after waiting and waiting to find out what Sunrise was going to do with Craig's breaking spokes/faulty spoke installation. We were told the spokes were considered a wear and tear item (by our Twitter Quickie Sunrise person, who always tried to get the answers for us), we suddenly found out that  because of that, they aren't covered under warranty. But that Sunrise was  making an exception for Craig by sending 36 replacement spokes, for him to keep once the others were replaced, for future use.
 I asked them to find out  how the company, can say that to Craig, when he discovered broken spokes on day one of using them, and then what about the 3 more that broke within days and weeks? No, he didn't get to wear and tear down the spokes. How can ones that are faulty from the beginning, be considered a wear and tear problem?? Discouraging. No answers have come so far about these questions.
Sorry, I know all is fine at this moment, it's just going to take some time to trust that he will be keeping wheels that he paid for, assuming they will finally work well for more than a week or a whole year at least.
Yes, I can be an over thinker. It's just after all I have witnessed and written about, it is a challenge to just trust that all of a sudden it will stay silent, spokes staying true and strong.
I am sure all will be swell. :o) Good thing, I held back far more thoughts and questions, than I actually have, assuming it wasn't wise to just pour it all out there if it won't help Craig.
Quickie 2 Quality History
Like we said before, he has a Quickie 2 wheelchair that is seven years old and no spoke has ever broken or bent, none! Including his previous 3 other Quickie 2's! Except when once, there was a hub recall, a recall! Something that maybe, should have been done with this particular series of Xtender wheels. Just a thought, Maybe there has been, we'll find out in time I suppose. Sunrise sounded like they wanted to take care of things.  We'll trust that. So far so good.
It is why, like we mentioned before, he is getting the paper work ready (the salesperson is) to purchase his 5th QUICKIE 2 wheelchair that he can install these Xtender wheels onto. Quickie 2 chairs are sturdy and this one lasted him 8 years!Xt

Communication And Word Of Mouth
Communication, is so valuable to customer service with a company, they know that.  When a customer makes a purchase, especially something that impacts your daily life, trust in that product and the company that makes it and sells it,  is critical. If any questions or concerns arise about it and no one at the company seems to be listening to the customer, or communicates with you about it, that can cause some stress and fear. And if nothing changes, the anxiety snow balls along with fear of being stuck with a product that is faulty. Thankfully we believe this experience will end well.

But we have to be open and forthright with people who ask us about how things have gone. We don't know about you, but when someone wants your opinion on a device or product that they are interested in, that you own, you take your words seriously.
We are both VERY influenced by the advice and feedback of others. We have bought many products over life, because of what we discovered through research and the words of those we trust. Especially others like us. If a fellow wheelchair user has good things to say about say, their wheels, then we would be sold on their brand. Just like Craig's positive, raving words about his Xtender wheels actually have had people buying the same ones. Recently another friend mentioned that they suggested to a friend, they need Power Assist wheels. We had to tell them about our experience, but we both definitely say P.A. wheels are a valuable device to help anyone who is wanting to avoid long term pushing injuries. Or like Craig, get relief from injuries already sustained from half of a life, of using a manual chair.

If something happens to you regarding a product you have bought from any where, disability related or not, we do contact the social media site for the company. We assumed when we did it, it was the right thing to do because that's when we heard something back quickly. They were wonderful and made out experience the best it could have been. The source company in the beginning, didn't responded to our first emails and calls, but since Social media for us got answers and consistent communication, we figured that must be the way to reach the source company. It helped a lot.
 to get  help and reassurance.
Thanks again to the work done through whoever is on the receiving end  Quickie Twitter feed. Otherwise, the attempts at communication...well, let's not keep looking back. What matters is how this all ends!
Of course our experience is just one out of many. Always research well. Don't go by one experience, that's up to you of course. We only can say the good with the not so good. Because I am truly exhausted trying to cover so many details,writing and making video, not wanting to miss anything incase it will help Craig and the companies problem solve or take action, and I am going to stop now, assuming all will be okay. And because the Bible talks about pushing ahead and not looking back, since Craig seems "taken care of" at this moment,  my intent is to abide by that. To be quiet on the Xtender wheel warranty/clicking topic. Of course that is assuming all stays quiet and working well.

Sharing the great times and other thoughts, will still happen at any time, because that is always more fun to do!! Besides, that's my husband, happy and positive.

All I know is as of this moment, if we don't look back....Craig is out there in the world right now shopping. Using these super useful assist wheels that make his life  much easier!


I saw a Quickie/Sunrise Video on YouTube and the representative said that Sunrise is totally into using customer input and such. Take a look below:

Questions? Experiences? We'd love to hear from you. Comment below. 

CRAIG'S QUICKIE XTENDER WHEELS - What's New As Of Right Now With Craig's Xtender Wheels....

Watch The Video right below- What's New As Of Right Now With Craig's Xtender Wheels....

So far, Sunrise Medical/Quickie, has been doing pretty well in addressing the ongoing troubles Craig has had with all three sets of Xtender wheels. The best communication has been my exchanges with Quickie's Twitter site. It has helped a lot to know that I have someone I can communicate with when I have questions or concerns. We did receive our first personal communication from someone at Sunrise Medical a couple of weeks ago, outside of Twitter. And we want to say that our intent in documenting everything about Craig's Xtender experience publicly, was never intended to say anything negative about any of the companies involved with these wheels. If we presented anything that way, please know we didn't mean to.

What's New?
To know the history, you would need to check out the Xtender Wheel articles on this blog. So I don't sound repetitive, I will say what's new. Watch the video above, that pretty much covers the last two weeks. ....like I said just look back at the articles. Sunrise Quickie sent a set of replacement spokes. On April 15th, 2016 the dealer tried to replace the broken ones but they just kept breaking. (The night before, a 3rd spoke just snapped in the exact same way.) So, Craig was given the demo pair of wheels by the dealer.  As you will see in the above video, the demo wheels looked like improvements had been made to the spoke installation and quality. All a good thing.

I was hoping that he might then get this new and improved set of wheels or his would be made to be like these ones, minus then rubber coated hand rims. .n fact the whole two weeks that he had the demo pair, there was no clicking. When he first tried a demo pair almost 2 years ago, for two whole weeks, there was no clicking either. All has been perfect with demo wheels. Makes sense, because it's clear how the spokes are crossed over in a better way and are more flush in the hub, looking much better. We let the companies involved, including the dealer know about the improvements and how we assumed Craig would be getting the improvements.
Well, no so far...
We were told a couple of days ago that Sunrise replaced the motors in set number two and there was no clicking when they checked them over, that all looks and sounds good.  We pray that they are right and all will be well. We are concerned that nothing was mentioned about spokes. But, we will trust that Sunrise has it taken care of.

Stay Tuned.
Hopefully, our next article will be another "Woo Hoo!" all is working and quiet!increased his pain. So even though we are not sure how all this will end up, he loves using P.A. wheels.

CRAIG FINISHES HIS DIP: Revlon's Wax Therapy Spa For Arthritis. Part #2

Okay, time for Craig to complete his dip in the wax therapy bath. (Watch the video above) If anyone else wants to try this great device, it does take some planning. It takes about two hours to completely let the paraffin wax melt down into liquid form. And then you definitely may want to reduce the heat slightly, prior to using. If you watched Part #1, (click here.) you will know that just as he was about to begin dipping his hand in, Craig noticed that a layer of cooled wax formed on the surface. Just like pudding skin! Make sure you test the wax prior to dunking your hand in. And then, as you will see in the video in part #1, how many times you should dip. When done, make sure you let the wax solidify before you slip your hand into the plastic baggie and then quickly into the insulated mitten. Revlon provides the wax, a pair of these cool mittens and a supply of baggies. Which is pretty good for the price.

Re-Using The Wax?
Remember to keep the wax from getting contaminated too fast, make sure you wash your hands well prior to dipping. And we chose to place the peeled off wax into a separate baggie and re-melt it all together in the future. The whole amount can be re-melted and used about ten times or more. We found a person in our research who said to keep using it. But, when it gets clouded and a bit smelly, clean it out. That is a whole other process.
We do not recommend letting it actually get cloudy and smelly first. That would not be sanitary and could cause infections.

The spa was Craig's birthday gift!
Did you see the sweet surprise in the video?

We Learned...
1. Heat therapy in any form is definitely beneficial to arthritis and some other pain.
2. Wax Baths definitely help provide comfort to osteoarthritis sufferers.
3. Plan at least two hours ahead and you won't be disappointed.
4. Make sure to have the baggies and mitt close by your therapy bath. Ot else it could get messy trying to reach everything.
5. It not only relieves pain in your hands for a while, it softens rough dry skin.
6. It can be used on feet as well. Remember to wash your feet meticulously PRIOR to dipping!

CRAIG TAKES A DIP! Part #1

Craig celebrated his 64th birthday this month. Not sure what to get him, I decided he might benefit from a hot wax bath device. It was easy to find one on Amazon.ca in Canada. It may be dusted rose in colour, but pink doesn't make him any less masculine than he already is :o)
We made a short two part video in case anyone else is interested in these products. Not so he can have pretty fingernails but to provide relief to his poor, bent up fingers. Osteoarthritis has been wreaking havoc on Craig's well worn hands. Not only does using a wheelchair for thirty or so years crack and dry out his skin, but it means arthritis doesn't help when he still needs to use his hands to propel his legs.

Did the wax bath work? 
Watch Part one Below....
There is a Nummy surprise, keep your eye peeled.

MY PERSONAL CARE ATTENDANT ADVERTISEMENT

drawing by me, Anita - That is supposed
to be me hanging in the hoyer lift.

For about 20 years now, due to my physical disability, I have been a Direct Funding,  Self Manager. Hiring and training people without and with, previous experience to be my “arms and legs,” Personal Care Attendants, giving me a hand with the physical aspects of daily living.

 

What I require help with is getting into and out of bed, getting dressed, transferring to my wheelchair with a mechanical lift, range of motion physio (training provided), assistance with personal care, hygiene, various aspects of housekeeping, yard work, errands and other tasks as needed.

 

If you are interested in knowing more about the PCA position in Thunder Bay, (for me) just click the video above to learn more. :o)

REQUIREMENTS

-Be willing to be trained 

- Able to follow detailed directions well.

-Be a non-smoker (I am severely allergic)

-Because I am a female, I prefer female PCAs

-Must have valid drivers license, vehicle

-If no vehicle, must live very close to Dufferin Street, Thunder Bay

-Must be physically strong, caring, flexible, trustworthy and understanding.

Due to the personal nature of a PCA, thought it would help if those interested wanted to know more about the position and me, the person in need of a hand. I have had some PCAs work for us as long as 8 years! It is a great job for someone who is seeking something with short shifts to work around another position, classes or make some extra money and receive great pay, $19.00 an hour. 

ON THE JOB TRAINING

Applicants, don't require any diplomas or certificates. What matters most to me (aside from the basic requirements) is someone who wants meaningful employment, willing to be trained on the job, is caring, and able to follow directions. Without the assistance from my PCAs, I wouldn't be able to go to or get out of bed. Super important role.

LUCY WEDEMEYER, ON BEING A WIFE AND CAREGIVER: Be Inspired Part 2

 This video is a great, meaningful interview with Lucy Wedemeyer, wife of Charlie Wedemeyer. Her husband miraculously lived with ALS for over thirty years. 
Click this link to here to watch her interview with one of my heroes, Joni Eareckson Tada, as they discuss the role of caregiving and what that means when you spouse or loved one depends on your care. 
BE ENCOURAGED Caregivers!

MEET CHARLIE AND LUCY WEDEMEYER: Be Inspired Part 1

MEET CHARLIE AND LUCY WEDEMEYER: Be Inspired

Click this link here for part one of a very inspiring story.

YES INDEPENDENTLY...A Few More Thoughts On That

YES, INDEPENDENTLY!
Living Independently?  You just said folks like you require assistance from others in order to live out your physical life. How can that be living independently? Okay, maybe you, yourself, didn't ask that, but I am imagining someone reading this might have. It's a valid question after all.
How can, I say that I and others similar to me, live independently, when we require assistance every single day and night, no holidays?  Requiring a hand with all or some daily living tasks, such as, getting out of and into bed, personal hygiene,  bowel and bladder routines, all kinds of housekeeping, shopping, pet care, cooking... all aspects of running a home, as well as assistance with employment? Trust me, that question is out there.
So let me clarify what some, I said, some people misunderstand. When someone says they live independently, many picture living without the help of anyone else.  The answer is and always will be from many of us is...We live independently because of the arms and legs or assistance of others, helping us with what  we can not do on our own, we are able to live independently.
That assistance, for me, is made possible by the PCAs, that God blesses me with each day and night, decade after decade.  I was blessed with a bonus, thankfully my husband, who also uses a wheelchair, has what I call "regular muscles." He also takes care of my physical tasks where he can. You should see all the wrinkles he smooths out for me so I can sleep. Not to mention, moving strands of hair out of my eye, and all the other tasks I can no longer do where he can. Cooking is great fun, he is awesome at taking my directions, made possible by all the teaching I received in my four years of high school home economics cooking classes, dear Mrs. Agombar.
I lived on my own since I was seventeen, those classes helped me to not just eat Kraft Dinner, (I actually preferred No Name mac and cheese) Independent living was possible back then, thanks to PCAs and my family.
It is a wonderful thing to be able to live on your own single or married. Yes, we clearly depend on others to carry out the physical aspects of life, but it is as if we are doing it on our own, thanks to the arms and legs of other, who help us to do things the way we like them to be done.

A beautiful thing in my life.

YES INDEPENDENTLY - Updated!

Living with a physical disability often means hiring someone to be our "arms and legs." Depending on our abilities and level of care needs, are what determine just how much assistance we may need....
ALWAYS A WAY
I am one of those individuals. In my situation, living with a neuromuscular disorder called Spinal Muscular Atrophy type 3, means progression of my muscle weakness.  That means as the years have clicked by, my level of care needs increase. My hands can still type this article, albeit slowly, but my arms can't be raised. I can sort of  try to move my right forearm to reach something on the table, by "walking" my fingers across the table surface. Can you picture that? :o) It is amazing how we can come up with ways to figure out how to do things in a different or new way, on our own, when your abilities are changing.
For me, it has been  a blessing, to know that my muscles were/are going to slowly stop cooperating over the course of my life. It is one of the reasons that this blog is called Walking, Way Overrated. I did walk and for me, that ability slowly crept away. It wasn't a huge loss, because I had been prepared for it.
Mind you, these days, I must confess, that in spite of knowing what may happen next, I am a bit nervous. As long as I had the basic the use of my hands and forearms, I could still create, cook, shop,  knit, sew, garden, sort of hug and things like that. As of this moment, fifty percent of that isn't possible anymore. But thanks to my dear husband, I get to direct his hard working hands to shop, prepare and cook, not mention the many other ways he helps me out.
As for being a visual artist,  I find myself trying to get all I can done.  (my recent passion has been working in polymer clay) Working steadily whenever I have the energy and health to.  My thinking being, work while you still can. Just incase, the day comes, my hands decide to not work with me anymore! My dominant hand is the right one, the left one's job is to drive my power chair :o) So far, so good. CLICK HERE if you want to check out my artistic side!
It's all in God's hands. Ha, my hands are happily in HIS Hands!  I trust His provision. It's just the one function that I didn't really plan on losing before He takes me to my Home in Heaven!
These changes lead to automatically problem solving, as  many of us go. There's always a way,  if not with our own limbs, especially with the assistance of friends, family and PCAs!

LIFE CHANGES....NOW! 
Craig didn't always use a wheelchair. When he faced pretty much sudden changes in his lower limbs, he ended up having to live in the hospital for about three months in rehabilitation. At that point, in total, he had already been in hospitals a total of about six months. Anxious to breathe the fresh air at his home on the lake, he asked to go home. Turned out, it was too soon. In spite of the fact that he had to remain a rehab out-patient for aa total of two years. When he talks about it now, he says that he definitely should have lived a bit longer in the hospital. But he did it on his own, with a bit of assistance from an outside homemaker program. He lived on his own, with no one to call on for help. He happily shares how called on God's help daily! Craig has many amazing stories, miracles really, of how he was clearly helped physically many many times by God's ministering angels. No, he doesn't worship angels, we know though that the Bible says they are ministering spirits sent to help God's people. I too have incredible stories about God's protection, provision, and just overall help in every day life.
A good lesson to learn from Craig is, if you are facing changes to your body like that.  As anxious as you may be to get out of the hospital setting, make sure you feel completely comfortable, fully equipped to live your new life, having all the physical supports you need.
PRESSING THROUGH
Over the course of our lives, Craig and I, have admired so many who have embraced sudden life altering injuries and illnesses. Not meaning they were happy about the changes, but they worked through it all with the help of family, friends, programs like rehabilitation, occupational therapy, physical therapy, independent living classes, problem solving, learning new ways to live their changed life. And many of us would say, nothing would have been possible without Jesus Christ being our strength (Craig and I "amen" that!)
The many people we admire, are lives that were changed suddenly, from able bodied, to paralyzed from the neck or waist down, diagnosed with progressive Multiple Sclerosis, or Neuromuscular Disorders such as ALS, and other issues,  they may not have welcomed the life altering events with open arms. In fact, I don't know too many who would. In fact, there are countless stories of those who asked to be removed from life support or have something done to end their life on purpose.  (One huge reason why the recent discussions in Canada, about the legalization of euthanasia, deeply saddens me and many of my peers)  One friend we know was in a motorcycle accident, receiving a serious head injuring, leaving him paralized on one side of his body. He told me once that he was on life support and wanted to be unplugged to die, believing life wouldn't be worth living. This dear fellow continued to share with me how thankful he was that no one pulled the plug. His life was a blessing. In fact, he fell in love and has been happily married for years now. They live together, with the assistance of Personal Care Attendants like I do.

Life has taken on a whole new meaning to so many of us.
I remember a neighbour once that told me in his broken communication that he once was so depressed that he tried to take his own life with a shotgun. Left with a severe head injury, he would never be able to walk without a cane, or speak clearly and smoothly, nor would he be able to write and spell like he did as an adult. But, he told me that he was so thankful that God saved him from his really wrong choice. Yes, his case was unusual and self inflicted but, if you ever faced depression, it can swallow you up if you let it, leaving you unable to think clearly and wisely. Personally, Craig and I believe depression that intense, is a spiritual battle in most cases. I remember feeling it myself as a teen, but thankfully was too terrified of dying. My point is, our friend made it through a tragic, life altering event and was happy to be alive. He too spent time in rehabilitation learning new ways to carry out daily life.
My Heroine...

 Joni Eareckson Tada, broke her neck in a diving accident in 1967. As she faced quadriplegia, never walking or feeling from the chest down, this side of Heaven, she too asked a friend to cut her wrists. Believing the lie that her life was no longer worth living. Thankfully, her friend didn't carry out Joni's request and the entire life altering event, changed her entire life, body, soul and spirit. Her life has

http://www.joniandfriends.org/television/id-rather-be-wheelchair-knowing-him/

been incredible. Click here to meet Joni and her husband Ken. It was her story that inspired me more than a few time through my own life. It was all she went through that caused her, to depend more and more on her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Her life has been a testimony for millions of us. Yes, she is an exception to our everyday lives,  she is an artist, advocate, has an entire organization called JONI AND FRIENDS, sings, collects and manages sending refurbished mobility equipment to many in other countries (Wheels for The World), is married, travels the world, is a public figure, author of many many books, has a radio program....Click her to see JAF. But think about it, if we go through "bad" times, get through it with a whole new way of living, and it helps to encourage even one person, it is so worth that one life. In God's eyes, one person is worth everything. One person Matters.

http://www.joniandfriends.org/television/id-rather-be-wheelchair-knowing-him/

Meaningful Work...
And all these lives, Joni's included, like mine too, are able to be lived out fully, joyfully, even through pain, on this earth, made possible by God. Blessing us with not just friends and family, but trustworthy, compassionate, reliable individuals, PCAs, willing and able to give us a hand so we can live Independently.  What a meaningful way to be employed. Our friends and family do it out of love, for no remuneration. But there have been many who have chosen out of love for helping others, to become PCAs, as a career. Doing what they love, and as a bonus getting paid to do it. These employees matter to me so much, I wish I could pay them even more. (I am restricted by provincial funds). Sure, I have encountered some over these last four decades or so who clearly do not "love" what they do, it's only a jobber a stepping stone to something they believe is "bigger," BUT, the majority I have been supported by, give others a hand because they want to. It matters to them, it matters myself and countless others like me, more than they will ever know. The fact that they happen to be paid for doing something that matters to them, is meaningful, what a great career. No, it will never yield the dollars of a lawyer, Registered Nurse, Doctor...Movie Star or Hockey Player...Thankfully, there are so many out there, who are humble, willing to be "behind the scenes" so to speak. To think when I get to hang out with a bunch of friends, say something like getting married, I was able to show up dressed beautifully (wearing the custom fitted dress made by my loving aunt), because one of my PCAs got me up that morning, helped me get all cleaned up, putting on my wedding dress, putting me in my wheelchair just the way I need to sit...meeting all of my physical needs so I could show up to the church on time. Sitting upright, comfortable and well cared for because someone who isn't into being in the spotlight - made that possible. And each day of my life, made possible by wonderful ladies, who chooses to work for me, knowing that without one of these girls, I would have to live in a hospital. Thank You God!

Just Wanted To Share This Video Link
I Just watched this great interview with Joni Eareckson Tada and Lucy Wedemeyer where they talk about caregiving, especially when the one being cared for is your spouse or family member. Click here to watch a meaningful video.

CRAIG NEEDS NEW LEGS! Thus Begins Part One of The Quickie 2 Adventure!

Watch The Video Above...
If you have read/watched any of our articles and videos on Walking, Way Overrated,  you know that my husband Craig has used a manual wheelchair for almost 30 years and I have used a power chair since I was about seventeen, my first manual chair, an old Everest and Jennings, Lilac colour upholstery one, when I was about eight or so. I am fifty now, you do the math :o)
Needless to say, we have a pretty good grasp on wheelchairs, what's available, what works for folks with needs similar to ours and such.
 Of course, we can only speak from our experiences and what we have witnessed over these many years, with our fellow users, of wheelchairs.

In Need Of New "Legs"

In our province, we are blessed with a program funded by the Ministry of Health, called the Assistive Devices Program. As mentioned in a previous article, they help fund 75% of wheelchairs, manual and power, every five years. As well, one of the other most important pieces of equipment that has to go with every wheelchair...the seat cushion. It can not be just any cushion. The proper seat cushion is meant to support the areas of our fanny that has the most pressure points. The purpose is not just comfort, but, to avoid horrible health events, like pressure sores. Look up pressure sores or pressure ulcers and you will take your cushion type VERY seriously.
Thank You Lord, that because Craig and I have feeling, we are able to make sure our backsides are well supported. We will talk more about cushion types, uses, prices and all that along this Quickie 2 Adventure, in the future. Just do not ever rely on the cheap "come with" piece of foam, that is sent along with some wheelchair purchases. Yes, they are fine if you are say my mom, who had brittle bones from osteoporosis and the chemo, who then fell,  and shattered her ankle and needed surgery and a cast and a wheelchair, for short sitting stints. She seemed fine, but if she had to permanently use a wheelchair, she definitely would have required a medical quality wheelchair cushion.
Back to Craig's New Legs...
Step #1: Seating Assessment: 
As I just mentioned, we are blessed with being eligible to get new wheelchairs every five years. In Craig's case, he has actually been using his for seven years. Mine, is about nine to ten years old. My  new "legs" adventure, may begin next year. For now, it's Craig's turn...
As we have been covering for almost a year, because of Craig's long term using of his wheelchair, he has rotator/shoulder problems. It happens when your arms are your "legs" for long periods of time. So, he was blessed with being able to purchase the Quickie Xtender Power Assist Wheels. Want to learn more about that adventure, click here and for updates through the year, click here.)

If you are interested in hearing more about the beginning steps to getting a new wheelchair in our province, watch the video we made above. Starring the man of the hour, my husband Craig :o)

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Just wanted to share the wonderful experience Craig had on his first day when he got his new Xtender Wheels, powered by Yamaha. Next week I will have more information to share updates on all that has been happening.