Another First for me - Yahooooooooo
I had another first today!!!! I was told that I best blog about it, so here goes - another entry in the same week.
I left home and went to the local convenience store with my power chair!! First run on my own since I got it.
When I first got the chair and relocated it to the basement (that's where ramps are to get out as I can't utilize the front of the house easily) I experienced difficulty getting it up the ramps and into the house as my ramps were not "professionally" installed. I was advised by family that I'd not be able to get out and back in on my own. That one and only time, Kristi had to lean into the back of it to give me the added umph to get the chair up the ramps.
Today, I was home alone as Kristi was working. I was going stir crazy being cooped up and not totally independent. As our back yard was finally mowed (after all the rain we've had it had been a jungle and I would definitely not have been able to negotiate the yard) I figured, it was sunny but chilly - good time to venture out. I even put on a bit of makeup too LOL.
Initially I was going to go out with my hemi-walker but thought to self, "Donna, why not try the power chair and see if you can do it"
Not only did I get the chair out the door but locked up the house after and went on my merry way. I did need some assistance from a neighbor (kid that Kristi knows from school) to help me adjust the seat belt so I didn't slide off the chair going downhill. One handed I could not get the darn thing adjusted. He helped willingly (nice kid ) and off I went down through the yard to the alley way that runs behind our house to the main street and the sidewalks.
Now, that main street in a hill and I had to go down it. Going downhill the first time was mighty scary as I was fearful the darn chair would take off on me. When I came to a stop, with the steepness, I could feel the back of the chair lifting up on me a little. As I was unsure how far it would go (it does have the added stopper in the front though - honest so not to tip over forward) I put my good foot on the ground to be an added brake LOL.
After I got off the hill, it was clear sailing for the remainder of my journey. Coming back was even easier. I know as I get more used to it, I'll be a pro in no time.
My first independent cruise and power chair 101 was exhilarating to say the least. Kristi was on break from work and called me on my cell while I was out and to say the least was surprised and happy for me. She wants me to meet her after work, when she gets off the bus from work and we'll come home together. Yep gonna go - 2nd outing and a bit farther of a cruise :happydance: . The chair is on charge right now to ensure I don't run out of "juice".
A song comes to mind..."On the road again....."
Later gators!!
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