The answer to this question is different for everyone. It has nothing to do with being strong, or tough, weak, or just stubborn as a mule! I have been all of those things at various times and I have worked with a lot of clients that were at every point on the need of assistance spectrum. I have spoken to many who simply didn't want to be viewed as weak. I have worked with those who simply don't even have the option to choose! As you read this, please know that I believe firmly that if you have the ability to push yourself, you should. The question is, when is the time to stop pushing and get the assistance you need to keep living your best?
First, everyone is different. Genetics play a large part. Everyone experiences their personal physical trials differently. For example, I have Multiple Sclerosis and live 24/7 with varying degrees of aches, pain, and balance issues. I would like to think it has toughened me over the years. The reality is that as a man, if I had to birth a baby, I would without a doubt pass out or beg someone to put me out of my misery like a lame horse! The fact is, only you can know when it is time to bite the bullet, set aside your ego, and choose living your best over concerns of what anyone else might think. The truth is, people do stare. However, the vast majority simply wonder what is wrong. A very few of the kindest and boldest will just ask and possibly offer assistance with catching an elevator, loading groceries, or whatever the situation warrants. Honestly, in this day and time, people are so accustomed to electric mobility devices that they don't even pay attention. If someone is different or rude, guess what? Their opinion is almost as important as my thoughts on the price of tea in China.
The first question to ask yourself is, What is of the most value to you? Is it the ability to take part in the things you love without being exhausted, experiencing pain, or taking unnecessary risks, or is it pushing your endurance, toughness, and determination to hang on to what you have for as long as possible? Both have a time and place. Both can have a positive impact on your life. But, when you find yourself missing out on who and what you love, it's time to re-evaluate! Life is short! Living your best in the moments that matter is a great legacy and example for everyone in your life and its pretty good for you too!
The second thing you must consider is how your life and the way you choose to live it affects the people you love and who love you. I walk around my house. I carefully walk in and out of restaurants, sometimes with help! But, there are some things I simply cannot do. Walking around cruise ships which are often larger than a football field these days is one of them. I am a homebody by nature, but my wife LOVES to travel. Cruising is our solution of choice for visiting different places (April) and relaxed accessibility (ME). I believe it was in 2018 that we went on a cruise and due to my progressing walking issues we rented a manual wheelchair. It was good......BUT! We were not nearly as active as we would normally be and we didn't explore the ports as thoroughly as we normally do. I was not in the physical condition to wheel myself around and asking April to push me was just exhausting for her. The trip wasn't bad, we just couldn't do all the things we had done in the past. Honestly, with all the available things to do and the fact that I was dependent on April to even go and get a cone of ice cream, for the first time, I felt helpless and like a burden. That's when I knew for sure that it was time to re-evaluate the value of trying to push my abilities vs. being able to live my best for myself and my wife!
When the next cruise came, we rented a mobility scooter. I regained my freedom! When I wanted a cone of ice cream, I didn't have to burden April! We do almost everything together. The feeling of independence we both gained because we didn't have to was priceless! She no longer had to worry if we went different directions for a few hours. It was the best vacation we'd had in a decade! That experience is the reason our company Go Enabled inc. exists. We wanted to help others find the freedom and opportunities that electric mobility can offer. If you've even thought about mobility assistance, please visit our website, Goenabled.com and schedule a FREE consultation. Our goal is not the same as many other retailers. We aren't here just to make a sale. Our goal is to help you make the best decisions at the best time to help you and the people around you live your absolute best!
Be sure to watch the video below. It is an eye opening example of why I cruise with a scooter. Cruising is amazing, but the walking is a challenge, even for healthy people! For the record, this is a video I pulled from YouTube.
BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!
Very soon we will be launching a new division for our company. We are well aware that when you face physical and medical challenges travel for vacations, family reunions, weddings, business trips and so much more can be scary and overwhelming because of the unknown. We are launching Go Enabled Travel to help everyone travel with confidence and peace of mind knowing that your dedicated Go Enabled Travel expert will ensure that your unique needs are met. providing you with the best experience possible. Keep reading our blogs and check the website Goenabled.com for more information!