Should've added--I also am holding on to the hope that it's only a matter of time before I beat this thing or discover it's something else--something curable!

When I broke my leg, I rented a wheel chair. I had a pretty big house on one floor and it was difficult getting around particularly if I need to carry stuff. But I found out that I really hated using a wheel chair in public, because even though I had a big cast on my leg, people wouldn't look at me. I think it might be a good idea to rent a wheel chair first to see if that's what you really want.

Lately, I've been thinking maybe an electric bicycle would be a nice thing to have, so I could go off into the country and see the world, but I can't afford that either.

I have a very nice transport wheelchair that is light weight, folds up and fits into the trunk of the car very neatly. I can lift it myself and it has large wheels on the back that allow it to handle all kinds of terrain. The latter is an important consideration. It was a lot less than $600. I had my doctor write me a script which was covered in part by my health insurance. I feel a high quality (important - don't get a cheap one) transport wheelchair is a much better option for people with FMS. It is a lot lighter and easier to maneuver. FYI, I also have a rolling walker with a seat and a cane.

I don't use my revolving fashion statement every day. It depends on the day, how I am feeling, balance and the level of activity. I feel very strongly that it is important to be safe rather than take a bad fall. It is no ones business if you are in a chair, using a cane or a walker. It is liberating to have these options. I can do more because I don't have to walk if it is a bad day. Sometimes I just push my wheelchair (it has handbrakes on the handles) and use it like a walker. Then, when I get too tired, let someone push me. I'd rather use these devices so I can join the rest of the human race than miss out on things because I can't/won't adapt to the changes that this complex illness causes in my life. Take care.

Thanks for the info, Fantod!

I agree with what you said about options. I feel I miss out on a lot with my family because I'm always looking for a place to sit and rest. We've also talked about walkers with a seat. I do a lot of speaking and book signings (which can require time on my feet), and hubby and I have talked about options for that. He's such a sweet, caring man, he is the first to find me a chair or stool if one is not handy, but to have my own, even for those times when, at church or another gathering, people are standing and talking.

You are right, it is no one's business. And I need to get to the point where I can say that. I care much too much about other's opinions. Although I must say, I think fibro is one of the harder illnesses to be real about as there are so many myths and misconceptions about it.

AnnNy, that's a great idea. Our family had been talking about donating money to this family prior to learning about the chair (they have some hefty dental bills coming up), so in a sense, we'd be getting the chair for what we'd already planned on donating. Although I'm not sure if it's a transport chair--per Fantod's suggestions. One thing I do like is that you can operate it with a stick, as my arms usually get weak and tired so I don't think one I had to actually wheel would be helpful.

Now an electronic bicycle would be nice! :) I've never heard of those.

Do you have a way to transport the vehicle ? If you have to go any place alone, can you get it in and out of the vehicle on your own ?

Just to be clear, a transport wheelchair is a lightweight wheelchair that must be pushed. It is not motorized. If you get a motorized chair, do you have a way transport it and could you manage to load and unload it yourself?

If you don't have a handicapped parking sticker, get one. I have permanent one and it is a Godsend. I don't use it all of the time but I have it as an option on bad days. You'll need one to unload a motorized chair. That is what "van accessible" handicap spaces with the diagonal lines next to them are used for.

I just give pushy people a brilliant smile before I tell them that it is none of their business. They are usually so dumbfounded that it shuts them right up. Disability does not discriminate. It comes in all shapes and sizes. Take care.

Luckily, I am and look older. 75. still, I need help getting around the mall, for example. Need to go to apple store for classes and it's just too far! I'm looking for an electric chair, scooter something..

It's a big problem when walking is painful, limits my life too much and is soooo frustrating. I miss the zoo. and the park. good luck to us!

Thanks everyone! Hubby and I talked at dinner and he suggested I try a walker with a seat and see how I do with that. The first step will be to see if I'm brave enough to use it! He is such a sweetie, though, when I shared how that'd embarrass me, he said, "I'll use it so you have it nearby when you need to sit." And I just might take him up on that! In fact, if I got enough people to do that, maybe walkers would become trendy. :)

I know exactly what you mean!! I'm 35 years old was diagnosed 3 years ago and I wonder what would people think if I was in a wheelchair. I don't need one all the time, but firbo seriously effects my knees, feet and ankles the most. Some days I can barely walk but I feel like I'm to young to ride the scooter at the grocery store. I feel like I'm not as sick as some people who really need the scooter or wheel chair, when reality is I need one for myself. I have the same struggle you do and I guess my pride always wins. I would rather suffer later than have people scrutinize me for riding in the scooter. Oh well I guess I will come to terms one day, just not today.

Meme, I'm sorry shopping is so hard for you. Grocery shopping tends to be hard for me as well. It completely wipes me out, and one day, the fatigue hit so hard, I worried I wouldn't be able to drive home. Because of this, I rarely do the shopping anymore. I'm married, so this is something my hubby does for me, but if you don't have someone at home who could help you with shopping, maybe reach out to others in your community? I know asking for help can be really hard, though.

I also noticed our local Walmart has an order online then pick up service. That might be another option?

I noticed Walgreens also has order online and pickup in store. But, I'm not sure if this is everywhere yet.