Tuesday, September 27, 2011

next stage

I'm very excited that I'm about to start a new job as an Integration Counselor. I'll be working with an organization that for years has been devoted to promoting a better life for the disabled, particularly those with spinal injuries. My role will be mainly to offer assistance and guidance to the newly disabled as they get their life back on track after the changes they've faced from becoming disabled. I'm very excited about having been given this opportunity!

Saturday, September 24, 2011

ongoing lessons

I recently spent a day playing tourist in my home town. It was a great experience, but I was aware of many sets of eyes on me, looking at me with a 'not sure what to make of him' look. Even in this day and age, there are always some who still stare, but it's something I hadn't noticed happening as much as when I was first disabled 35 years ago. I'm not sure if it was because they were tourists from places where they were not used to seeing someone disabled, but there were definitely more stares than usual.

It seems there will always be someone to teach...

Sunday, September 18, 2011

go for it

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain. (unknown)

Sunday, September 11, 2011

movement

I'm used to having to fight for things, and now find myself in a situation where what I'm trying to get might not be too much to expect (nice change). This week I was able to take a step back and let people who have things to offer explain how they can help, and see that I may not have to push as hard this time to get what I need. They were patient in explaining what they could contribute, listened to my concerns, and while not promising anything, I was left feeling with a sense of hope.

I'm entering into this with cautious optimism, and a sense of being supported. This is how it should be.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

changes

Life is full of changes, some are big, most are small. Well I'm making a big one. For the last 35 years I've managed with a manual wheelchair, and the last 25 years driving a car. That meant getting in and out of the car in whatever weather there was. It's been getting harder, and my joints and muscles are showing signs of wear.

So I made the decision, it's time for a power chair, and (gulp), a mini-van. Over the past few days, I've been working on seeing the positive sides of this decision. I'm going to be much more mobile outside, and maybe I'll get out more since getting into my vehicle will be simpler and quicker. As for the switch from my BMW coupe to a mini-van, that was harder. I did it by finding a fun little truck that could be converted instead of a mini-van. It's smaller, cuter and cheaper. The only problem is that I found out they aren't available in Canada. Then I found out that government subsidies take up to 6 months to be processed. So my idea of an easier winter seems to be unattainable. Seems to be... so now it's time to figure out how to make this big change happen in a more timely fashion. Stay tuned...