So, Day 10 of Multiple Sclerosis month. My power wheelchair broke this week. I do not have a manual wheelchair to get around until the power one is fixed. It’s been a rough week. This prompted me to start looking for a backup plan.

I do have hand and arm dexterity issues so getting those big heavy bulky wheelchairs would not be easy and not the type very helpful. I emailed my neurologist to figure out if I need to see a wheelchair PT to determine what is good and easy to use, lightweight, possibly can start working out to build upper body strength (saw a TikTok paraplegic working out, she is just amazing and inspiring!) My neurologist says, health insurance does not cover manual wheelchairs if used as a backup because power wheelchair breaks down. This is the most idiotic stupid thing insurance companies do to control stuff we need! How does a government (SSA, Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance) idiots think a person can get around if their equipment breaks down? 🤬

So, a decent wheelchair that is not cumbersome, not excruciatingly heavy, is lightweight, can workout in it, could probably wheel & transfer myself into a 4-door vehicle with a body board, etc., averages to be $1500-$3,000, board transfer, plus wheelchair PT costs. How does a person purchase one on a SSDI income able to do this? Neurologist said, start contacting Multiple Sclerosis agencies for help. My thoughts: Here We Go Again! I have all my Multiple Sclerosis organizations listings. But I kind of know their protocol and limitations.

I thought about setting up a GoFund Me page. I am really not great with asking for $$ especially now with all of the crap that’s going on. But my over thinking brain is debating – if other people do it for things like rescuing animals, helping people with funeral expenses, supporting an individual asking for funds to travel and stay in another country would this be a good idea for me? I think well, it is a medical need, solution for a backup when/if my medical equipment breakdowns. 🤔