We haven't traveled by air since Mike's diagnosis over a year ago. But in spite of some apprehension we're flying to Florida this month. I've talked to the airline and I feel comfortable about the transport chair and boarding. But I'm looking for suggestions on how to manage him in the transport chair, luggage and check in all at the same time. All advice is appreciated!
Thanks - Chris
We asked for help when we arrived at the airport and someone generally escorted us through security, got us to the head of the line, helped with the screening business. I can't say it wasn't stressful the first time, but all worked out.
Thanks, EC. I'm not at all bashful about asking for help so that's what we'll do!
Hi reading that reminded me of the time J took me to Florida in 2011 in the days that he could still drive and walk. Omg the time we had!! I remember he fell over his suitcase at the airport went flat on his face and everyone was saying omg that man has fallen down. At Orlando airport he left me for hours with the luggage sitting on a bench waiting for him to drive round with the hire car, I was sat there for hours thought I would never see him again . How he drove and found our villa I will never know but he did. What a journey that was oh and he nearly set fire to the villa with the microwave haha you have to laugh about it now but it was a nightmare xxxx
The last time we went was 3 months before his diagnosis, and it was our honeymoon. On that trip he fell and broke his ribs, and then fell on the plane. Caused quite a commotion. Hoping for a calmer time this trip.
They are brilliant. All you have to do is trot beside them as you bypass everyone !
Enjoy your trip.
love, Jean x
Honestly, having wheel chair assistance at the airport, IS the way to travel. Surprised first class passengers don't get in on the act. We did it quite a few times, worked brilliant every single time. All I had to do was get us to the airport and the check in desk, after that, we were treated like royalty, until they passed us on to who ever was meeting us, at the airport.
The only problem we ever came across, whilst flying, was Steve needing to pass water. Suggest you take a urine bottle and have it handy, if the plane has to circle for hours on end, whilst the seat belt sign is on!!!
Lots of love
Anne
My love and I flew to UK from New Zealand in 2013. I asked for assistance and a wheelchair. The airline produced the chair as we checked in, bags disappeared, and he was wheeled to transfer lounge. I just had to carry/manage cabin luggage. Was well worthwhile at Singapore on return when he had a mental "collapse".
We had to wait at times in chairs that were not comfy and I could not leave to get a drink in case I 'lost' him!
Book the wheelchair assistance with your ticket, or ring booking agent or airline if tickets already bought
Think you may find it a lot easier than you expect. Only difficulties may be if Mike needs help to toilet as on board they are very small! My love was still independent at the time we went.
Hope it works as well for you both!
One thing to note. We were traveling internationally, so I followed apace behind my hubby and chair RIGHT THROUGH DUTY FREE! and had no opportunity to stop! Sorted on return as I said See ya later and went off on my own!
Hugs
Jen xxx
Wheelchair assistance. Great and you sail through customs etc with their help. No other way to go.
Yes I did the check box for assistance on my recent trip to Portugal and was glad I did. The boarding gate at Gatwick was the furthest.
On my return I was even taken to the Yotel Hotel room that is on the airport with my bags taken into my room and lights switched on.
Even taken to the coach point in the morning. Unbelievable service and no charge.
Patrick.
Haven't used the wheelchair service at the airport, went on a cruise a couple of years ago and Ben refused wheelchair assistance and that made it quite difficult, waiting in queues, people giving you funny looks as Ben was unsteady and I was supporting him I'm sure they thought he was drunk. I'm sure it would have been much easier for us both if he had succumbed as it seems you get first class treatment when you ask for assistance. All too late now as Ben has progressed significantly and there is no way we could, or would want to travel. Get all the assistance you can to make life easier and more pleasurable for you both, enjoy the trip and hope you get lots more.
Love Kate xxx
Anyone have any tips on bathroom usage for a lady. My sister is probably 2 years into CBD and her left arm is now not working at all. Trying to book a trip here to see me in the USA, 10 hour flight. She is coming with her husband and will need help when using the small restroom. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. She gets embarrassed easily. This I think will be her last trip so really want to give her some solutions or reassurance.
Thanks, everyone. I appreciate all of the advice. I'll let you know how our adventure goes.
Please remember to tip the assistant that wheels you around.
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