Getting In & Getting Out
One of the hardest things to do when you have multiple sclerosis is..
“Climbing stairs?”
No.
“Buttoning a shirt?
Naa.
“Putting on socks & shoes during leg spasms?
Close.
For me, one of the hardest things to do, being blessed with MS, is getting into and getting out of a motor vehicle.
Talk about putting a square peg into a round hole. “Let’s squeeze a stiff, six-foot tall mannequin into a four-foot opening.”
Oh, funny.
No, it’s not that bad. But now I know how Dumbo must feel!
(Although, from this angle, it IS about actual size.)
Small cars tend to be a little easier.
![IMG_0955 Geronimo!](https://www.myoddsock.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_0955-150x150.jpg)
Like my Honda Fit.
Nice and low. I can simply open the door and fall into the seat.
![IMG_0956 Strangling your ankle or lifting your leg?](https://www.myoddsock.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_0956-300x225.jpg)
Of course getting in or out always requires me to lift my dead legs into or out of the car.
(As time & my MS advances, I find myself lifting my legs more than a male dog in a hydrant factory.)
I say small cars tend to be easier—but who the hell drives a small car besides me and the clowns from the Ringling Brothers circus!
Everyone drives big, honking SUV’s and Minivans nowadays.
![IMG_0959 Climb on up!](https://www.myoddsock.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_0959-300x225.jpg)
Getting into these bigger vehicles proves to be more of a height challenge.
“Stepping up” is easier said than done.
Luckily, I’m tall enough to get a portion of a butt cheek on the seat & can pull myself inside.
Then of course is the ceremonial “lifting of the legs” to complete the transfer.
![IMG_0960 Wait for me.](https://www.myoddsock.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_0960-300x225.jpg)
“Danger, Will Robinson!”
The fun ensues when the exertion triggers spasms in my right leg.
At that point, I am unable to lift, move or bend my leg at all.
Recently, a family member thought he could “muscle” my leg-o-steel. He struggled with all his might to bend my leg. I simply smiled. knowing he was fighting a losing battle till the spasm retreated!
Right.
My thoughts exactly!
It’s the little things affected by MS that drives me nuts.
Getting in & out of a car seems simple enough. But throw in a few brain lesions and it’s a whole new ballgame!
Have a safe ride, good buddy.
4 Replies to “Getting In & Getting Out”
Oh, I’m going to try that “just strap me to the roof” idea. I don’t find getting in as hard as getting out. I just sorta fall in, and hope my butt and legs are safely inside, before the door slams. Getting out is a different story. I can handle about a 10 minute ride before I stiffen up like a board. Anything over that time requires a lot of lifting, prying, grasping and groaning to get out.
Oh, this is so familiar! I really struggle anymore as I get into cars. I’ve tried so many maneuvers, and I still have problems.
Peace,
Muff
Karen,
I’m right there with you. Riding in a car kills me.
Being strapped to the roof is OK, but you must keep your mouth closed on account of getting bugs in your teeth.
Muff,
Yeah, it may be a struggle, but you gotta keep fighting the fight!
You go girl.
This is when you need a hover craft like the jetsons, one that picjs you up at the door with easy access and positioning. Sending light, olivia