I have read many posts from MS warriors inquiring about wheelchairs (power or otherwise), which ones are easy to fold and store, how expensive, whether insurance will cover them and reputable companies to contact for information and ordering.

I have written on my blog a few times about the subject but never devoted an entire post to it.

I first started using one nearly 15 years ago when fatigue became an obstacle, causing me to trip or fall. We purchased a used one from a local health supply store. It worked for awhile, but it didn’t give me much support and it was heavy and cumbersome. 

Within a year or so it was time to see if insurance would cover a custom manual chair. I was measured for fit and it was ordered from a company named ATG Rehab (now Numotion). It was and still is a quality chair that has only needed new chair pads a few times. 

When it was time to invest in a power chair we went through insurance again and contacted the same company. I was measured again and ordered a good quality chair that took maybe 6 months to arrive after much paperwork. 

I was reluctant to use it as it made me feel completely useless. Thus it sat in my garage for two years until I humbled myself to accept the stigma I had invented in my mind. Once I started using it I was shocked by the freedom and independence that it gave me. I could move around my home so easily and could go for walks with friends who I’m sure were relieved that they didn’t have to push me up hills anymore. 

After about 5-7 years later I was approved for an upgrade. We decided to go with a new company but soon regretted that decision. Sometimes cheaper is not the way to go.

I was getting close to Medicare age and we wanted to use my current insurance for a new chair before changing over. This time we used the same company, insurance approved, ordered and on December 31st the new chair was delivered. 

I have to admit, using a wheelchair is not the ideal choice for my life, but it has been the most beneficial choice for my health and happiness.

So basically, speak to your MS specialist, find a reliable company and try to get past the negative thoughts and feelings that can plague your decision to 

pursue life in a wheelchair.