About three years ago my older daughter bought herself a motorcycle: a red, chrome and black Harley. Even though I’m not a motorcycle enthusiast, I have to admit that her bike is a beautiful piece of machinery. Over this past weekend she surprised me with new wheels in the same colors. I’m now the proud owner of a brand-new...wait for it...walker!!!
I’d been in a lot of pain for several days because my arthritic knees were pitching a major bitch-fit, and I was using crutches if I had to move. Crutches are cooler than walkers, I think. When I was 25 years old and broke my knee, I even danced while using crutches. Athletes with sports injuries use crutches. Crutches are young.
But this walker? I could have kissed it when I saw it. I could have kissed it even if it hadn't been shiny and red. It offers so much more stability than the crutches and, best of all, it has a little basket I can use to carry a book or a bowl of cereal or even, if I’m careful, a glass of Diet Coke on ice.
Between the new walker and the assistance of Kim, who cheerfully stayed with me and did the grocery shopping, cooking, and errand-running -- not to mention letting the dogs in and out a thousand times -- I was able to rest my knees enough for the inflammation to subside. Now I’m walking on my own again. The new walker is parked, waiting and ready for the next time I need it. And I know from experience there will be a next time.
There have been several instances in the past few years when a walker would have helped. I’ve just resisted the idea of it until now. It's still a little painful to admit to myself that I'm old enough to need a walker, but I’m really glad to have it in my "just-in-case" toolbox.
It feels so good to be able to take a book from one room to another without having to carry it under my chin.
It feels so good to be able to take a book from one room to another without having to carry it under my chin.
Well, MY walker which I've had since age 39 is also red! Mine even has a seat above the basket so that if I'm standing in line, I can sit! I used it for months and months after my surgery when I realized I could own for less than leasing. And, there have been several times since when my feet gave out and I had to get her out and rely on her again. I love it and I'm so glad to know she's there!
ReplyDeleteHolly, thanks for helping me feel not quite so old. I do find the availability of the walker reassuring, just as you do.
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