A helping hand so readily offered to wheelchair-users

I never cease to be surprised by the willingness of people to offer a helping hand.

Regular readers will know that, because of mobility problems resulting from multiple sclerosis, I use a wheelchair.

Several times recently when out and about in my wheelchair, while Lisa stayed at home, members of the public have been read to offer assistance.

It is never strange when store staff lend a helping hand but I really don’t expect it from fellow shoppers – but that is what has happened.

In a local supermarket, other shoppers have:

• Unloaded my shopping cart;
• Helped pack the goods into the bags;
• Taken my shopping to my car;
• Placed the bags into my car.

On Friday, I needed to go to the bank. Not a difficult job in most circumstances, even when using a wheelchair – but it is not so easy in our local town, Cuevas del Almanzora. Here, in sunny Andalucía in the south of Spain, we have to overcome problems associated with accessibility ramps.

Access can benefit from a helping hand

They do exist but the engineers who make them often miss the fact that they are supposed to drop down enough to make a smooth transition from road to sidewalk. Here, the ramps often leave a small kerb (curb in American English) to overcome. Then there are thoughtless drivers who park across the ramp, making it useless.

Of course, there are places where accessibility rams just don’t exist. Outside the bank being one such example. So, on Friday, I chose the lowest possible step up and, by tilting my wheelchair backwards, managed it. But a passing motorcyclist stopped and rushed to help – perhaps unnerved by the awkward backwards tilt. Still, he didn’t leave m side until I was safely in the bank.

Returning to my car after venturing out, it is relatively easy for me to place the wheelchair inside but it does require some effort. And that’s why, I am always grateful when a passer-by offers to help. Yes, I could persevere and complete the job by myself and, more often, it is what I do. However, when help is offered, I don’t want to appear rude by turning down their kindness.

My desire for independence does not stop me accepting offers of assistance. Do you feel the same way?

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Affiliate disclaimer: This affiliate disclosure details the affiliate relationships of MS, Health & Disability at 50shadesofsun.com with other companies and products. Read more.

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50shadesofsun.com is the personal website of Ian Franks, a freelance medical writer and editor for various health information sites. He enjoyed a successful career as a journalist, from reporter to editor in the print media. He gained a Journalist of the Year award in his native UK. Ian received a diagnosis of MS in 2002 and now lives in the south of Spain. He uses a wheelchair and advocates on mobility and accessibility issues.

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Note: Health-related information available on 50shadesofsun website is for your general knowledge only. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. I am not a doctor, so cannot and do not give you medical advice. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues. Also, consult a doctor before starting a new diet or exercise programme. Any opinions expressed are purely my own unless otherwise stated.

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