Is that a walking stick? No it’s my broom?!?

True story. I was walking into a hotel with my walking stick, and someone asked me, “Is that a walking stick?” TBH, my first thought was, smh, “No it’s my broom!” “What kind of question is that?” Etc etc etc., but then I realized maybe they didn’t know, and I didn’t have to be an ass. After I replied that yes it was indeed my walking stick, the woman asked if I had a few moments and/or would mind answering some questions for her. We moved to the seating area and she began telling me that her doctor suggested she start using a cane, to help prevent falling, but she wondered why some people chose a walking stick. Was it stronger? Was it Vanity? Did she need a pair of them?

I hate that I felt I had to start my response with, “Well, I’m not a doctor, (for fear of being sued or something silly like that) but I don’t feel supported enough with a cane.” “By the time I feel like I’m going to fall, I’m halfway to the ground. A walking stick not only feels stronger (more supportive), but I feel that it allows me to catch myself sooner.”

We chatted for another 10 or 15 mins and I began to walk back to my room. I’m glad I wasn’t an ass and that I stopped to talk. I do remember having to use aides for the first time and being overwhelmed with the choices. Maybe I helped? I hope I helped. As I walked away, I did chuckle to myself that maybe I am going to add some bristles around the bottom of my stick to make it look like a broom. Definite conversation starter wouldn’t you think?

Lately, I’ve been toying with the idea of starting to blog again. I’ve made it as far as logging into wordpress and saying, “hey”. My first step though was logging in and seeing my last post about losing my Best Friend. I would quickly close the webpage wondering how you come back after writing that. Maybe? You just do. Maybe you start with a hello? I’ve done that. Maybe I share what I have been doing to move on for the last several months? Shrug. I’m not really sure what the future holds, other than another post talking about sticks, canes, wheelchairs etc. I do hope to see and talk with you all soon though!