In the bag
When packing, bring lots of light layers to
accommodate changing heat levels. And think
carefully about what you can and can’t live
without.
“Anything that’s important at home for your
comfort, convenience and independence, you will
want to take on the road,” Schwarz says. That
could mean a reacher, or maybe a small spritzer
bottle to help keep cool. People with low vision
may want to carry a small light that they can
stash in a purse or on a keychain, or even wear a
camping headlamp. “However, in the interest of
space, you might have to make tradeoffs as to what
you really need,” Schwarz says.
That’s especially true when it comes to your
carry-on baggage. Ideally, aim for a lightweight
backpack or a bag that can be strapped across
your body or wheelchair handles. It’ll leave your
hands free and help minimize fatigue and balance
problems. Likewise, use a fanny pack or a very
light purse when you’re sightseeing.
Planes, trains & automobiles
Marion Farrier, 60, a retired editor in New York,
was diagnosed with MS in 1993, and frequently
visits her family in England. “When I book a ticket
online, I might not be able to get a seat on the aisle
and up front. So now I book my seat online and
then call the airline and ask for the seat I want.”
Today’s travelers may have a long wait at the
airport, however, before they can take those seats
on the plane, thanks to increasingly common
flight delays. Make the wait as comfortable as
possible by finding out in advance where the
closest restrooms, water fountains, restaurants and
other facilities are to your departure and arrival
gates. Look it up using online maps of airport
terminals (
airportterminalmaps.com) or with
smartphone apps like iFly or GateGuru.
Legally, air carriers must offer preboarding to
passengers with disabilities who need extra time
or assistance to board. However, Farrier has found
that in reality they don’t always do this. “I’m slow
and unsteady, and can’t be in the general muddle,”
she says. “So I position myself and go along
with business class. Other passengers and flight
attendants are usually understanding and helpful.
When you have a medical condition, you want
everything to go smoothly, and every little tic
can be stressful.”
“Many of my problems traveling have to do with
able-bodied appearance versus MS reality,” says
Laurie Clements Lambeth, a poet and professor in
Houston. “I recently entered the screening booth
in Portland, and instead of chancing the spread-leg
position, I just told the Transportation Security
Administration (TSA) agent that I have MS. The
floor of the booth is textured rubber, but the foot
markers are smooth. Add to that a weak leg and
balance issues, and things can get difficult. She
let me place my feet where I needed to and to ‘try
my best.’ She was really nice and helped me out
of the booth. I would say that being upfront and
