I Did a Thing ✈️⚜️
Guess what I did? I flew on a plane by myself! I took a trip to New Orleans. Not only did I make it to the city that lights my soul on fire, but I got to show up when the city was calming down from all of its Mardi Gras festivities. It’s the perfect time to go: the city is still full of so much energy from festival season, but it’s calming down from all the excitement. Life is starting to get back to normal.
I had serious self doubt about flying. Crippling doubt. I was originally supposed to go in January, but that crippling doubt got the best of me. I couldn’t calm my brain from thinking about all the possible things that could go wrong, or all the ways life was different for me now. I had multiple therapy sessions to talk about this.
Big thoughts:
How the hell am I going to fly there?
What about taking my walking aid with me?
Sometimes, I need two aids because my rollator can’t fit into small spaces.
What about showering? I need a shower chair.
What if I need to use the bathroom on the plane? My rollator can’t fit on the plane, so how will I get up if I need to?
How will I get around in New Orleans?
I had so much anxiety. I had real panic attacks about it. That alone made me want to cancel the trip. I was relieved, nonetheless, when my friend told me we needed to postpone the trip because her kids caught covid. I breathed the biggest sigh of relief. I wasn’t happy the kids were sick, but I was relieved I didn’t have to overthink anymore.
Would I ever make it back down to my favorite city?
YES!
Once I was able to breathe through all the anxious thoughts, I was able to get myself excited about going to Nola again. This took me putting in effort on the front end to help calm my nerves. Things to remember to do and/or remember for the next time I fly:
Always call the airline to request wheelchair assistance through the airport.
Pack a week in advance. You no longer have the luxury of running around last minute trying to get things in order.
Plan for activities ahead of time. I am used to getting around on my own terms. Without having to consult with others; I know I’ll get back to that point, but I’m not there yet. Since I am on other people’s time, I need to think through activities so I can let my friends know what I need to do and what I need their assistance with.
Make sure you security check before your flight. Getting through security at the airport is tedious. Having to take your leg braces on and off is a hassle. You can’t stand in the security thing-y so it takes a little longer for you to get searched. It feels slightly invasive — take advantage of the private security searches.
I made it to Nola without any issues. Being in New Orleans was a little bittersweet, because I can’t navigate around the city like I once did. YET! I know I’ll get back to moving around freely sooner than later. Be patient, grasshopper. I am just proud I was able to work through my fear and make it to the most magical city.
As always, thanks for letting me share
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