Vlog: That time I fell down the stairs at my in-laws trying to be independent

So I decided recently that I was sick of not being able to go to my in-laws without my husband. His parent's house is not wheelchair accessible and because of that I have always needed him to carry me in the house. Not only is this annoying in general but my husband is basically a hermit so it means that my kids and I get to go to visit his parents about twice a year.....and they only live an hour away.
I had never considered going on my own before but recently I made some new friends in wheelchairs that told me they bum up and down stairs if something isn't accessible. At first I thought they were both crazy but the more I thought about it the more I wanted to see if I could do it (not that I am competitive or anything!).
I decided that my in-laws was the perfect place to do this and was totally successful the first time I tried. The second time? Not so successful. Watch the video and see my epic fail as I fall down the stairs trying to be independent.

[@Gdesign959]

Dang you’re a rockstar. As a para I would never go through all of that to visit anyone. I’m kinda surprised your family hasn’t done anything to make their homes a little more accessible. All of the family I visit built removable ramps so when I come to visit they put them out ahead of time so I can easily visit. I’m not risking another injury just to visit.

[@westiepower2020]

For some reason, this video showed up at the top of my feed today, so I had to watch it again. Yesterday I'd been sitting on the floor dusting under our AV equipment array. I have arthritic knees (taking MSM for pain) and getting back up is always a challenge. So when I see you "bumming up the stairs" using only your shoulders and arms, your technique, strength and determination gives me a reason to try a different method myself. And then today, I was working on adjusting our front sidewalk stones and I was "bumming" up and down the stairs because my knees don't work too well. So even with a bit of leg strength, it gives me more appreciation of how you did this. Thanks Brittney!

[@westiepower2020]

It’s amazing that your in-laws don’t jump in to help you when you fell down the stairs. They must know and truly understand how you have to do it by yourself to gain confidence. I know in my brain that you need to do it by yourself but my heart would tell me to jump in and pick you up off the floor and into your chair. It’s taken me 40+ years to remember not to help my disabled wife when she is trying real hard to do something with her right hand and arm. Every once in a while I forget and I help her, even though I know I shouldn’t.

[@JamesSmith-pm9gp]

Still one of your most interesting videos to watch! Lots of family time. The really hard-to-watch tumble down the stairs. But all the grit & determination & inventiveness that proves you are an independent woman and truly The Empowered Para!

[@westiepower2020]

Oh Britt, I took your words into practice yesterday. At a cafeteria in line ordering food, I saw a young woman with Spina Bifida using forearm crutches (my cousin had SB). She was behind me so after I put down my food at a table, I quietly went up to her, said “excuse me miss, would you like some help carrying your food to your table”. She said she could probably manage by herself and smiled and enthusiastically thanked me for offering and asking. I went and sat down. Thanks for your teaching Brittney!

[@prahd2954]

A really self confident,innovative and proud mother

[@EmpoweredPara]

I try my best to be!

[@JamesSmith-pm9gp]

No matter how often I watch this video, and I’ve watched it a lot of times, I still marvel at your drive, and ability to get up those stairs, and then into your chair!

[@blackdog850]

Once again, I have to say what a Rockstar! Yeah, it was hard to watch, but you made really good points that totally made sense. Roadtrip with the kids though...priceless! Thanks for sharing! Well done! Best wishes to you and the family❣

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thanks!

[@Robert_N]

One word to describe you. "Inspirational". God bless you.

[@mumu7895]

I’m so mesmerized by you,your so stunning like seriously and your energy is amazing 🙏🏽 go girl😩😩

[@EmpoweredPara]

Why thank you:) 😊 glad you like my content!

[@irenedavo3768]

@@EmpoweredPara add some grab rails! Very easy to do and cheap?

[@bigred1941]

You are correct; it is painful to watch. And NO, I didn't laugh. I almost cried. You are an inspirational young woman.

[@EmpoweredPara]

Are you sure you didn't laugh just a little lol?

[@peterbrown4589]

Loved the video. Spot on. Your whole network is great. Awareness!

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thanks!

[@Lauren-nm2jn]

I’m a T-10 ! when I need a little bit of help but don't want someone fully lifting me I have someone hold my legs and I use my upper body to lift myself. try that ! even your kids could help. the small assistance can make a big difference just in stability

[@richardwilliams1334]

Thank you Ma Ma you have courage and determination, where there is a well there is a way. That sound helps to kill the grunts and growls I'm sure but is there not something else out there more applicable. Thank you for shearing.

[@EmpoweredPara]

You're welcome! I can be pretty stubborn sometimes! Won't be trying the stairs again for a while lol

[@red2775]

@@EmpoweredPara stairs and paraplegics are like water and oil!

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@red2775 yep they are lol

[@davidbrian1436]

I've never been able to walk, and I'm 50 years old now. Watching this wore me out.

[@JennT100]

You’re so inspiring Brit! It is magical watching you get into your vehicle (more so because Jamie is fricken adorable). I loved watching you biffer on the stairs. Your recovery was amaze balls. You definitely don’t need GPS when you dad gives you directions. 💗 Love you much. Hope to see you soon

[@EmpoweredPara]

Lol. Jamie has a future in television as a commentator. She was pretty cute while recording! I am glad my biffer made you smile 😃! Thanks for watching and thr kind words!

[@zaynegrey2219]

Sorry to be so off topic but does someone know a tool to log back into an Instagram account?? I stupidly lost the login password. I would appreciate any tricks you can offer me.

[@kysonxavier5002]

@Zayne Grey Instablaster ;)

[@zaynegrey2219]

@Kyson Xavier i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site on google and im waiting for the hacking stuff now. Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@zaynegrey2219]

@Kyson Xavier It did the trick and I now got access to my account again. I am so happy! Thanks so much you saved my account !

[@arferret]

So painful to watch you fall. Your resilience, strength and independence is incredible.

[@EmpoweredPara]

It definitely hurt lol. No more bumming down stairs!

[@arferret]

@@EmpoweredPara I can just imagine!

[@pamelagettings3746]

I just started watching your videos. You are an amazing woman! Can I ask how you ended up paralyzed? You have two wonderful children. You are so strong and upbeat, I love that.

[@EmpoweredPara]

I was in a snowmobile accident when I was 13

[@brianlowther5929]

brittney i loved and hated it,i so wanted to help you up the stairs but you got there in the end. 100%

[@johnbuschman8815]

Glad you didn't hurt your bum, lol!! Joannie BIG, BIG HUGS!

[@ericaaubie860]

I admire you your so empowered, and independent.

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thanks!

[@hellaSwankkyToo]

yea, nope, couldn’t laugh. falls are funny but that one was tough to watch for so many reason. i’m glad you’re good now + glad this wasn’t the first video of yours i saw. as a fellow wheelchair user my body is physically still tense from watching you fall. 🥺 i had to pause the video for a sec. like i said tho, i’m so glad you’re OK. i really wish you had more//safer access to those spaces. 🖤🖤✊🏾🖤

[@sgtusmc2111]

How does driving work for you, as I assume there are all kinds of things that can be done to make vehicles more accessible. I am really curious about your Van? How do you brake? Your Husband had mentioned he enjoyed driving your van did he have to learn to use your modifications? Sorry for the long winded question. I wish you and your family a happy and safe holiday season.

[@walterhunter4011]

You are one tuff pretty lady. My son is also named Jacob. Love your videos!

[@endtimeawakening5557]

I took MUCH for GRANTED when I was whole and healthy. I used to take 2 and 3 stairs at a time while running. Now, staircases are quite daunting. It's amazing what we didn't "see" before these things happen to us. I'm on a Spiritual journey now that my temporal flesh is failing me. Even the completely whole and healthy will "end" at some point because this flesh is a temporal sojourner place. The Spirit Within You will LIVE FOREVER! ❤️

[@EmpoweredPara]

I'm currently on that same spiritual journey!

[@endtimeawakening5557]

@@EmpoweredPara I found a young man on KZbin that's teaching in a way that's outside the mainstream. It has opened up the true meaning found in the pages of the Bible. His channel is called "The bigsib" and his name is Brandon Sibley. Most don't like his style of teaching because it isn't religious (Baptist, Catholic, etc), but rather grassroots in style. You may want to check him out when you get a minute. Take care, God bless!

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@endtimeawakening5557 thank you!!

[@endtimeawakening5557]

@@EmpoweredPara ❤️

[@coltonmorgan3610]

Absolutely awesome with the stairs forgive my language of a way to kick some ass didn't get up there that's exactly what I was talking about not taking no for an answer nice job chick I'm proud of you for what it's worth

[@EmpoweredPara]

Awe....thank you so much! That means a lot to me to know that you are rooting for me....even if I don't always succeed!!!

[@barbaradaley]

You’re killing me with the sound effect!

[@EmpoweredPara]

Lol. I knew I had to do the sound effect and slow it right down so that people could truly appreciate the look on my face. Such an attractive moment for me lol

[@dylanjackson6514]

New to a spinal cord injury your channel is awesome. I’m a T12 complete since March 28th, 2020.

[@EmpoweredPara]

I hope you are doing well and coping ok with your new injury:) Though I wouldn't wish a SCI on anyone, I am happy to have awesome people part of the club! Thank you for the feedback about my channel! Please stick around! Love talking to new people!

[@dylanjackson6514]

Empowered Para I’m making it. It’s been difficult adjusting to it but I’ll get through it. Thank you. Been researching videos. I’m not the greatest at transfers yet.

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@dylanjackson6514 you will get there! One day you will look back and forget how hard it was at the beginning!

[@dylanjackson6514]

Empowered Para thank you for the advice. I was only 3 weeks married when my accident happened. So my wife an I are both adjusting.

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@dylanjackson6514 oh man. That must be very challenging. Adjusting as a couple complicates things. I know many people whose relationships got stronger after a spinal cord injurybeven though there were some difficult years as they both figured our their new roles. I wish you the best of luck 👍

[@andybernal9690]

Take care super mom, happy mother's day.

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thank you!!!

[@georgetatrai7308]

You are fantastic🤘

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thanks!!!

[@solimarlugo3539]

I'm not a para, but I do use a wheelchair part time, and your transfers are still better than mine! 🤣 I can't drive right now because I faint often, but I'm hoping eventually things will be better controlled and I can go on adventures like this with my kids too! I love your videos! Careful with that booty!

[@EmpoweredPara]

That's unfortunate that you have fainting spells! Fingers crossed things improve and you can go on adventures! Definitely gotta be careful with my booty lol

[@renabuckner8]

I just recently found your videos. I find three very educational for those of us who are able bodied. Watching this video I wanted so bad to help you! Was so proud when you finally made it! I do understand a bit of the hardships those with disabilities have only because my dad was a double amputee. I do say that lightly but because of my dads situation I grew up to be just a little has headed and do my Best to do things for myself. Not at all the same as having a disability but it did teach me how to be independent.

[@EmpoweredPara]

You absolutely have valid lived experience growing up with a dad that was an amputee!

[@tomkearney3410]

I think if you measure that stair set the top one rises more then the others. You had extra difficulty with the top. Code says the rise shall not be more then 200 mm and the difference between two risers not more the 5 mm. With my blended bi focal glasses I would be taking the odd trip down the stairs. God bless you for trying. You succeeded no mater what way you look at it.

[@fdhicks69]

My in-laws have three levels. I did the same over a few days without protection/cushioning and got a pressure sore with seven weeks in bed as a result.

[@EmpoweredPara]

Yeah I haven't done it since! Not worth the risk!

[@nezaroobest7139]

great video

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thanks!

[@reginafallangie2867]

I in fact, did *NOT* laugh at it. I am however, inspired by your strength & resilience. Your daughter is watchin u & learning that she can take on the world, just like her momma!

[@westiepower2020]

As successful as you were at navigating both up and down those stairs, and the confidence you must have gained in doing it, I hope that all future times don’t include a fall, because I was sooo worried that you hurt yourself. When I first saw it, I was an AB a-hole, as I forgot to recognize how independence is so important. I miss-spoke before; I feel like an idiot now. Sorry.

[@dr.debbiewilliams]

That didn't happen to me at my In Laws, since I no longer have any.

[@christieraper5472]

I totally get wanting to be as self sufficient as possible! Is there a reason your parents don't have a ramp for you? Just curious.

[@shadow.banned]

That last step's a mountain.

[@Jaggededge112]

You have a gorgeous family. Also, I need that awesome lift wow, it's so handy. Maybe I can get a va grant to get something like that.

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thank you so much! The lift sure makes my life easier! Definitely look up some grants in your area! Are you a veteran?

[@Jaggededge112]

@@EmpoweredPara oh yes I’m a marine corps veteran.

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@Jaggededge112 I bet there are veteran grants you could find for a lift!

[@Jaggededge112]

@@EmpoweredPara I’m going to look into it, I do know the va will put in a lift in for me but if I can get a great that will help that’s probably better!

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@Jaggededge112 definitely look! I'll browse Google and see what I can find too!

[@dananov9862]

AmAzing! Dont you afraid from pressure sores?

[@EmpoweredPara]

Yes I am afraid to get pressure sores. I won't be doing the stairs often!

[@ananth218Canada]

u are amazing. very inspirational

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thanks 😊. Just trying to do my best with the life I've got!

[@coltonmorgan3610]

I just want to say to you you are doing awesome with the life that you have you were playing the best hand you were dealt I know it's tough emotionally physically and all of that is a normal response to what you're dealing with but remember that you're not alone and you have people like all of your subscribers that look forward to your videos and are willing to talk to you if you ever need it because most of us I feel like I understand what you're going through and if there's a subscriber that don't they quickly will especially when they watch the lift behind video Mercy that one tugs at the heart anyways you're an amazing little lady and I'm always proud of you for at least trying hang in there that really goes for anyone who reads this who may be struggling with their disability

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@coltonmorgan3610 so much love and gratitude to you guys for taking time out of your lives to watch my videos!

[@coltonmorgan3610]

@@EmpoweredPara I read this today and thought about you I read stuff all the time they definitely could modify this for you www.nytimes.com/2017/01/24/well/move/the-right-way-to-fall.html

[@coltonmorgan3610]

@@EmpoweredPara my apologies for my previous comment the link is a good one I read it and thought about you today my phone did something completely weird but I do worry about you falling got to prevent that stuff

[@johnjaco5544]

You are a peach,thank you.

[@EmpoweredPara]

😉

[@Lauren-nm2jn]

by holding my legs I mean I’m sitting on my butt and my knees are bent and the person lifts from under my knees. hope this helps

[@EmpoweredPara]

That is a great solution. I often do that when I am at a medical appointment or something when I need assistance to get to a very high table of something. But I have never even considered doing that with my own family or in-laws! Funny how we just get used to what we normally do. Thanks!

[@joevecchiojr7553]

Might I suggest your husband buys a device called Indeelift. It’s personal lifting device to bring your body to a higher level. I have one and could make getting into your in laws home easier. A Fan.

[@EmpoweredPara]

I will check that out!

[@charles8801]

Hey Brittany, this video strikes a question, is it easy to get some laundry done ?

[@EmpoweredPara]

No it's annoying lol. Kidding. It's time consuming but not hard. I have a video about it if you want to look for it!

[@GAINZonWHEELS]

My b day 42 … that days I can walk .. last b day no more..

[@timothyjones7111]

you have more guts than me girl... i always have help.

[@EmpoweredPara]

I usually do to. Getting brave (or maybe careless 🤔) in my old age lol

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@nay8991 is one of you in a wheelchair?

[@irenedavo3768]

@@nay8991 wow!

[@irenedavo3768]

@@EmpoweredPara read it again!

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@nay8991 lol. I am obviously an idiot 🙄. I honestly don't remember reading your comment so maybe I thought I was responding to someone else when I asked that dumb question! Anyway, I am so glad that you can look back on that situation and laugh. It must have been quite a shock for your parents not only see that you were dating someone in a wheelchair, but see her fall out of her chair lol. Awkward! I would have been mortified if I were her. Glad you guys are still together!

[@colorcreatively]

Brittany, you are so inspiring

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thanks ❤️!

[@jefferylawton96]

Just my personal thoughts. Your in-laws should put all their time and money into making their house wheelchair accessible. What are they thinking?

[@EmpoweredPara]

I sometimes feel that way but it's not my place to judge:)

[@ch-wv8ek]

Vimos no seu vídeo que teve uma hora em que você acabou perdendo o equilíbrio e caiu. Você sempre cai qual é a sensação é se uma dessas quedas você já fraturou os membros inferioriza sendo que você não sente né isso. 😘

[@EmpoweredPara]

Não, não posso sentir se fraturar um osso. No entanto, ele ficaria vermelho e provavelmente o mpat aumentaria, então provavelmente eu descobriria dessa forma se quebrasse algo durante uma queda. I hope google translate worked to translate what I wanted ro say!

[@jackcurtis4906]

Laugh, no - wanting to scoop you up, yes!

[@EmpoweredPara]

I definitely need scooping up from time to time!

[@heatherowens914]

did u give ur mom the present

[@annepinion1032]

How do you stay so fit while eating the kinds of food that you showed here?

[@EmpoweredPara]

80% healthy food and 20% fun food. I also don't eat large portions:)

[@morgancalvi6675]

Long story short...my needing a hip dsarticulation is probably from a fall down a flight of 34 spiral stairs back in the early 2000's. I counted each damn step as I banged my forehead and then hip and kept saying, 'Jesus ANOTHER step!!! Are these ever going to end?' The people were renovating their house and were pissed I put a hole in the wall...well EXCUUUUSE me 🤣 !!! I mean I had some nerve falling and putting a hole in their efing wall...I mean come on, let's establish priorities here. Anyway, I clearly digress and have some anger about that...but I'm glad it was only a couple of steps and not even a bruise. 14:58...THANK YOU!!! My over bearing beau assumes I do nothing and it drives me insane!!! I let him listen to 14:58.

[@EmpoweredPara]

I laughed so hard reading this comment 🤣. That description of you falling down the stairs was priceless. Seriously people 🙄? Next time I'll make sure to pull out my superpowers and pause time to stop falling down the stairs haha. I have had people get seriously upset that I made marks on their floor with my wheelchair. Like really? Some people have messed up priorities in life. And know exactly how to make people feel like crap! At least we can laugh about those ass hats 🍑👒!

[@morgancalvi6675]

@@EmpoweredPara I know, right...I mean people need to get their priorities straight; floors can be cleaned...walls can be repaired...people...sometimes it's not so easy to fix. I can now laugh at the ass hats and the falling down the stairs reaction...but not so much at the amputation. I'm sure I'll readjust.

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@morgancalvi6675 it takes time. How long has it been?

[@morgancalvi6675]

@@EmpoweredPara 38 years

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@morgancalvi6675 oh wow!

[@WheelchairWonders]

I didn't laugh.. There's no better feeling of independence than when we are back in our chair or in the driver's seat of the car. If I transfer to a couch I always want my chair nearby. If anyone moves it I get quite anxious.. (Phil)

[@EmpoweredPara]

Yeah getting out of the chair of the chair is good as long as it's nearby lol!

[@rayfinefrock6058]

How do you feel about having to be carried at times because you can’t walk?

[@EmpoweredPara]

If I am being carried by someone I trust and that doesn't make me feel like a burden then I feel totally fine. If I have to ask for help from a stranger or am around people that I don't feel comfortable around then I feel awful being carried. I think it's easier as a woman to have to be carried but that might just be an assumption. How about you? What is your perspective?

[@rayfinefrock6058]

@@EmpoweredPara I would agree. Thanks for your reply. Very helpful. I’m writing a novel with a paralyzed protagonist. I have someone as a beta reader who is paralyzed, but it’s good to get more than one perspective, Thanks!

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@rayfinefrock6058 Would love to read an advanced copy! People with disabilities are way underrepresented in all forms of media so BRAVO for being inclusive!

[@morgancalvi6675]

If you compare your voice from this video to the ones in 2022...your voice sounds TOTALLY different (much higher now). You might want to check and see if that is a physical issue from the syrinx or something. Back in the early 2000's, I was visiting a friend who lived in an upstairs apartment which was being renovated...so it had those big not so clear plastic sheets...and I went to lean against a wall that wasn't there...and fell head first down 34 spiral stairs. As I counted, I said, 'Jesus, another one...aren't these ever going to end'? They were ticked because I put a hole in the wall as I went around the corner. I mean come on people, get your priorities straight.

[@EmpoweredPara]

check up for my syrinx is coming up! thanks for looking out for me!

[@Athena124]

I can see how you get those great toned arms1

[@EmpoweredPara]

Kinda comes with the territory lol!

[@coltonmorgan3610]

I noticed with your fall there you go way too fast you need to slow down hun take your time around stairs I also recommend getting someone to teach you how to break fall they can modify that for your disability if you have the right teacher if you don't know what brake falling is look it up and that'll keep you from hurting yourself the best thing I was ever able to learn

[@EmpoweredPara]

Thanks for the tips! Will look that up!

[@maryjo8752]

☺️✨🌻🌈🦋💫🌼🎶🎶🎶🎶

[@cpr58]

Ya'll know I a newbie and yeah that's scary to watch. my day is coming

[@ronunderwood8099]

From the outside looking in, it seems like you have overcome it all and have everything under control. The was kind of hard to watch. It’s the first time watching your videos that I have felt sorry for you. I know that’s not what you want and it does no good at all but I am kind tender hearted.

[@EmpoweredPara]

I literally have nothing under control lol. But I keep trying! It's ok to feel sorry for me haha

[@cliffkeller7471]

That was hard to watch. I wanted to help you

[@shadow.banned]

Is this the how you got paralyzed story or?

[@valerymon9706]

Your legs move!!!

[@morgancalvi6675]

I must have missed that...do they?

[@solimarlugo3539]

They spasmed. She has no voluntary leg control.

[@tedwardfox]

Potato salad recipe?

[@EmpoweredPara]

6 potatoes, 8 boiled eggs, onion if you like it Mayo, mustard, maple syrup for the dressing

[@EmpoweredPara]

usually about a cup of mayo, tsp mustard, tbs maple syrup

[@davidvogel6359]

I was worried about you skinning up your shin.

[@EmpoweredPara]

Luckily I didn't seem to hurt anything!

[@christophertaylor7647]

now try that with only 1 hand and youll know my struggle

[@EmpoweredPara]

Going up thr stairs with one hand? Are you in a wheelchair?

[@christophertaylor7647]

@@EmpoweredPara yes suffered a stroke am paralyzed on my entire left side

[@EmpoweredPara]

@@christophertaylor7647 That would be hard!

[@MrYoda707]

It was really painful to see you going up the stairs for me to watch

[@EmpoweredPara]

Yeah lol it's hard to watch people struggle

[@genacrooker9768]

I see your leg looks as though it's. Sizing ? Or something , anyway is there anyway for you to build the muscles??? Just to engage and unengaege(is that a word) if so that could help you sooooooo much I think. ,Yes then you will probably bump all over the place.

[@EmpoweredPara]

Unfortunately I can't build any muscle. I wish I could so that I had more cushion on my butt! I can't move my legs at all voluntarily.

[@tedwardfox]

Also, not funny at all! I almost reached forward to help even though that would be ridiculous on my part.

[@EmpoweredPara]

haha wouldn't it be cool if people could help me through youtube?! I'd have an army to help me when I was in trouble!