Answering Your Wheelchair Questions! (Ask Wheels2Walking - Ep.1)

[@lisaakaschmut4015]

I think you hit the nail on the head regarding (internalized) ableism. Even with a disability, we don’t know it all and we don’t understand what others go through. We judge ourselves and we judge others based on where we’re at in our lives. Then years passes and we look back and cringe at what assholes we were 😂

[@StalkAlexHere]

Thank you for standing up for non-paralyzed chair users!! 🤘🏼 I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which causes constant dislocations & I became totally isolated due to my minimal ability to walk. If I walked 20 minutes, I would be in excruciating pain for days after. My quality of life & independence became so diminished that I was miserable. Getting my wheelchair has given me my life back!! I’ve been able to go do things with my kids and for myself again. When I got in my chair for the first time & it felt like freedom, I knew I’d made the right decision. No questions asked.

[@rosinajenkin6478]

Hey, trying to get diagnosed with EDS how long did it take you to get diagnosed?

[@ecologist_to_be]

@@rosinajenkin6478 took me over 20 years and they still not 100% sure it is hEDS

[@rosinajenkin6478]

Sarah Thanks. Guess I still have a long wait been injuring myself from the simplest things since birth, I am 16 now and no consultant even wants to think of a EDS diagnosis. The only one that believes me is my gp and physiologist who has patients with EDS, and a random paramedic who suggested it because she saw me and has a sister with it

[@crystal3897]

Alex Taylor did you start using a chair on your own or did a doctor suggest it? If on your own then how did your friends, family, and doctors react?

[@davidedwards7172]

@@rosinajenkin6478 I knew my what it was for a long time. But, it took about 8 years to get the official word from UAB.

[@alexisjean6191]

Watching your videos have helped me accept the fact that my wheelchair is helping me, even though I can technically walk. I am using my chair like you: whenever I am out of my house, except those really short walks I can do with my cane. These first two weeks in it have been the first two weeks I haven't ended every day in severe pain.

[@en_verden_udenfor_5969]

Yeah 🙆 you are so spot on. This is me. I'm in a wheelchair now after 25 years of walking and falling all the time and really bad Chronic pain . I'm paralysis on the right side of my body from Birth I was walking around all the time and hated being in my wheelchair on trips. So I was walking a lot I had so much pain and no energy for ages . Now I'm full time in my wheelchair and walking a little bit around the house and I have less pain and more energy and joy then I have had in a long time. So I can walk but the wheelchair is my freedom and my best friend and the key to enjoy everything in my life without staying in bed for days at the time because of a lot of pain.. So don't judge it book by the cover Cuz mabye you see the one time I'm walking around that day at that minute or two ✌️

[@Wheels2Walking]

I understand this on a spiritual level lol you seem my “why a wheelchair is better than walking” video?

[@en_verden_udenfor_5969]

@@Wheels2Walking yeah I have. I was so much in the past and wished to walk every day and everywhere. I felt it like a lost that I couldn't walk. Then I watched the video. I loved it. And I loved the wheelchair vs walking video. I'm a gamer and find it so funny. But still I was thinking a lot about it after having seen it. Then I realized your was right walking around sucks 😂😂 it made it easier to accept the fact that I'm now a wheelchair user. I have seen all your videos in fact and many of them "hit some kind of struggle I have been having in the past kinda thing or a thing I have been thinking about" and now as a new wheelchair user your channel is so helpful. Thank you.

[@patrickhatch69]

I use a wheelchair, and I can't tell you how many times people have said to me "you just need to get out of that chair"... Meantime, I just got tired of getting picked up off of the floor. And the sad part is that it usually comes from people who love me. I'm just tired of explaining, re explaining, and apologize for making them uncomfortable..... 😢sad. Your videos have helped me sooooo much.

[@Nykeema-l3k]

Ppl have been saying that 2 me since I was young as if I chose to be in a wheelchair

[@Nykeema-l3k]

Ppl have been saying that 2 me since I was young as if I chose to be in a wheelchair

[@Nykeema-l3k]

Ppl have been saying that 2 me since I was young as if I chose to be in a wheelchair

[@Mitsuki424]

Thank you for your videos Richard. I've been disabled for 5 years with slowly declining mobility and I'm finally getting my first wheelchair very soon. Your tips for using a wheelchair and life in general have really helped me. You seem like a super rad dude.

[@elizabethann5308]

I love you perspective on why you use a wheelchair. My dad fell from 30ft and have similar injuries to you. But instead of a spinal cord injury he has a lower leg amputation. Yes he walks with a prosthetic but because 2 years later his injuries are complicated He still uses a wheelchair if he goes shopping or anything longer. In the house he prefers his chair but will use his prosthetic and chair together to maximize his mobility and effort when we are doing things.

[@esmaraldaa1]

The question about being able to walk and using a wheelchair hits the nail on the head. I have an artificial hip replacement and because I always kept moving with it, I now also have damage in the 4 lowest vertebrae in my back. Because of a hight difference between my legs, I always had a limp, but it made more damage in my body (muscles and joints.) This made it all worse and here I am today. It's not a clear reason to use a wheelchair and people are sometimes just plain rude when I stand up. I started to use a wheelchair +/- 6 months ago because I just couldn't walk anymore. If I did I was dead tired and needed to rest for over a week but because people kept saying, no don't use a wheelchair, it makes it all worse, you need to keep walking etc I kept going thru. But nobody saw how I was after I did walk and stand. I was so much in pain and still am but a lot less. Using a wheelchair made my life so much better. I can do things on my own now and are much more independent. So thank you for talking about this, I really like your videos 😁

[@Wheels2Walking]

Wheelchairs are such a source of freedom of independence for folks like us ❤️

[@lizsun261]

i went through a pain management program, that was supposed to make me "hate" mobility aids (their idea was to conditon your body to not need it). but i learned that no matter how hard i worked in pt, i would be constantly fatigued, i would be dizzy/tachycardic, and my joints would hurt too much to make it through a day or week. when i get in the chair (when im able to self propel, transport chairs make me feel like a baby in a stroller lol) i feel free. i feel like im able to do anything. im still nervous about accessibility, acceptance of others, and lots of other things, but i can do things! and thats huge for me. when i go somewhere in my chair, it lets me save my energy so i can use my "special power up" and enjoy ambulatory things for a short time. im still told to not lean into the wheelchair as a crutch, but i dont want it to be that, and i dont view it as that.

[@AprilHoney]

A lot of us “could” walk. But for me I need bulky painful leg braces and crutches and I can’t pick up my kids and fall frequently and break bones. There are other illnesses besides paralysis that would lead us to a wheelchair. I fell down the stairs carrying a baby trying to fight my neuro-muscular dystrophy before my doctor sat me down and explained how limited I was making my life by fighting the wheelchair. I was avoiding amusement parks and enjoying life. And pineapple on pizza is the shiz.

[@jslferrell]

April Honeycutt-Dickens Pineapple on pizza FTW! Especially on white or BBQ base.

[@kameroc]

In the last year I started having some weakness and numbness in my lower half, been to see a ton of Drs and no one knows what's going on. I primarily get around with a cane, but outside of the house I definitely have to use a wheelchair (I have a generic medical supply store one) since I can't stand or walk for more than a few minutes without being in a lot of pain. Richard, your videos have helped me a lot, in a lot of ways. It's helped me come to terms, and being okay, with using a wheelchair, and explain to my family why I've chosen to go this route. I start my first PT this next week, so we'll see how it goes. You're videos are amazing, as well as both you and Andrew. So thank you guys, seriously.

[@Imjusthere91h]

Hey I'm having the same type of issues I woke up on 19 April 2022 and couldn't feel anything from the waist down and have been to sever Dr's and nobody knows what's going on other than my L5-S1 are both hern6

[@rosinajenkin6478]

I use a wheelchair full time, I am not Paralysed I just cant stand or walk due to pain and Conditions I haven’t been diagnosed with

[@bellabo8166]

If you ever get diagnosed can you please tell me? I also can't stand and walk for too long (1minute and above). People and Doctors keep telling me that I'm faking because I have a little bit overweight but I'm like "Why should I fake it for so long and quit social activities which I never had before and I'm happy to have them now?" I have been to so many doctors and all keep telling me the same that I'm faking. Or even reject to treat me. So really if you ever get diagnosed it would be wonderful if you could tell me since it could be hope for me.

[@RuchamaGrace]

Not all people with EDS dislocate joints.

[@bellabo8166]

@@RuchamaGrace what do you mean by that?

[@rosinajenkin6478]

@@bellabo8166 Of course, I am trying to figure out if I have a Genetic called Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Type 3. People are always saying I fake it as well, I get it. I am only 16 so it might take years before I even get a consultant to even consider it

[@kameroc]

@@bellabo8166 I've had the same problems with Doctors. I've had one tell me that he wouldn't run anymore tests, after only running 2 and some blood tests. And another say "There's nothing more I can do for you". So I definitely understand your frustrations. I've been seeing all sorts of Drs since February, spent thousands (even with good insurance), and have pretty much given up at this point. I'm just trying to live my best life, even without a diagnosis. It's nice to know I'm not alone in this.

[@inuyashafoxfire8763]

I have multiple conditions that a mobility aid helps mitigate, I have a condition that causes chronic pain and joint hyper mobility (EDS) and a condition that cause me to faint while standing (POTS) so I use a wheelchair, I have lost friends and family members because of my “decision” to use a wheelchair. I wish it was more accepted to use a wheelchair for other disabilities but all we can do is educate. Thank you for sharing your opinion and continuing to educate people. I’ve recently just been fitted for a wheelchair and your videos helped so much.

[@aimeecain357]

Thank you so much for validating my experience. I was hit by a car when I was 12 and fought to stay out of the chair my whole life and finally "gave in" 3 years ago ( I am 40 now). My family and friends keep saying things like"when you're out of the wheelchair..." We will do this or that, and it's so frustrating. My husband and son have been the only ones to kind of get it, but your videos speak to everything I feel and u get so emotional because I realize I'm not alone. Thank you!

[@5taceydaisy]

Your videos really helped my parents come to term with my wheelchair use. I’m also “half paralyzed” (which, btw, my Dr called me a “paraparesic,” with paraparesis meaning levels of nerve damage leading to different levels of function stopping short of actual paralysis) and my boomer parents were very “just push through!” because my legs technically still work. But because of the spinal injury causing my legs to jerk fairly severely, trying to walk isn’t just painful, but the jerks cause falls which….not good. So thank you for the confidence in standing to grab that item off the shelf, and thank you for being able to show/explain to my parents what I couldn’t find the words to! I know I’m just one of many many many who you have helped!

[@JeffryLandry]

In regards to aging in a wheelchair, I think you were spot on about the shoulders. I'm 51 right now and been paralyzed since I was 18 and both of my rotator cuffs are shot. Mine started going bad when I decided to get a sports car that sat low to the ground and I am a T4-T5 paraplegic, so lifting up and out of that car ruined my shoulders and cause a lot of pain now. So, keep up the workouts and stay away from sports cars, they really aren't worth it. Also, do everything you can to prevent pressure sores, I've had a couple and believe me, you can get them in 5 minutes but takes months or even years to heal. I stayed active and started college 6 months after my injury and worked in my chosen profession for over 25 years until my body just started shutting down on me. Shoulders and back pain helped cause pressure wounds and was forced to medically retire after spending 36 months out of 48 in the hospital. Over the 33 years, I've been paralyzed, I've had over 75 surgeries, for many various things and now I have to use a power chair and I'm one of the many who are stuck on the pain meds you hear about being so bad, but if I don't take them, I'm in so much pain, that I can barely get out of bed. I hate taking them and frankly, I'm waiting on my state to legalizing pot to see if it will help with the pain and get me away from these meds.

[@gamingafterdark06]

Hi! I found your channel today. I'm amazed that you are talking so simple. I'm only 13 years old and i'm hungarian so sorry for the bad english. I'm a disabled person too. I have SMA wich means my muscles are weaker than other's. You gave me this idea: I'm going to write a wattpad story from my life. I tried to make videos bit I thik I failed at that. I hope that you will see tgis and thanks for all your videos. You gave me hope. Thanks again.😊

[@groot3737]

8:15 I feel like my chair has improved my quality in life because I can do more stuff and see more things without having to worry if there’s a bench available for me to sit at or reduce the distance to where my family can go because of where we parked our car. I just feel free-er compared to what I could only do pre-chair.

[@ianuuk]

Thank you so much for posting this guys!!! This has helped me so so much. I’m 11 months out from my accident and have been really struggling. I’m going to go watch the deeper story to find out more but your positivity and positive energy is just amazing. I still can’t see a life ahead for me yet but I know it’s there. I want to use my skills to help other SCI people in the UK but don’t know how to go about it all. Thank you again Iain

[@AJ-qe5xj]

I’m in a wheelchair sometimes if I have to stand/walk more than a few minutes. I have sever rheumatoid arthritis that affects all my joints and was in a car accident three years ago that broke both legs that I will never fully recover from. I can still stand and walk some, but need that wheelchair assistance for any type of distance like going through a store. It is hard sometimes because of medications and with difficulty moving because of extreme joint pain I do carry some extra weight. People can be very judge mental about why people are in a chair. It’s not always laziness, I wish I could walk all the time.

[@pattyfluegel7816]

When watching the intro I thought "Ugh, this guys just a dumb jock who happens to be in a wheelchair, prob did it to himself doing some jackass stunt. Girls in bikinis, weight lifting, car racing, ugh" But I watched the video, then listened to part of the other guys interview podcast with him and was pleasantly surprised. He's obviously a well rounded, intelligent, deep, likable, and very unique individual. Glad I kept watching!

[@Wheels2Walking]

I love this comment! I’m so happy you stuck around and it changed your mind 😊

[@JadeCanada237]

Something I haven't seen talked about, is the number of medical professionals who are reluctant to endorse the use of mobility devices because "you can walk" or "you're getting around just fine without it" It's not just the general public who often have very set ideas on what conditions "merit" the use of a mobility aid.

[@Larki13]

Yes! I was honestly surprised my doctors and the Numotion ATP didn't even blink when I brought up the possibility of getting a wheelchair. I'd gone from being totally an independent walker but in AGONY after about 2000 steps, to using a rollator and then a wheelchair when the rollator wasn't enough and I was having to use it wrong trying to relieve the pain. My doctor didn't even blink, just "yes!" and same with all my other doctors. I have cerebral palsy. I still walk every day up UNTIL the point of pain but I don't have to push past my limit anymore just to do daily essential tasks.

[@heafnerme]

Hi! I am totally new to your channel and am binge watching. I just hit pause to come to the comments. I have Cerebral Palsy and can walk. I was resistant to a w/c for so long based on the “if you sit down you never get back up” mentality. Then a PT friend of mine said three words that changed my life… “conservation of energy.” It was like a lightbulb went off. This is exactly what you are saying. Why would I wear myself completely out to meet a societal expectation that is the “norm” (walking) if I can conserve my energy for more life giving things?Here is something else too…. Walking with as good body mechanics as you can manage for short times is way better than wearing yourself out all hunched over and out of whack (technical terms there, lol). Rock on! Your content is spot on!

[@cfdmedic78]

The question as to aging in a wheelchair was interesting. I'm 69 years old and only been in a wheelchair for two years due to a spinal injury. I was pretty active prior to my injury and now find myself unable to do the things I once enjoyed. I've looked on KZbin for older wheelchair users to get some insight on living as a senior citizen but as yet been unable to find any. Many of the things you've touch upon has been helpful and to tell you the truth I rather be around younger people anyway. Thanks for the videos.

[@JeffryLandry]

I'm about to be 52 and been paralyzed since I was 18... over 33 years. Keep yourself active and mobile is the best thing you can do.

[@rtlamb]

Ten thumbs up!! I loved this Richard! I too drive a wheelchair, a powered wheelchair. I'm not paralyzed, I got really sick. I too, generally do not use a wheelchair in the house, unless the pain gets too crazy, or I'm totally out of energy. ALL my time is spent preserving what little energy I have. I'm a Tesla Cybertruck trying to run on 4 really old AA batteries. I certainly could go out and exercise for 20 minutes, but it would put me in bed for 3 days. My story didn't begin in one single moment. It took 7 or 8 years before I ended up in a wheelchair, it was a slow insidious creep into my body and my life. I'm 5 years into being a wheelchair driver. It both saddens me, but yet it pleases me greatly. Without it, I'd be 100% housebound. Richard I'm glad you opened your mind and realized that not all wheelchair drivers are exactly like you. All of us should always be supportive of each other. Life is tough enough already! Now to go read "the rests of the story". Thank you for being awesome Richard!

[@MrRooXs]

Now that I'm a full time wheelchair user due to SCI. I think back to when I was walking and say "hmmmmmm it wouldve been good to have had a wheelchair" because I was in alot of pain for years prior to my injury. Now that I'm in the position I'm in now, I wouldnt judge anyone's reasons as to why they do things, because I dont know what they are going through. Cool upload bro, I need someone to edit my vids lol.

[@hillsidefarmer8350]

I'm 72. Until a couple weeks ago, I was VERY active. Now I have an as-yet-undiagnosed problem with my right knee. I can walk, but only for a few minutes - after that, I end up with a lot of pain and a very severe limp. I've been using crutches, or sometimes just one crutch. I've been watching your excellent videos because I realize I might become a part-time wheelchair user, and I'm trying to educate myself.

[@ulven75]

I´m a flexi walker.. After a brain stroke in 2010 my left side does not work, i can walk for a short distance, but my right side compensate so much that i will get in bigger problems if i continue to walk as much as possible. Therefor i use a wheelchair when i have to walk over distances to make shure that i can walk a bit also when i am 60 or older :-) great video.. keep up the good work..

[@en_verden_udenfor_5969]

Yeah 🙆 the wheelchair helps so we maybe can walk a little bit in the future as well 💪

[@ConnyNordlicht]

Flexi walker is the right word f 0or it! Me,too and l'm happy so! Be blessed!

[@Joker_vibez-d4k]

I’m a wheelchair user and your videos have really helped me so much🙏🏾

[@Grayman050]

I am 60 years old and I've been a paraplegic for 44 years and my shoulders are in pretty good shape don't really work out like when I was younger as far as the gym is concerned but I stay pretty active and I work everyday I have a full-time job everyday but the weekend and things are pretty good but I do think I need to incorporate the weights now that I'm older and keep some level of fitness. Enjoy your videos keep up the good work

[@maddyjane3559]

Thank you for doing what you do! I have mild hemiplegic cp and you totally make me feel less alone! I love how you make vids on how to look on the positive side, when pain can really get the best of you sometimes! Also how you educate others who might not know about different medical devices, conditions, etc. I will definitely listen to ur new podcast!! Keep up the great work!

[@StalkAlexHere]

Can we get some “live your dash” & “expect no miracles” t-shirts? 🤩😎

[@Wheels2Walking]

Hmmmmmm 🤔

[@WhaleTank]

Yes please!! Would purchase

[@stefkakratseva4880]

Wow my hat off to you! You are such a cool guy! Honest, funny, determine, I watch your videos with great interest! It is an eye-opening! You have been through a lot but you have managed to get on the other side in one piece!

[@carlein_H]

Luckily I haven't gotten much crap about being in a wheelchair or using crutches, I have a genetic condition called Myoclonic Dystonia, and I have a Hypermobility spectrum disorder(probably Ehlers-Danlos). People (including doctors) often don't'understand at first why i'm in a wheelchair, and i think that's just because people don't understand that a majority of wheelchair users have "technically" working legs but, its safer for them to be in a wheelchair for whatever reason. And that mobility devices are a world of freedom!!

[@rosinajenkin6478]

Trying to get a EDS diagnosis how long before you got diagnosed?

[@carlein_H]

@@rosinajenkin6478 that's the thing I haven't gotten an official diagnosis either, there are 2 EDS specialist in my country and both of them don't accept new patients. And they've never seen someone with a movement disorder and EDS so nobody wants do diagnose me😔. But my fysiotherapist and all the doctors that know me, think it could be EDS.

[@rosinajenkin6478]

Carlein Hollestelle Oh sorry, didn’t read it right. Im so sorry that no one will diagnose you, I have been having the same issue but not with a movement disorder because I have only been diagnosed with Chronic Pain and something called CRPS. Other than that no one even wants to go against hospitals

[@addieloveswheelies5672]

I am an ambulatory wheelchair user. I did fight the chair for many years until I wasn't going to be able to complete tasks outside the home independently without it. I'm 36 and I was an athlete for much of my life... Its a hard thing to accept but I love myself and I'm going to do whats best for me. The day I had the ability to go as fast as I wanted again I knew I should have started using a chair in 2000. My medical choices should never have been based in social pressure but they were. I have a prescription for my chair and legit reasons to use it. I have autoimmune disease and I was in a multi roll car accident as a teenager that destroyed my ankle I should have had a chair long ago. The backwards thing about people who say you shouldn't use a chair then give you shit for walking is I walk as much as I can stand w/o hurting myself (something I have discussed with my doctor) in order to keep the use of my legs for as long as possible but to them I'm suppose to either walk or roll but not both. Theres little logic in that. I am proud of myself today for choosing life in a chair. If anyone thinks it makes you lazy or its a weaker option they can try using your arms for legs all day and say that again. Don't let peoples archaic ideas stop you from living your best life. If you feel a chair would improve your life don't wait to get a prescription or permission from anyone just go for it. Give yourself every opportunity to get you back.

[@matthewwilson9749]

I love my power chair. Very freeing. Embrace the change.

[@LittleChestnutBigBay]

On the subject of being able to walk but using a chair, I have sooo many people saying “oh it’ll be good if you can get some meds where you can just walk round again” and I’m like well yeh actually I wobble round the house without even a stick when I can but I’m not going to take 3 hours to get round a supermarket and use all my energy on getting a loaf of bread when I can just nip in in 5 minutes and not be in any pain and then be able to do multiple things a day then yas, but as you said society sees it as such a bad thing and like walking is the be all and end all of life. Of course I would LOVE to be able to walk round like everyone else (aka no pain and no wonky ass gait) and that’s another thing people don’t get. I am still so so jealous of everyone who gets to live a ‘normal’ life (mobility wise lol don’t jump on me) but that doesn’t mean I’m going to force myself to do that just because society tells me that the wheelchair is a bad thing, it actually gives me a life beyond my house! Moral of the story is keep ya nose out of other people’s business 😊

[@abilitease]

As always a solid video with really valuable information. Thanks for taking the time to make it and for Andrew doing the editing!

[@amandabrank4652]

I had an ad come on for an app that shows all accessible places in cities!! Great video as always!

[@Andrewdeitsch]

I woke up too late for the notification squaaaaaad

[@neilwilken60]

Thank you for the video buddy

[@ohamazon1829]

Dude you are a amazing person keep going you got it keep pushing 😂

[@jwilleseries7764]

I like to hear this being brought up. I really don't like walking at all. Whenever I walk or just stand up for a normal ammount of time then I am always in pain so that's why I don't like to walk. I am going to check up whats going on with my body because these types of leg pains have been going on for over a decade and they are getting worse. So I understand why a lot of people are using wheelchairs instead of walking with pain

[@silkedavid8876]

re why use a wheelchair if one is not paralyzedNo-one will use a wheel chair for the fun of it, due to the perception by society, the difficulties navigating through buildings, streets, etcGood episode!

[@WholeFoodSpark]

THIS!!!!

[@ilichiregius2884]

As always, another awesome video from Richard and Andrew. It's very interesting how you started out not knowing each other to becoming a collaborative team.

[@steveaustin3160]

Thank you for your help

[@shtulzzz5879]

9:27 Put a fire track on that and zoom in producer's face. I couldn't not notice that

[@albertdumaran9363]

Have you heard of the speedycath compact set? it makes cathing easy

[@gabriellemaria671]

You should do a wheelchair challenge with andrew

[@WhaleTank]

Would love to see a collab with Zack and Cambry from Jerry Rig Everything.

[@zacka161]

One thing to note on the eating and maintaining weight side is that in a wheelchair you don’t inherently burn as many calories as people not in a wheelchair. This is because of the reduction in muscles/muscle groups being activated at any one time. A wheelchair is colorically a really really efficient machine (it’s why cars have wheels and not legs, legs are quite inefficient from an energy usage point of view). This means that diet is far more important. I lost a bit of weight (about 20 pounds) and all I can say if it’s weight loss you are after - track track track track. Keto also works well as it encourage your body to burn fat directly, which is more difficult to remove through exercise due to the above. But that only works if you track it. I limited myself to 1400 calories and zero packaged food and tracked precisely for 3 months. After that when maintaining I’m able to guesstimate based on the tracking and use intermittent fasting occasionally to help eliminate bloating

[@Wheels2Walking]

Yes yes yes! Tracking is the most foolproof way hands down.

[@damianandmollieallen3506]

I have ehlers Danlos syndrome and pots and sometimes I can walk, sometimes I can use my manual chair and other times it's my power chair. Life is funny that way😆

[@eduardopadilla5505]

Great video Bro!

[@anneharrison1849]

I'm a part time wheelchair user. Today I went shopping and decided not to use my chair because the rims were cold, bad decision, I'm in pain now that I didn't need to be in, I could be doing something instead of lieing in bead watching this youtube video. A wheelchair has been massively enabling for me, I've done so many things in the last 5 years I couldn't have done in the previous 5 years.

[@RubyGloomy]

You can get rim covers made of silicone or vinyl I have vinyl ones they work great really help you push as you don't need to grip them plus bonus of them being warm might be worth a look

[@anneharrison1849]

@@RubyGloomy yeah I've seen them, but when browsing products and trying to decide I then find more products claiming to do similar things and people raving about almost all of them and people hating on almost all of them, so it's close to impossible to make a decision. Plus they seem really expensive compared to other comparable products for none disabled people, which kind of annoys me.

[@RubyGloomy]

@@anneharrison1849 yeah they are expensive for what they are hubby calls the huge mark up on disability equipment the cripple tax because if you weren't crippled the price will cripple you A possible lower cost thing could be grip tape but it wouldn't be as smooth hope you find something that works for you

[@sandysamfly]

thank you I,m going to be in a chair soon as my pain has got too mush to walk .hugs and love .

[@HParadoxa]

I was going to right an emotional comment about how I was look forward using a wheel chair and what you were saying we're really helpful but then you talked about pineapple and I got even more happy about the pineapple thing because it's so good so here we are

[@TORITHEGUMMYBEAR]

This reminded me of when I was back in middle school and high school and i used to have my teacher hunt me down and beg me to use my wheelchair. I always had a wheelchair in case I needed it at school due to my chronic pain conditions and bone issues/abnormalities, but I was too embarrassed to use it back then. My teachers would see me struggle during school and try to talk me into using the chair more regularly. I'm glad they were so supportive and acknowledged my struggles, possibly even more than I did myself at that time in my life. I can still walk and stand to an extent but I definitely use my wheelchair for social excursions and school now more than ever.

[@DockerysdreamDolls]

thank you

[@bjcronje]

This was a very good video, thank you so much guys. I'd like to get in touch with you to get some advice on how to get my life story out there and to get my voice heard

[@HFMWheels]

I love this video and your shirt Richard

[@indianflower]

Thanks for both of you 🤗

[@christianlorre]

I have a question. Do you wear baggy pants and shoes that are too big? A different KZbin video suggested if you need a wheelchair you should always wear loose clothing and shoes two sizes too big in order to avoid bed sore type skin problems.

[@Wheels2Walking]

Check out my wheelchair fashion video called “hospital clothes suck”

[@cass_p]

I don't understand the logic of some of those hate comments. Like, do they think there's a scarcity of wheelchairs and you're holding up the queue? People baffle me. Sure, I could stop using my chair, but I'd also have to stop leaving my house. Your comments around the 11 minute mark sums it up well - when I got my first chair (a clunky tank of a thing off amazon) I was just gobsmacked by how amazing it was to move around under my own power. It was like falling in love, truly. Sure, busted pavements and stairs and other barriers exist, but I'll gladly take them. Someone who doesn't need a chair would never put up with that stuff.

[@annettesuterswiss]

I have been an ambulatory wheelchair user for 6 months due to myopthy, muscle weakness in my legs. Since I have had a wheelchair I am much more options to go out, to meet ppl, to be independant. I have more energy left to do some walking in my neighbourhood and do PT and go to the gym, and walking gets easier- without crutches. Just 200m, but still 200m. I like I am able to walk again, it is like worth more than when I did longdistance walking.

[@saafewolf69]

Have you ever thought of (or even heard of) getting the Artificial Bladder Sphincter to replace your need for cathing? I was born with Spina Bifida (L4 paraplegic) and thankfully when I was 3 1/2 trs old my parents opted for me to get it and I am happy with that decision. The Dr. that invented it F. Brantley Scott also invented the Penile Prosthetic at about the same time.

[@dvssayer5621]

I'm wondering how you actually were able to walk again? From all your hard work at it? Being still young? or did somehow did your nerves come back or heal? I love how far you've come through all these things you've been through!

[@dhruvgeorge]

I've been in a wheelchair since I was 8-years old and I'm 24 now. Sadly I live in a country where the amenities for wheelchairs are WAAAAAAAAAYYYYYY too few. I was diagnosed with Spina Bifida since birth but used a stroller/was carried around until I outgrew the stroller and became too heavy to carry around. So my folks have decided to buy a wheelchair

[@RubyGloomy]

I love your tshirt its fantastic great vid as always I couldn't imagine just 1 day out of the blue not being able to walk etc it was gradually for me you just get used to adapting and avoiding till you can't and that was hard still is as I'm still loosing ability it really is is helpful seeing your videos as it makes me realise that I can rather than just not doing it and hiding

[@DKofDAH]

I‘ve just found your channel and it’s amazing. I’m a incomplete quadriplegic myself and i find me in a lot of the situations you describe. Thanks for all the motivation and inspiration. By the way: have you ever tried the speedicath from coloplast? They extend so they‘re much easy to carry around. Keep up the good work!

[@robinartemis8695]

I am 49 and have Spina Bifida. I am as active as I can but my shoulders and back are waring out.

[@Nykeema-l3k]

I understand exactly what you mean. Spina bifida can be a bitch some time

[@patrickhatch69]

I have lymphedema, arthritis, and fibromyalgia, I call them the 3 angry cats thrown into a bag together, and my body is the bag.

[@whatthehelliot]

pineapple and jalapeño pizza is so good!!!

[@anntunaley9974]

I don’t eat processed or packaged/canned foods either. Only Whole Foods. I’m in unbearable pain but refuse to stay in bed waiting to get old and die.

[@redsorgum]

As always, your content is interesting and informative. Right now, I'm not in a wheelchair, but I'm dealing with some disabilities that has made me make changes in my life. When it comes to using a cane or elbow crutches, I'm also in the option category.

[@vividdawn913]

If you like sweet and salty stuff, try pineapple AND anchovies. I love the little fishes!

[@MikeS1944]

I’m a 79 year old man who is loosing use of his legs due arthritis of the spine. My question is how/where can I go to get a chair similar to yours?

[@markharrisllb]

I’m a lot luckier than yourself, I was 49 before becoming disabled. I’m 59 now and well within my 5 years of dying. Unfortunately with my disability there is no option of moving more as at my baseline I only have 18% lung volume and no it can’t be increased by exercise. My disabilities affect my entire upper body though they impact on my lungs the most. I was really embarrassed about using my scooter to begin with, and I’ll fight to my last breath (pun?) not to use a wheelchair until I have no choice. However, I have to say without my scooter and hoist I’d be lost and I can only walk a few meters without extreme pain and breathlessness. Sitting is also extremely painful and I haven’t sat down in a normal chair or sofa at home for 3 years. I tend to stand and rock from side to side, as I can’t stand still either. At home I have a sit-u-up in my bed and it’s there I find most comfort. I’ve had a special chair made at work but my desk rises so I can stand at it. As you say if it helps, use it. My wife is hemiparuplegic paralysed down her right side, without her I think I could have given up by now. I very nearly didn’t have a relationship with her at all, she’s stunning, fifteen years younger than me and has had problems with an older man stalking her. I didn’t have that confidence anymore, charm has always been my way with the ladies, but charm and puffing and panting don’t go together. Also I'm not a handsome dude like yourself. Thankfully she had the sense to ask me out. She is the greatest inspiration I've met, made all our Christmas cards, bought and wrapped all our presents one handed. She can even thread a needle one handed. We met volunteering at our local Disabled Peoples Organisation where I now work, being in the middle of a group of positive thinking disabled people is amazing. I can’t hold down a full time job, in fact I’ve been off for the last 6 weeks, but the 12 hours I do give me much more than money. In fact with our benefit system in the U.K. I lose out considerably. If you’re disabled and feeling isolated consider voluntary work, it gives you much more than you give it. I’m also a recovering alcoholic and one day at a time I will have 25 years of sobriety next month. I lost my three closest friends all of whom I met in the AA within 18 months in the early days of my disabilities. They all had respiratory difficulties leading to their deaths. I miss them daily and my best friend never met my wife, but I know he more than approves as does my late sponsor. I also know 12 step programs well and I wouldn’t be here at all but for them. When I was drinking a doctor told me I wasn’t going to live to be 40. Not "if you don’t give up drinking", it was straight out "you will die before you’re 40". I am determined to make 60 in June. I have more than most to be grateful for. Becoming disabled isn’t the end of everything, there are many things we can still do, even if it’s in a modified way. Even 'that’ though between two disabled people it can be funny, but always truly loving. Disabilities can however be a whole new beginning, seeing the world through different eyes. Disabilities aren’t a competition either. My late best friend's partner, who left us a couple of months ago, had cerebral palsy and was another wonderful friend. My disabilities aren’t visible and I actually used to say to Steve "I'm not properly disabled, not like Judith." It makes me cringe to admit it now, but such was my denial and I was always going to go back to work next week. That never did happen with that job. Even though they let me go with great dignity I blubbered like a baby when I lost that career. It took me a long time to accept that even though all my limbs worked and I had cognitive abilities that I was in fact disabled. I didn’t fit onto my subconscious hierarchy of disabilities so I couldn’t do obviously I wasn’t! Unfortunately the exact opposite was true. This was a superb video, hopefully you will see through my comments that I got a lot of identification. Have a wonderful Christmas and enjoy the festive eating.

[@davinder231978]

I am a wheelchair user ...and all i heard about me is i am the needy..i am a burden ...i am undesirable...my siblings dont say it directly but they show in their actions .they take decisions of my life and when that thing backfires they blame me for everything ...i don’t know how to deal with that

[@Shifty51991]

One thing you should think about is that medicine and technology is only going further and further.......hover chairs ;P (like baby yoda's capsule thing)

[@aliengreen9173]

You look great. Curious, have you watched the documentary "The Game Changers'? Its about athletes and eating a plat-based diet, how that affects your health. Since you're so into health I think you may enjoy it.

[@groot3737]

8:43 agree 100%.

[@brandonm4344]

I’m in a chair now, not able to stand or anything yet. Dude your a inspiration, awesome guy. I don’t understand why people gotta bi*** about everything.

[@SaigeUlfhrafn]

Chicken, Bacon, Jalapenos, Pineapple!!! My Go to PIzzzzzzzaaaa.

[@erilassila409]

Who are your favorite comedians? I really like Steve Hofstetter,since his comedy videos on KZbin have subtitles on them.It's sometimes hard for me to watch stuff without subtitles because of my auditory processing disorder,but Steve's subtitles (and obviously the videos themselves) are really good.

[@rackemwells]

Have I missed the video where you discuss your drug use more? You often mention it but in a very general way. Drug addiction, drug use, etc etc, but I’m curious about it. What drugs and why those? Did you have a past with drugs or never experienced them until injury etc? What benefit did they bring to you, in the moment of course? In hindsight sure they were bad, but in the moment it made sense and brought relief. I hope to hear back!

[@ChronicallyZanny]

PINEAPPLE ON PIZZA ❤❤❤❤❤

[@GAINZonWHEELS]

I’m prepare for my first bodybuilding competition in wheelchair, after 30 years bodybuilding normal … I wil Dutch champion again 😉

[@islandvibe3855]

How do you manage your medication? I’d love to ween off the baclofen let alone all the muscle relaxers. Are their alternatives? C4/5 incomplete btw, Thanks

[@Wheels2Walking]

Check out my pain management video!

[@tracythompson4798]

Can you show older people in wheelchairs. I am 56 and not anywhere nears as strong. I was never taught transfer. Severe MS, wheelchair about 2 years I can stand.

[@nadiatheprincipal6581]

Hey where’s the vid of you getting a new wheelchair

[@WarBeardTheRed]

Do a video on navigating insurance companies. Or ways to find funding for a Wheelchair or ramp for your home. I use a hand me down hospital chair that is designed for someone half my weight. I keep putting bills and family ahead of saving up for a chair that can handle my weight. I spend way too much time in bed depressed.

[@brianl2035]

Have you tried researching disability organizations in your area? There are many throughout the US that will help. Also, if you don't mond me asking, do you live in, or close to Pennsylvania? I asked because I do have a extra power wheelchair. It does need a little minor work, such as new batteries, and the controls on the armrest needs to be secured down (only a couple of screws), but if you live close to Philadelphia, or can find a way to pick this chair up, you can have it.👍

[@WarBeardTheRed]

@@brianl2035 Thanks for the offer but I live in Arizona. I'm new to the Wheelchair world so I'm kinda just starting to research different options. I'll find something.

[@aleishagrigg2987]

I have cerebral palsy and can't walk but people useally assume I can't feel parts of my body there are so many reasons why somebody may usea chair walking or not

[@harpreetmann4555]

Epic

[@DonnaLane-pw4rg]

Sir I have questions about wheelchairs I made comments on your pages, right now I am kinda like you I can still Walk but as I stated I have Rheumatoid arthritis, SLE Lupus, and very mild case of cerebral Palsy, the doctors specifically told my parents that I would never Walk on my own, cuz of the Cp from the age of 3 or 4 years old told my doctors I know when or how but I will Walk out these fuugly shoes @ the Shriners Hospital In Big D.. 3weeks before I turned 15, I took My first steps I was walking unto parallel bars ( hanging on them) In a few days I'll be 59! But these doctors also stated that by the time I turn 40 yrs old I will be In a wheelchair cuz I wouldn't have enough muscle mass to remain walking... The RA and the lupus leaves me fatigued, my doctors now tell me that exercising goes like swimming, walking, and yoga, thi chi and that's it. How can I the physical strength built back up without doing further damage to my joints, Ohh yeah I forgot about the bicycle riding.. Thank you for your help and guidance and consideration Respectfully yours, Donna Lane Kingman Az USA ❤❤❤❤😂😂😂

[@BurtKwouk77]

Thank you for your insight. I have recently been diagnosed with FND and this afternoon I was measured for my first wheelchair. Your videos gave me a good insight in to wheelchair use for non paralyzed people and a nudge in to buying one.

[@georgecurtis6463]

Are you involved in access issues ? Are you involved in your city and state access issues ? Or do you think all our rights are just given to us ?

[@georgecurtis6463]

Pineapple ? Why ?

[@joanmcgilton5075]

My husband pushes me in my wheelchair I told my husband we should save up so I can get a power wheelchair then he doesn’t have to push me in the wheelchair My husband has to use a crutch because he got hurt at work several years ago. He said power wheelchairs cost to much and he said I will walk again. I really pray that I will walk again. I just wish I could do things on my own and not have to depend on my husband.

[@laurigiepmans]

I don’t know if you have use of your arms, but maybe a smartdrive is a in between cheaper option?

[@joanmcgilton5075]

I’ll have to research on a smart drive My arms ok they work but they hurt too. This summer I will go to my pain management Doctor and hopefully my Pump will have enough Rx in it so I can do therapy. So hopefully I’ll have my independents

[@yunhee93]

I have cerebral palsy and can walk with a walker In the public but don't because I might fall

[@andytaylor1588]

Pineapple or anything else that I decide to put on pizza, BELONGS on pizza. And I'll make the 'crust' outa cauliflower whenever I feel like it. A pox on the haters.

[@Wheels2Walking]

Pizza is the most diverse food on the planet because you can put whatever you want on it! I love me some pizza 😍