Medical Realities on the Road: Managing Wheelchair Activities

Behind every smiling photo of us on a mountain peak is a complex web of medical logistics. Kellisa lives with Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, and Hydrocephalus. Managing these conditions is part of our daily life, even when we are traveling. We have learned to balance serious medical needs with our desire for wheelchair activities. We refuse to let a diagnosis confine us to the house.

Nutrition and Hydration in Wheelchair Adventures

Kellisa receives all her nutrition through a G-tube. Surprisingly, this is an asset on the trail. We don't have to worry about packing specific foods; we just pack formula. We can hydrate her while moving, ensuring she stays strong. We have mastered the art of tube feeding in cars, tents, and on mountain summits. It gives us the freedom to keep going.

Seizure Management during Wheelchair Activities

Epilepsy is a constant companion. We have had to manage seizures on hiking trails and in hotel rooms. We carry rescue medications and have a protocol in place. We always know where the nearest hospital is. Being prepared for the worst allows us to hope for the best and continue our adventures with confidence.

The Therapeutic Power of Wheelchair Adventures

We believe that nature is the best medicine. The fresh air clears Kellisa’s lungs, and the movement stimulates her muscles. Her doctors are often amazed at her resilience, which we attribute to her active lifestyle. The trail provides a vitality that cannot be found in a clinic. It improves her mood and her physical health.

Building a Support Team for Wheelchair Activities

We rely on a team of doctors who support our vision. They help us plan for travel and give us the green light to go. We also lean on our family for support. It takes a village to raise a child, and a team to hike a mountain. Having people who believe in us makes all the difference.

Hygiene on the Go in Wheelchair Adventures

Keeping clean on the trail is a challenge. We carry supplies for skin care and hygiene. We create clean zones wherever we are to prevent infection. Maintaining health is crucial to keeping the adventure going. We are diligent about care, even when covered in trail dust.

Emergency Planning for Wheelchair Activities

We never hit the trail without a plan. We carry a comprehensive first aid kit tailored to Kellisa’s needs. We have evacuation routes planned for every hike. Knowing we can handle an emergency gives us the peace of mind to venture far from civilization. It transforms fear into preparedness.

Conclusion

Medical complexity is a heavy load, but we carry it gladly. The experiences we gain are worth the effort. We have proven that high-level care can happen anywhere.

We hope our story inspires other medical families. With the right preparation, wheelchair adventures are within your reach. Pack your meds and hit the road.