From the article: Safe Driving Must Not Be Compromised by Osteoarthritis Patients
Did you struggle with the realization that you should have a handicap parking permit? Did you fight it for as long as possible -- not wanting to admit you were "disabled"? At what point did you give into it, discuss it with your doctor, and apply for your handicap parking permit?
How has it helped you to have a handicap parking permit? Does it conserve energy so you can do more and do it safely when out in the world? Do you have any advice for others who may be balking at getting a handicap parking permit?
Share Your StoryChange in jobs
- I was always adamant that I would not get a handicap placard, even when my mom and friends begged me to get one. Finally, when I changed jobs I realized I needed one because with my new job I would be shuttling between two locations. Everyone has to pay for annual parking at my work. At the "satellite" location, I requested for a reserved parking spot so I have to pay additional parking fees. When I meet with my supervisor at the "main" location, I would have hike at least a mile or two to the building. My RA is active in my hips, knees, and feet. So, I finally caved in and requested a placard from my rheumy. He said "FINALLY!" :-) It has been a godsend to me. I still don't use it except when I'm going to those meetings because I know I will need it full-time one day...I'm just not ready for that day to come yet (even if it is knocking on my door).
- —texaskajun
Placard time
- Actually, the doctor offered it. I am so limited in walking that I knew it was time. I should have gotten it sooner.
- —Guest Vger
Exhaustion!
- Exhaustion is probably the main reason I applied, but having just had a 3-month long flare that involved most joints in my legs, ankles and feet also had something to do with it. I was beginning to walk more and more with that stiff, "peg-leg" kind of walk. Of course, I fought with myself for a long time wondering if it was a form of "giving up." I also didn't want to have to justify to self-righteous people why I'm parking in the disabled parking spot. And I was afraid to ask my doctor, thinking that I didn't have things nearly as bad as other people I know. It really didn't all click for me until I realized that I was going out to my car more and more frequently for a "power nap" while still at work. Exhaustion finally did me in and I made the decision to apply for a placard. I suppose I just want to spend my energy more wisely now because it's in limited supply. But, I still plan on limited usage. Just because I have it doesn't mean I NEED to use it!
- —kerlands
Rhumie visit
- I have RA and was visiting my rhumie at a big city hospital. The parking garage was at the east end of the hospital and doctors office at the far east end. Now I use the free with tag valet parking and let young men run for my car.
- —atulli
