An Unexpected Three-Wheeling

On my way to dinner last night, one of the front wheels on my wheelchair fell off. I think a bolt came loose or something. It was totally unexpected. One minute I was wheeling down the street at a good clip, and the next KUR-THUNK! I was three wheeled.

When something like this happens it’s jarring for everybody. For me, it’s upsetting because I’m forcefully reminded that my independence hinges on the use of reliable medical equipment. That’s something I rarely think about until it slaps me in the face. And for the people around me it’s often upsetting because they are suddenly faced with a situation they don’t really know how to handle.

That’s why I do my best to set the tone and take control. I immediately go into problem solving mode, and clearly tell the people around me what I need them to do. So when I asked two valet guys on the corner to help me get across the street, and into a chair they had sitting by the valet stand, they reacted quickly and calmly.

What was even better was Tammy’s reaction to my lost wheel when she got on the scene.

She knows me well enough to know that I was not as calm as I appeared to be, and after making sure I was physically okay, she started asking me questions to help me problem solve without taking over. “What should we do? Where is the nearest hardware store? Who has a car? You really should stay for dinner.”

Because we thought it through together, I was able to come up with a good plan fairly quickly that worked well for everyone. And, yes, of course I stayed for dinner.

I was dining with Tammy and Nick (he came to my rescue with his car), who know me very well, Pattie, who I’m getting to know better, and Emily, who I was meeting for the first time. The wait staff hovered closely too, and they heard all about the drama.

Throughout the evening, I realized that everyone was taking a cue from Tammy and Nick on how to handle the lost wheel thing. They were gauging my reaction as well, but in teasing me, laughing with me, and making suggestions about what to do next, Tammy and Nick were actually showing everyone else around us the best way to behave. It turned out to be a delightful dinner.

“You keep it real, Bridge,” Nick said. “And it’s always interesting.”

Thanks to all who came to my aid last night and today. I’d be stuck on a street corner without you! And thank you too for helping me handle embarrassment and potential crisis with thoughtful grace and dignity. Your actions and understanding speak volumes. I am grateful.