I match canes to outfits too, makes using one more fun. My favourite is a rose gold one which I used at my daughter’s wedding 💜

Be honest Heather 🙂

Heather, my first time using a cane in public was two fold. I was secretly overwhelmed at the stability it gave me. Then I caught the eyes looking at my big blonde done up hair and perfect make up and I looked at my adult daughter and said, " I feel like a fraud."

My mother-in-law told me id never get any sympathy because I don't look sick. She's knows my struggles. I think she didn't want me to be surprised.

Over the years, I'm on and off of a cane and twice in the hospital when I simply couldn't walk.

Id love to tell you it's your journey. Let them judge. But that doesn't help you in the moment. I think there are little ways to take the edge off the public experience.

My daughter and I joke about it. In the stores. Loud enough that folks hear Multiple Sclerosis. I think alot of scrutiny comes from the unknown. She'll say, "Don't worry mom, if your left hand drops it and your right hand throws it, it's a Multiple Shit for Brains day." And that's really the truth. That one liner has led to many conversations with folks.

I promise you'll quickly become physically comfortable with a cane (Get 3 pretty ones - sounds dumb. It isn't). Time will always lend your comfort. It just takes time.

Until that day arrives, my daughter suggests you toss a couple groceries thru the slow check out lane with your new trick hand. My advice is to not be hard on you. Ask your kid to check out for you. Go to the car. The end. Don't spin it. You did great.

Just that you've asked for opinions/ comments is a big win. None of us know " how to have this." I'd personally like mine with a side of KNOWING WHEN TO SLOW DOWN and the butt I had when I was more active.

You'll stay strong. And you'll be an example for someone else. Take good care of you!

I feel you on this. Bottom line in my book: If I saw you with a cane, would I think less of you? NO. So I am going to just accept others will do the same. PLUS , what you think of me is none of my business. If I am drawing an opinion of you by what I see then that is a big mistake on my part and also a loss on my part.

You are you regardless of what you wear or hold on to.

I started out with a cane. I didn't
like to usr it much at first. I felt like i stood out. But i felt more stable.
Then i tried a rollator which work better. The a scooter, My husband was tired of me being at least 10 feet behind. It took me a couple of months to take it to stores.
I still use all, I even have treking poles to use out in my yard and on trails.
I guess what I sm trying to say is give a cane a try. You will find you
will need different equipment for
different situations. I had to figure out my needs then i went to PT and the showed me how to use them. I think if you went to PT.
they could see what works the best for you
The best advise i heard was if you
have a cane it shows others around you that you arent moving
As fast as others and they need to be aware of you.