I decided to stay home today in order to mow this huge overgrown mess of a property, rather than wait until tomorrow. It has rained for about a week now, so it will take awhile, but I like the look, and smell, of fresh mown grass when it's finished. I have chores to do at the, currently vacant, rental property but will finish those tasks tomorrow and attempt to find a good tenant before we leave for Germany. This renatl is looking good with the new bathroom tile, and has been a good property for us. It's the first property we bought (2003), back when Eddie was still able to help with the renovations. We have a lot of tales to tell about that one. Remind us to tell you about replacing the brand new tile (only one tile, but replaced it twice) and the busted toilet story sometime. We had the same tenants living there (six years!) until August, when they moved to Houston.
It's a good thing I stayed home today. Eddie, always striving to stay independent, and excited about watching the OU game on TV, went to the sunroom (to watch the game), tried to open a window and fell. Early on with ALS he fell quite a bit, but doesn't much anymore...maybe once every other month. I think he moves more cautiously now. Fortunately he hasn't been hurt when he's fallen. He still uses his walker to get around, and only consents to the wheelchair when I'm available, and we're going out somewhere.
About the Hoyer lift. If you don't know what it is, check it out online sometime. It is awesome! The last few times he fell... BH (before Hoyer), I had a really difficult time getting him up again. Then in about March or April, he fell and I realized I couldn't do it anymore. I just couldn't get him up off the floor. It was the middle of the night, he and I were both exhausted after numerous attempts, and I decided to call the fire dept. A friend/co-worker of mine whose brother is a fireman recommended it first ... said folks call all the time for help like that and the firemen are very gracious. Another close friend of ours had told me I should call the FD for help, always..rather than risk hurting myself (or him), but I'd never done it before and Eddie and I both hate to ask for help if we can do it ourselves. That night I was going to call...he was very upset at the idea and asked me not to. I was insisting. We were both crying.... it was just an emotional, awful night. He finally came up with a crazy idea that worked, but I was completely worn out afterwards, and not a happy camper.
My, always resourceful, sweet, sister-in-law Rosie had told me months before to check into getting a Hoyer lift. When I asked the doctor, he told me that the lift wouldn't lower far enough to actually get Eddie up, so I dropped the subject. My advice now is...don't always believe the doctors!
A few weeks after that, Eddie's walker broke. One of the springs inside the walker that holds the adjustment "button" in place wouldn't spring back out. So when I walk into the kitchen, I see he has the walker, in pieces...he's going to fix it! He's always been good at repairing things...so good that I rarely bought new things over the years (32 yrs now) because he could fix the old stuff! Remind me to regale you with those stories sometime. (We might hold a record for the lifetime use of a clothes dryer.)
Well, it couldn't be fixed, the spring was broken. I found an old, loaner, walker to get him by and went the next day to replace his favorite model. The local store here is called Mobility Plus, and sells all kinds of things for the disabled. Viola! New walker, his favorite model, purchased in just minutes. While there, I asked to see a Hoyer Lift. And lo and behold, they have a new style lift with a curved support that will lower enough to lift a person (in the sling provided). It's the best assistive device for caregivers, ever! When he falls now, I roll the Hoyer to him, lay him flat enough to manuever the sling under him, loop six straps over six hooks and start cranking. Of course, I seem to get confused about which straps go on which hoops, or get the sling sideways... but he is not timid about correcting me, so it takes both of us to figure it out sometimes. He still has a lot of strength in his hands so can pull himself into position and saves my back a bit too. (I've bonked him on the head a time or two by lowering the brace too far, but didn't hurt him too much.) When the Hoyer comes out, the whole process can usually reduce us both to laughter...and that's a good thing! It's hydraulic, so takes very little effort to raise him gently, but quickly, until he's suspended in mid-air and I can push a chair beneath him, then release the tension. Then in a sitting positon it's easy for him to stand again. The entire process take about 15 minutes, start to finish. I can't tell you what a relief it is, for both of us, to stay independent and keep him at home. Hoyer Lifts are awesome! Thank you, Rosie!!
Funny thing is, I had just told him about the blog earlier today. It wasn't a secret really. I'd mentioned that I was going to try it out, but hadn't pointed out to him that I'd been posting for a while now. He's welcome to read it and input too, or dictate to me what he wants said. Seems Mr. email Snoop had already discovered it on his own....LOL. He'd intercepted an email from our niece commenting on the blog, and found the link. So after his fall today, I told him he'd be reading about that incident on the blog...for sure. He was laughing, and I thought ....hmmmmm, that's how I'm going to keep him in line in Germany. I'm threatening to tell everyone, via blog, if he doesn't behave himself while we're there!
Love to all!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
X-Cell experience, a must-read
If you haven't had time to see the other blog I suggested earlier, then you might find it interesting now.
msajourney.blogspot.com
This is the one Eddie found about a fellow from FL who is currently traveling to the X-Cell clinic. I believe he's at the Dusseldorf clinc, we will be at the Cologne clinic. He and his wife are there now, and he's completed both steps of his procedure and updated the blog with his observations. Though his ailment is not ALS, the stem cell procedure is the same. I read it with a great sigh of relief since he says it is not very painful, and afterwards (so far) he's not had great discomfort. Check it out.
msajourney.blogspot.com
This is the one Eddie found about a fellow from FL who is currently traveling to the X-Cell clinic. I believe he's at the Dusseldorf clinc, we will be at the Cologne clinic. He and his wife are there now, and he's completed both steps of his procedure and updated the blog with his observations. Though his ailment is not ALS, the stem cell procedure is the same. I read it with a great sigh of relief since he says it is not very painful, and afterwards (so far) he's not had great discomfort. Check it out.
Family reunion
We went to the family reunion a couple of weeks ago. Eddies' aunt has faithfully organized these over the years so the family can stay in touch, and so we can get to know all the extended (younger!) family members. One interesting thing at this one though, my niece's husband is a teacher at Broken Arrow schools, and one of the "extended" family members at the reunion, discovered that Michael (neice's husband) is his teacher this year. And family too! I don't know if that's good or bad for the child, being related to your math teacher! What a surprise.
It was so nice to see everyone and Eddie really enjoyed himself.
As you can tell, I've taught myself to upload pictures now. Too bad I talked too much (as usual) so forgot to take many photos.
Woo hoo! Passports have arrived!
We finally received the passports in the mail yesterday! We still had plenty of time before we travel to Cologne, but that's one less thing to stress about and keep track of. They are very attractive with all the fine detailed colored ink, and so official looking... except for the pictures. Eddie's picture isn't bad at all (except one can't smile for these pictures). I look like a felon in mine, but have never been particularly photogenic anyway. Holy Toledo... that makes me wonder .... maybe I really do look that bad to everyone else?! Oh well, I'll never ask that question, I have too many honest family and friends. I'll just keep thinking I'm much better (and younger!) looking than I really am.
Boss suggested that after the procedure is finished, and if Eddie is feeling well, we might arrange a train ride to Belguim or France (which are nearby, via train).... just to get those stamps on our passports. That would be a fun excursion. Eddie says we just might try it.
I have no intentions of ever traveling to Europe again. It was never a dream of mine, like it is for some people. There are so many parts of this country I'd love to see first (New Mexico, New England area)....before I get too old to travel. On the other hand, I have four handsome, healthy Grandboys (Thank you Lord) who, when they get older, might be willing to accompany an old lady for an excursion across the country. Especially if I'm paying, and can maintain my sense of humor! We love those boys and the Princess too. They are young, and curious of the physical changes Eddie has undergone over the past few years...but are very accepting (their parents raised them right).
When the the two older boys come to visit, they like to wheel around the house in Eddie's wheelchair. They even fight over whose turn it is to take a spin. So with that said, I'm going to make my first attempt to upload a picture, so I'll know how to do it when we get to Germany.
Boss suggested that after the procedure is finished, and if Eddie is feeling well, we might arrange a train ride to Belguim or France (which are nearby, via train).... just to get those stamps on our passports. That would be a fun excursion. Eddie says we just might try it.
I have no intentions of ever traveling to Europe again. It was never a dream of mine, like it is for some people. There are so many parts of this country I'd love to see first (New Mexico, New England area)....before I get too old to travel. On the other hand, I have four handsome, healthy Grandboys (Thank you Lord) who, when they get older, might be willing to accompany an old lady for an excursion across the country. Especially if I'm paying, and can maintain my sense of humor! We love those boys and the Princess too. They are young, and curious of the physical changes Eddie has undergone over the past few years...but are very accepting (their parents raised them right).
When the the two older boys come to visit, they like to wheel around the house in Eddie's wheelchair. They even fight over whose turn it is to take a spin. So with that said, I'm going to make my first attempt to upload a picture, so I'll know how to do it when we get to Germany.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Culture
There is so much to learn when traveling to a new area. There are many different cultures in this good ole U.S. of A. alone....ethnic, religious, geographic, without having to travel to a completely different continent. I'm naturally curious about people and respectful of different cultures. I try not to poke fun of ways that seem strange to me (unless it's just too ridicuous to ignore, and I can't keep a straight face).
I learned I'm not your average tourist when Eddie and I traveled to Cancun...and I asked lots of questions. Like, where does their sewage go? (looks like I'm the strange one, huh?) Cancun's just a little piece of lowland that sticks out into the ocean, with a lagoon on the backside, right? They certainly don't dump it in the ocean! It turns out they pump it back the other way, inland. Eddie said, who the hell asks questions like that when on vacation? Me!
He always has me "translate" for him .. funny given that I took Spanish in the 9th grade, and I really didn't care for teacher, Senorita Bell at the time. But a little bit of high school Spanish, some pantomine, and a big smile ( a few pesos?) goes a long way. I've heard that folks from other countries appreciate Americans trying to speak some of the native tongue. In Mexico I learned to say 'como se dice en Espanol _________', meaning 'how do you say, in Spanish ________ '. That way I picked up some new words... once they understood that I was asking for their help to learn the language. I also figured out that one needs to know and remember how to read a few signs.... like restroom, specifically Ladies restroom, or all the questions in the world won't help...and it could get pretty embarassing too!
So... I'm going to learn a few German phrases/questions (like... where's the restroom, does anyone speak english here, how much does that cost, and help!) , write them on notecards to carry with me, along with my phrase books.
Back to the culture part. I've been reading some interesting things about Germany, and asked my boss (who's traveled there a bit). Most he agreed with.
Did you know that in German cafes/pubs/restaurants (all but the upscale places) one is supposed to find their own seats/table, not wait to be seated? And you might have other people show up and sit at the table with you. They aren't being friendly, just practical. Like why stand around looking for a seat when there are only two people sitting at that big table. Most times they will just ignore you, and you them. That's like being in a crowded elevator here, and nobody speaks or makes eye contact.. you must admit, that's rather strange too.
Also, if they place a basket of rolls/bread on the table, it's not free. They count them and will charge you for each roll you take. Tap water is called "still" water, because they drink mostly mineral water, that's carbonated, or sparkly. They know you're a tourist if you order still water... because it's free. Apparently, they drink tap water at home, and want something with flavor when dining out.. like beer, wine, etc.
Germans don't use telephones for entertainment and chatting the way we do. Mainly because there is a charge for phone calls, even local ones. They answer the phone with their last name, then identify themselves. "Doe, Mr. Doe speaking". That way the person calling knows they have connected to the proper place, and they know who's speaking. So, if one were at Obama's house in Germany, they'd answer the phone "Obama, Mrs. Doe speaking" (in German, of course). Interesting!
The most unusual to me... they keep business and personal matters completely seperate. Now that's not so strange in itself. But, supposedly, you could work with someone in Germany every day for 15 years and not know if they have children, where they went to school, what part of town they live in, or anything personal. And they don't call each other by their first names at work. It's Mr. Brown, or just Brown. Very professional, but very different. Supposedly, Germans in the tourist industry will take your cue and call you by your first name... but that's just being considerate of our culture. As a rule, they are only on first-name basis with family members and close personal friends.
Enough of my rambiling for now.
I learned I'm not your average tourist when Eddie and I traveled to Cancun...and I asked lots of questions. Like, where does their sewage go? (looks like I'm the strange one, huh?) Cancun's just a little piece of lowland that sticks out into the ocean, with a lagoon on the backside, right? They certainly don't dump it in the ocean! It turns out they pump it back the other way, inland. Eddie said, who the hell asks questions like that when on vacation? Me!
He always has me "translate" for him .. funny given that I took Spanish in the 9th grade, and I really didn't care for teacher, Senorita Bell at the time. But a little bit of high school Spanish, some pantomine, and a big smile ( a few pesos?) goes a long way. I've heard that folks from other countries appreciate Americans trying to speak some of the native tongue. In Mexico I learned to say 'como se dice en Espanol _________', meaning 'how do you say, in Spanish ________ '. That way I picked up some new words... once they understood that I was asking for their help to learn the language. I also figured out that one needs to know and remember how to read a few signs.... like restroom, specifically Ladies restroom, or all the questions in the world won't help...and it could get pretty embarassing too!
So... I'm going to learn a few German phrases/questions (like... where's the restroom, does anyone speak english here, how much does that cost, and help!) , write them on notecards to carry with me, along with my phrase books.
Back to the culture part. I've been reading some interesting things about Germany, and asked my boss (who's traveled there a bit). Most he agreed with.
Did you know that in German cafes/pubs/restaurants (all but the upscale places) one is supposed to find their own seats/table, not wait to be seated? And you might have other people show up and sit at the table with you. They aren't being friendly, just practical. Like why stand around looking for a seat when there are only two people sitting at that big table. Most times they will just ignore you, and you them. That's like being in a crowded elevator here, and nobody speaks or makes eye contact.. you must admit, that's rather strange too.
Also, if they place a basket of rolls/bread on the table, it's not free. They count them and will charge you for each roll you take. Tap water is called "still" water, because they drink mostly mineral water, that's carbonated, or sparkly. They know you're a tourist if you order still water... because it's free. Apparently, they drink tap water at home, and want something with flavor when dining out.. like beer, wine, etc.
Germans don't use telephones for entertainment and chatting the way we do. Mainly because there is a charge for phone calls, even local ones. They answer the phone with their last name, then identify themselves. "Doe, Mr. Doe speaking". That way the person calling knows they have connected to the proper place, and they know who's speaking. So, if one were at Obama's house in Germany, they'd answer the phone "Obama, Mrs. Doe speaking" (in German, of course). Interesting!
The most unusual to me... they keep business and personal matters completely seperate. Now that's not so strange in itself. But, supposedly, you could work with someone in Germany every day for 15 years and not know if they have children, where they went to school, what part of town they live in, or anything personal. And they don't call each other by their first names at work. It's Mr. Brown, or just Brown. Very professional, but very different. Supposedly, Germans in the tourist industry will take your cue and call you by your first name... but that's just being considerate of our culture. As a rule, they are only on first-name basis with family members and close personal friends.
Enough of my rambiling for now.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Hotel
We've just finalized our hotel accomodations in Germany. We will be staying the Eruo Gardens Cologne City. Nadine, at Travelpoint (in Cologne), recommeded it after we told her our requirements. Mid-priced, free breakfast, coffee maker and hairdryer in room, close to the Cathedral area (for touristy things and shops, restaurants), and WiFi. Apparently the coffeemaker thing is not so common for Europeans...but important to us. The hotel also has a restaurant and pub in the lobby, so Eddie will get to try the local beer....and my boss tells me it's wonderful.
Over the past year, Eddie has taken to drinking Chai tea with rice milk each morning, so we'll be traveling with his supply of tea (not the milk, of course... he'll just have to deal with that), and I'll bring my own coffee (though they say online that there is a Starbucks in the nearby rail station!). The clinic offers transportation, but at appx $225 round-trip (about 10-15 mins each way) ...two trips at $450, Eddie said no way! I'll arrange for a taxi to the clinic... one big enough to store his wheelchair onboard. I figure to pay the driver extra since it takes so long to get him loaded up, so hopefully there won't be any grumbling. I understand the Germans to be quite straight forward, and not afraid to speak their minds... just factual, not meaning offense.
I've also learned that tipping is not requried in restaurants and such. Rounding up to the nearest Euro is acceptable, but not the 15-20% that is expected here. That is a good thing. I'm more than willing to pay for help with our bags and such. I'm pretty able-bodied, but not stupid. And I don't care to imitate Superwoman. So, I figure I'm physically in charge of the wheelchair, and someone else can do the packing of luggage.
And for all of you who witnessed me dumping him on his face at the restaurant a while back and are concerned .... I'm much better, and extremely cautious, at manuvering the wheelchair where those little pivoting wheels in the front won't get stuck again. That was one of the most upsetting and embarassing moments of my life. And it had to happen in a busy parking lot, in full view of family and the entire restaurant population!
Also, one of my co-workers suggested I carry a (locked) backpack rather than a purse or carry-on, so my hands are free to push the wheelchair. Great idea (Robin), and though I'm really not the backpack kind of gal, I considered it. My young cube-mate co-worker, told me I might loop each strap of the backpack over a wheelchair handle and save my back. Excellent idea, Ms. Steph! So, I bought a backpack this week. I think it will be excellent for all the things I need to carry with us.
I'm carrying our Rx drugs (in original labeled containers). Since the radio and TV offered may be in German only, I'm taking a small, battery operated CD player (with CDs), Eddie's personal DVD player (with DVDs), our camera, and playing cards, books, and such to keep us entertained. Ms. Steph and my boss also recommended sound-cancelling headsets for the plane trip. The airlines offers a lot of movie choices onboard, but they tell me the plane noise is so loud it's difficult to hear with regular headsets. So I'll be off to Radio Shack this week for headsets. I'm also going to carry a laptop, or netbook, since I'll spend some time online...though Eddie and I are at odds about getting a new one vs his (very) old, heavy laptop. Wish me luck on winning that one.
Love to all....
Over the past year, Eddie has taken to drinking Chai tea with rice milk each morning, so we'll be traveling with his supply of tea (not the milk, of course... he'll just have to deal with that), and I'll bring my own coffee (though they say online that there is a Starbucks in the nearby rail station!). The clinic offers transportation, but at appx $225 round-trip (about 10-15 mins each way) ...two trips at $450, Eddie said no way! I'll arrange for a taxi to the clinic... one big enough to store his wheelchair onboard. I figure to pay the driver extra since it takes so long to get him loaded up, so hopefully there won't be any grumbling. I understand the Germans to be quite straight forward, and not afraid to speak their minds... just factual, not meaning offense.
I've also learned that tipping is not requried in restaurants and such. Rounding up to the nearest Euro is acceptable, but not the 15-20% that is expected here. That is a good thing. I'm more than willing to pay for help with our bags and such. I'm pretty able-bodied, but not stupid. And I don't care to imitate Superwoman. So, I figure I'm physically in charge of the wheelchair, and someone else can do the packing of luggage.
And for all of you who witnessed me dumping him on his face at the restaurant a while back and are concerned .... I'm much better, and extremely cautious, at manuvering the wheelchair where those little pivoting wheels in the front won't get stuck again. That was one of the most upsetting and embarassing moments of my life. And it had to happen in a busy parking lot, in full view of family and the entire restaurant population!
Also, one of my co-workers suggested I carry a (locked) backpack rather than a purse or carry-on, so my hands are free to push the wheelchair. Great idea (Robin), and though I'm really not the backpack kind of gal, I considered it. My young cube-mate co-worker, told me I might loop each strap of the backpack over a wheelchair handle and save my back. Excellent idea, Ms. Steph! So, I bought a backpack this week. I think it will be excellent for all the things I need to carry with us.
I'm carrying our Rx drugs (in original labeled containers). Since the radio and TV offered may be in German only, I'm taking a small, battery operated CD player (with CDs), Eddie's personal DVD player (with DVDs), our camera, and playing cards, books, and such to keep us entertained. Ms. Steph and my boss also recommended sound-cancelling headsets for the plane trip. The airlines offers a lot of movie choices onboard, but they tell me the plane noise is so loud it's difficult to hear with regular headsets. So I'll be off to Radio Shack this week for headsets. I'm also going to carry a laptop, or netbook, since I'll spend some time online...though Eddie and I are at odds about getting a new one vs his (very) old, heavy laptop. Wish me luck on winning that one.
Love to all....
Family and Friends - a blessing.
I must admit that when Eddie was accepted to the German clinic, and this trip became a reality, I didn't handle it well... at all! I never dreamed he would be accepted for stem cell therapy, so it was quite a shock to me. He had almost a week to think about it before he told me (he waited until all the activities of our daughter's wedding were over). He is excited about going, and has not waivered in his decision (though I've given him numerous chances to change his mind). I fretted and cried and worried for days after getting the news. Really boo hooed and cried on my sweet sister-in-law's shoulder... wallowing in self pity, and uncertainty. Thank you, R.... for being so level headed, and calm for me! She suggested I take someone with us to help.... and we went through a list of people who might be able to do just that. I thought about it for two weeks before pulling myself together and decided that I can do this on my own. It's not much different than what I do now. And with carefully planning the travel arrangements, I think I can. I'm pretty certain of it now.
Recently, I received three offers from precious family members to go with us...and hints from others. What a wonderful network of family we are blessed with! Sweet daughter, who has the responsibility of a new marriage, and two, sometimes four kids, and a new home to care for.... in addition to full time student. Great son, who has a full time job and a family with three small children to care for, would be using up his vacation time for us. And Eddie's favorite uncle, too. We are so grateful for the offers. However, the way I've planned the trip is probably more drawn out than it needs be .... to allow for his comfort and rest, and any possible contingency. That much time away from home, with limited contact, would be a hardship for anyone ... and definitely not a vacation.
I realized that if I were asked to go, as caregiver for someone else, I would be up to the challenge. I just have to turn off the emotions, and concentrate on my duties...to get him there and back safely. I've been blessed with good health so far, and a stong back. The good Lord must have offered this challenge for a reason, so we'll just get it done.
Thanks to all you sweet people who offered. And after I have this behind me, I'll be experienced, so you can ask me to return the favor ... anytime!
Recently, I received three offers from precious family members to go with us...and hints from others. What a wonderful network of family we are blessed with! Sweet daughter, who has the responsibility of a new marriage, and two, sometimes four kids, and a new home to care for.... in addition to full time student. Great son, who has a full time job and a family with three small children to care for, would be using up his vacation time for us. And Eddie's favorite uncle, too. We are so grateful for the offers. However, the way I've planned the trip is probably more drawn out than it needs be .... to allow for his comfort and rest, and any possible contingency. That much time away from home, with limited contact, would be a hardship for anyone ... and definitely not a vacation.
I realized that if I were asked to go, as caregiver for someone else, I would be up to the challenge. I just have to turn off the emotions, and concentrate on my duties...to get him there and back safely. I've been blessed with good health so far, and a stong back. The good Lord must have offered this challenge for a reason, so we'll just get it done.
Thanks to all you sweet people who offered. And after I have this behind me, I'll be experienced, so you can ask me to return the favor ... anytime!
Making a list for travel
I'm a list maker, always have been ... and I've already begun to list all the things we need to take with us to Germany, and how to transport it. Eddie feels he must travel with everything (he's not a listmaker)... and usually surprises me at the last minute when the suitcase it already full! So our adventure usually begins before we leave the house to travel. To his credit, I used to do a lot of business travel, so I'm a bit more experienced. Eddie doesn't like to travel at all, so I think he may subconsiously sabotage himself when he does. If I haven't told you the story about his solo trip to Minnesota for a conference, remind me to tell you that one. I thought it was funny, though he didn't find it quite so humorous. Also, the story about our trip to Las Vegas once, when he spent most of the vacation finding and visiting a chiropractor, bless his heart. Of course, he says I tell everything I know. Probably true, but I have a outrageous sense of humor. I believe a sense of humor is underrated ... it's one of the awesome tools God has given us to help cope with life in general.
Where are the passports?
I keep watching the mail for our passports. We still have several weeks before traveling, so I'm not concerned...yet. I checked the State Dept website, and it indicates that our applications have been received and are being processed. It also states that the State Dept. goal is for them to be processed/received "door-to-door" within three weeks (if one has chosen to expedite them, which we did). The three weeks deadline came and went on Thursday. Just as a side note, I have two friends who recently applied for, and received their passports within two weeks.... without paying extra for expediting. However, they both (at different times) applied at their local courthouse, one in Tulsa, the other in our small hometown. We applied at the local post office. So, if you need to apply for your passport in the future, I would suggest going to your local courthouse to apply, and save the expediting fees...it would seem to be faster.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Info on the procedure
Hello again. I just wanted to share more information on the procedure itself. Rather than type a long, detailed description, I'll refer you instead to another blog that Eddie found online. This fellow is traveling to the same place we are, though a month earlier than us. They are going for the procedure this month. I'll be following his blog afterwards, myself. Check out:
msajourney.blogspot.com
This guy's situation, dates an all, are very similar to Eddie's, though he has a different condition, it is still neurological in nature, with no treatment or cure available ...just like Eddie. His procedure will be exactly the same. And they are dealing with the same travel issues and costs that we are, so I found the information useful, too.
I told some of you the wrong spelling on the Cologne clinic.
On Google, just type in, XCell-Center, and there's a lot of information there.
Also, if anyone wants to email us in Germany, I've set up a temporary email address that I'll be checking while there. okla_meemaw@yahoo.com
Love to all!
msajourney.blogspot.com
This guy's situation, dates an all, are very similar to Eddie's, though he has a different condition, it is still neurological in nature, with no treatment or cure available ...just like Eddie. His procedure will be exactly the same. And they are dealing with the same travel issues and costs that we are, so I found the information useful, too.
I told some of you the wrong spelling on the Cologne clinic.
On Google, just type in, XCell-Center, and there's a lot of information there.
Also, if anyone wants to email us in Germany, I've set up a temporary email address that I'll be checking while there. okla_meemaw@yahoo.com
Love to all!
Itinerary
For those of you who are interested in our timeline for the trip to Germany, I'm including our travel itinery. I may have extended the trip longer than necessary, but I wanted to allow plenty of time for Eddie to recover before flying home. I can't afford for him to be any more uncomfortable than normal and make the long journey home. Eddie's treatments are scheduled for Oct 19th, to extract bone marrow (and stem cells) from his hip. Then October 21st to do the lumbar injection of the harvested stem cells. After the injection, the clinic recommends resting for 48 hrs before traveling home. That would make the earliest travel date on the 23rd-24th. We are staying on until midday of the 26th. If he feels fine (and he's already certain that he will...hmmm) we could do some sightseeing on the last day or two. Nine days in Germany is going to make for a very long stay, but the airfare is the most expensive part of the trip... not counting the treatment itself (about 7,500 Euros...cash requried) so if we get to enjoy the area for a couple of days that will be a bonus, right?
Travel Itinery:
Tulsa to O'Hare
Oct 16th 11:35 - 1:20pm
AA flight 366
Staying overnight at Sheraton Gateway Suites Hotel (near the airport). They have a wheelchair accessible shuttle to pick us up at the airport, and return us the next day.
O'Hare to Frankfurt
Oct 16th 10pm, arriving 1:30pm on Oct17th because of the time difference.
Lufthansa flight LH433
Jetlag here we come!!
Frankfurt to Cologne, via rail
Oct 17th 4:09pm - 5:05pm
Rail LH6820
That's 12 hrs 5min according to the airlines... I didn't calculate it myself. It doesn't, of course, include arriving early, check-in, customs, etc.
Returning:
Cologne to Munich
Oct 26th 1:05pm - 2:10pm
Lufthansa flight LH1271
Munich to O'Hare
Oct 26th 4:25pm - 7:25pm
We will stay overnight again in Chicago, though I haven't booked a room yet for our return to the States. The Sheraton is pretty pricey, so we'll decide, after our initial stay at the Sheraton, before we leave Chi, where to stay when returning.
O'Hare to Tulsa
Oct 27th arriving at 10:50am
AA Flight 583
That's 12hrs, 20 mins according to the airlines.
I've checked into travel insurance (through AAA Access) that will cover missed connections, etc. and also medical care if either of us gets sick or injured... since most medical insurance plans in the states are not applicable in foreign countries. The coverage, of course, does not include pre-existing conditions (his). I was more concerned about myself getting ill/injured and not being able to get him back home. So this coverage (at $565) we think is well worth the peace of mind it offers.
Travel Itinery:
Tulsa to O'Hare
Oct 16th 11:35 - 1:20pm
AA flight 366
Staying overnight at Sheraton Gateway Suites Hotel (near the airport). They have a wheelchair accessible shuttle to pick us up at the airport, and return us the next day.
O'Hare to Frankfurt
Oct 16th 10pm, arriving 1:30pm on Oct17th because of the time difference.
Lufthansa flight LH433
Jetlag here we come!!
Frankfurt to Cologne, via rail
Oct 17th 4:09pm - 5:05pm
Rail LH6820
That's 12 hrs 5min according to the airlines... I didn't calculate it myself. It doesn't, of course, include arriving early, check-in, customs, etc.
Returning:
Cologne to Munich
Oct 26th 1:05pm - 2:10pm
Lufthansa flight LH1271
Munich to O'Hare
Oct 26th 4:25pm - 7:25pm
We will stay overnight again in Chicago, though I haven't booked a room yet for our return to the States. The Sheraton is pretty pricey, so we'll decide, after our initial stay at the Sheraton, before we leave Chi, where to stay when returning.
O'Hare to Tulsa
Oct 27th arriving at 10:50am
AA Flight 583
That's 12hrs, 20 mins according to the airlines.
I've checked into travel insurance (through AAA Access) that will cover missed connections, etc. and also medical care if either of us gets sick or injured... since most medical insurance plans in the states are not applicable in foreign countries. The coverage, of course, does not include pre-existing conditions (his). I was more concerned about myself getting ill/injured and not being able to get him back home. So this coverage (at $565) we think is well worth the peace of mind it offers.
Travel considerations
We have not received our passports yet, but it's only been two weeks. We paid every expediting fee offered to get them back lickety split, just to be certain there were no issues...and to take a bit of stress off when that piece is in place for our trip.
I have finalized our travel arrangements. On the advise of several co-workers and friends who have traveled to Europe before, I booked air travel with Lufthansa. They say LF is far and above the domestic airlines when traveling overseas, for service and accomodations. Business class costs about 4x coach, and is pretty high brow for a couple of middle class Okies, but with such a long flight, I had to think first of Eddie's comfort, and ability to get to the restroom... so we are going (further) into debt for Business Class ... and will figure all that out later.
We are traveling on a Airbus 330 plane, that has much wider aisles, and seats that tilt (not quite flat) for sleeping. I think it will be very close to the position he sleeps in now (in the recliner). I have arranged (if they airlines don't make me change plans) to take his custom wheelchair all the way to the gate and onto the plane. (He uses the walker mostly at home, but is very slow and laborious, and fatiguing to him. So he will do most of his traveling in the wheelchair.) During my research, I found that a collapsible wheelchair can be checked at the gate, and stored in a wheelchair "closet" on board the plane. With the wider aisles he should be able to use it on board to get to the restroom. Now what do I do with the walker? Check it as luggage, I suppose. He will use the walker to get around in the hotel room. He loves the tray on his walker, can't seem to do without it, and I'm afraid it will be damaged in the luggage cargo hold. If so, if the tray is damaged, he'll just have to do without it until we get a new one, back home.
Lufthana also arranges their arrival/departure gates close together, so there is no problem with connections. When traveling in the past (domestically) we have had to go to different terminals for connecting flights! What a pain that would be on this trip! I think we are really going to like the German airlines.
I didn't notice, initially, that the final leg of our trip to Cologne was via rail. I chose the shortest trip, with later check in times, fewer connections, and so forth, to best accomodate travel with as little stress as possible. So, before booking, I did a lot of research on German rail service (which I knew to be excellent for able bodied travelers) and apparently they are quite accomodating to disabled passengers as well. They have a special check in area at the rail station, and will have someone place a ramp between the platform and the rail car door opening so you can roll the wheelchair onboard. Included in the rail portion of "airfare", the rail travel is "first class" car. Eddie can ride in his wheelchair on the train, or tranfer to a seat if he wished. And eat at his seat, rather than move to the dining car.
I just found out that the (recommended) best travel to Germany would be to fly out of Atlanta. I didn't know that when I was arranging our itinerary (I'm learning as I go it seems). It seemed many flights left from Chicago O'Hare ... huge airport, kinda scary, I thought... but what the hell, we've gotta go soooo.... I booked our Intl portion of the trip out of Chicago. My thinking (if you disagree, don't tell me now, please!) was that there is that we must arrive at Tulsa Intl two hrs early, then fly to Chi, then arrive two hrs ahead for the flight to Germany, etc. .... way too much for Eddie in one day. So, I used my credit card miles (accumulating for 5yrs now) to fly us first class to Chicago (that only cost me $50 !). We will spend the night there, so he can rest, and leave for Germany at 10 pm the following day. That way it's mostly sleeping on the long leg of the flight, and hopefully, arrive somewhat refreshed. I've spent hours and hours online trying to figure out the most suitable accomodations while in Cologne, and tranportation to/from train station, airport, and two trips to the X-Cell clinic at Eduardus Hospital. I'm trying to look at every aspect since we will be 9 days in Cologne. If a pick a hotel, and it sucks, we'll be stuck with my choice.
I have finalized our travel arrangements. On the advise of several co-workers and friends who have traveled to Europe before, I booked air travel with Lufthansa. They say LF is far and above the domestic airlines when traveling overseas, for service and accomodations. Business class costs about 4x coach, and is pretty high brow for a couple of middle class Okies, but with such a long flight, I had to think first of Eddie's comfort, and ability to get to the restroom... so we are going (further) into debt for Business Class ... and will figure all that out later.
We are traveling on a Airbus 330 plane, that has much wider aisles, and seats that tilt (not quite flat) for sleeping. I think it will be very close to the position he sleeps in now (in the recliner). I have arranged (if they airlines don't make me change plans) to take his custom wheelchair all the way to the gate and onto the plane. (He uses the walker mostly at home, but is very slow and laborious, and fatiguing to him. So he will do most of his traveling in the wheelchair.) During my research, I found that a collapsible wheelchair can be checked at the gate, and stored in a wheelchair "closet" on board the plane. With the wider aisles he should be able to use it on board to get to the restroom. Now what do I do with the walker? Check it as luggage, I suppose. He will use the walker to get around in the hotel room. He loves the tray on his walker, can't seem to do without it, and I'm afraid it will be damaged in the luggage cargo hold. If so, if the tray is damaged, he'll just have to do without it until we get a new one, back home.
Lufthana also arranges their arrival/departure gates close together, so there is no problem with connections. When traveling in the past (domestically) we have had to go to different terminals for connecting flights! What a pain that would be on this trip! I think we are really going to like the German airlines.
I didn't notice, initially, that the final leg of our trip to Cologne was via rail. I chose the shortest trip, with later check in times, fewer connections, and so forth, to best accomodate travel with as little stress as possible. So, before booking, I did a lot of research on German rail service (which I knew to be excellent for able bodied travelers) and apparently they are quite accomodating to disabled passengers as well. They have a special check in area at the rail station, and will have someone place a ramp between the platform and the rail car door opening so you can roll the wheelchair onboard. Included in the rail portion of "airfare", the rail travel is "first class" car. Eddie can ride in his wheelchair on the train, or tranfer to a seat if he wished. And eat at his seat, rather than move to the dining car.
I just found out that the (recommended) best travel to Germany would be to fly out of Atlanta. I didn't know that when I was arranging our itinerary (I'm learning as I go it seems). It seemed many flights left from Chicago O'Hare ... huge airport, kinda scary, I thought... but what the hell, we've gotta go soooo.... I booked our Intl portion of the trip out of Chicago. My thinking (if you disagree, don't tell me now, please!) was that there is that we must arrive at Tulsa Intl two hrs early, then fly to Chi, then arrive two hrs ahead for the flight to Germany, etc. .... way too much for Eddie in one day. So, I used my credit card miles (accumulating for 5yrs now) to fly us first class to Chicago (that only cost me $50 !). We will spend the night there, so he can rest, and leave for Germany at 10 pm the following day. That way it's mostly sleeping on the long leg of the flight, and hopefully, arrive somewhat refreshed. I've spent hours and hours online trying to figure out the most suitable accomodations while in Cologne, and tranportation to/from train station, airport, and two trips to the X-Cell clinic at Eduardus Hospital. I'm trying to look at every aspect since we will be 9 days in Cologne. If a pick a hotel, and it sucks, we'll be stuck with my choice.
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