My road came to an unexpected halt on November 9, 2010.

On that day, I was bicycling to work when a garbage truck drove into a Philadelphia bike lane. I was in that bike lane.

A team of trauma surgeons saved my life, but they had to amputate my left leg above the knee. The accident changed my body and health forever.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.

These words started me on my journey to walk again. Over time, they became a way of life.

I am a person with ability and disability. I travel in the space between. These are my postcards.

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Adaptive Travel Tip: It's OK to overpack!

"Wait, what?"

I know.  I know.  Most travel gurus advise traving light.  

After all, everyday essentials are available almost anywhere in the world. 

When I hear them say this, I cringe a bit.  I'm not an expert, but I believe there's a caveat for amputees and others who travel with disability...



Me and my brother, Mark, standing on a city sidewalk with a pile of suitcases.  I'm wearing my prosthesis and in my hand are a set of crutches in a black mesh bag.

Overpacking is OK.  Here's why:

First, everyday life with amputation requires specialized equipment that isn't readily available away from home (think silicone liners, socket valves, prescription skin creams, etc).

Second, if we run out of something, the stakes are high.  We could develop a skin tear or be unable to wear our prosthetic at all -- seriously limiting our mobility.  (And if that happens, we can't even go out to get what we need!)

Third, bringing extra stuff along -- while challenging to pack and lug -- can reduce anxiety and worry. 

Travel ALWAYS pushes me out of my comfort zone, and knowing I've packed "everything" makes it easier to take that leap!

Walk on,
Rebecca

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