Last Sunday I stepped out of my comfort zone and joined a few neighbors in a picnic at a local park, and though I was apprehensive at first, it ended being a wonderful event.

he plan was to meet at the park at 3 pm for lunch and playtime for the kids. The morning of the event I checked the weather, and it showed it was going to rain. I decided to text the group and let them know the weather forecast to see if they wanted to reschedule.  The group coordinator replied  and said not worry, that a little rain wouldn’t hurt. However, as a power wheelchair user, a little rain can be a big deal. I would have to explain that my power controls could malfunction if they get wet, and that my battery can’t get wet either.  Truthfully, some days I feel like it's just easier to avoid activities rather than explain, but my son was so excited about this event. I didn't want to let him down by not going, but if my chair stalled or got damaged I would suffer. In the end I decided to risk it and go.

On the ride there the rain began and didn’t let up. But when we arrived the picnic organizer pulled out a gigantic umbrella and held it over my wheelchair with no questions asked! Finally the rain stopped, and I ended up having a wonderful time talking and bonding with my neighbors.