the tale of the invisible crutches

 Well it's getting on for 8 weeks now since I confirmed something I already suspected.

And I still find it shocking.

It's an everyday occurrence for a lot of people.

Let me explain.

I had a knee replacement a few weeks ago, so of course I am using crutches—of which more later.

Several years ago I spent a fair bit of time with someone I then knew, who was in a wheel chair. I was surprised and horrified by the number of people who seemed oblivious to the chair and almost ploughed into it. Expecting the user to see them and move out of the way. Something that was not always easy. Especially when the other person could sidestep with ease.

The number of tuts and dirty looks was frankly astounding. 

Did those people think the wheelchair user was in it for fun? That they shouldn't be on the pavement or seaside promenade? I wish I'd dared to ask.

Is it the same with pushchairs? Weirdly when I pushed my children I didn't find that. Were people more aware in those days or was I less aware? I'm not sure.

But it meant that when I felt stable and able enough to head out on my two crutches I had no idea what might await. (Happily I'm down to one now)

(It was ah, shall we say, a bit bracing!)

BEWARE

(sad rant alert)

I didn't realise how invisible crutches were. How people don't see them, or think they must be a figment of their imagination.

And as they aren't there, why should anyone need to give way to you? Give you room to manoeuvre, or even shock horror time to more to one side so they can walk on regardless.

Or scoot or cycle past you so close, so if you wobbled you'd be under their wheels. And apparently neither notice or care.

No need to make sure their dog doesn't trip you up, or get its lead tangled around you legs or crutch, their child doesn't bang into you or they ignore you and growl if you don't move fast enough out of their way.

Invisible.

Now, not everyone is like that,

The majority aren't. They are kind, courteous and aware. Smile and move or stop out of your way. Say hello and nice day or whatever. Nod when you give them your heartfelt thanks.

It's really opened my eyes.

Now I'm lucky. I'm now down to one stick outside and none indoors. Taking painkillers when needed, and doing my exercises. Another month or so I should be able to walk without a stick outside.

And I'll darned well make sure I'm in the kind, courteous and move aside brigade.

That's it today. I feel better getting it off my chest so to speak.

onwards and upwards.

Have a great week everyone,

Love Raven xxx

*** Book of my week***

Jack Cartwright

No More Blood