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16
At a meeting with the D&G Health Board I was
shown a copy of a guide that they give to disabled
and ill people to help them in some aspects of
their life. It was suggested that it may be of some use to us fatigue illness
sufferers. The sample I saw dealt with travel. Quite frankly if my doctor had
handed it to me I’d have been insulted. We may be ill, have short term memory
difficulties and concentration problems, but we aren’t stupid! The guide, over about
20 pages, said things along the lines of: if you are too tired to drive then take the
train; if the train is too expensive, take the bus. It really was that basic and worse
still it failed on most counts to deal with our problems and the unique challenges of
our region.
Making a journey will always be tiring but there are some things you can do to help
yourself as much as possible. These are a few of the things I find helpful:
If driving yourself make plenty of stops. Even a few minutes rest can help to clear
the head.
If you haven’t already, get yourself a disabled parking badge (easier said than done if
you don’t receive DLA), even if you don’t drive. It can make the difference between
being exhausted and shattered.
If travelling by train or plane call your operator and ask for assistance and advice.
It may be embarrassing, especially if you look reasonably healthy and walk in unaided
but most people can comprehend that walking a few steps and walking the length of a
train terminal or airport is completely different. Showing your disabled parking
badge or some proof of your illness, such as a bagful of pills, soon dispels anyone’s
doubts about your need, and they are only too happy to help.
If you will be sitting for a long period of time take a small pillow or one of those
inflatable travel neck pillows. It supports the head and saves the neck and back
being quite so tired.
Earplugs help to reduce background noise which may help stop such a bad headache
from developing.
Our temperatures fluctuate hugely at the best of time, but with exhaustion they do
so all the more. Try to wear layers and tops which can easily be removed or zipped
up and down to try to regulate the temperature a little more.
Take snacks and a flask to help control blood sugar levels and give a boost of energy
when required.
Travelling with ME
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