8 replies to this topic

[rmorgan]

So, two of our friends have been suggesting a trip to the Bahamas. They've gone several times and are trying to organize a trip for about 8 of our close friends. They've decided to do it right after Christmas, during New Years, seeing how it's warm there year round.

They say it wont be the same without Brad and myself. I REALLLY, I mean REALLLLLY want to go, but I'm leaving it up to him, seeing how he doesn't really dig the beach scene. But they did find an accessible house, all one story, accessible bathrooms, etc etc. With a covered deck that leads right into the ocean. I mean it's like 10 ft. from the house (the ocean I mean). But he's still hesitant.

I heard Motor talking about a "beach" or "water" wheelchair that was provided by his cruise company. Is there a way to find one, and bring it with us?? I want him to enjoy being there, and not be miserable.

And secondly...We've never really discussed an "over heating" problem with him. I know that he gets really hot quickly, but usually that's when we're out on the boat, and then he just jumps in the water, no problem. Would this be a problem if he decides he doesn't want to be involved with trying to get into the ocean with us? I've seen in several posts about this, getting too hot I mean. What's the best way to go about this. I wanna be able to talk about ALL of our options, so I can convince him we wont have a problem.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for us, I want him to be a part of it. But I don't want to let him be aware of how upset I would be if he decided against it. I'm leaving the decision to go up to him, and tying not to clue him in on the upset part, because I know it would upset him if he knew and decided he didn't want to go.

HELP! I'm in need of serious advise or suggestions!!

[qbounce]

Hi rmoran,
What're you holding back for?? Just tell your man you NEED to get out, already. Nothing wrong with honesty.

It sounds like your friends did their homework finding an accessible place and everything. So, what's the absolute worst thing that could happen? You and Brad might possibly have lots of fun, fond memories to look back on, and even a few sarongs, little umbrellas, and some home made rum to bring home so you can reminisce about the beautiful amber Bahaman sunsets back in Gorgia.

By the way, doesn't it get hot where YOU are? I mean really, REALLY HOT?? I'm pretty sure the heat in the Bahamas heats up too. But at a more level 80's-ish degrees. Hell, he can watch you from the balcony under the shade while you guys tan in the sun. Or maybe you can all do some snorkeling off the coast!

Ok, forget Brad!! Sign me up!!!

[wheeliebear75]

Well if you've got a couple of guys who are able to carry him, the current and waves aren't too strong, and you keep in mind that we get cold quicker as well as hot quicker......so what may feel "cool & nice" to AB bodies could start some muscle cramping\seizing (just keep it in mind). Have spray bottles so you can douse him down......and stay in larger groups and more public areas (sometimes pick pockets and other unsavory types see us as "easy pickings" so again keep that in mind (it's like that visiting Tijuana Mexico). Make sure you've got documents showing his need for any meds or things like the caths. Good luck but it does need to be AOK with him like you said.

[rmorgan]

Hell, come with us!

I know...it's gets REALLY hot where we are. I'm not thinking the heat will be a total problem, just as long as he's not sitting there getting baked (by the sun I mean, hehe)

I think he'll come around...or else I'll make him! Just need some encouragement to get him to go...we do loads of traveling, and outdoor stuff. Just not the beach yet...we'll see. I'm keeping my fingers crossed...

AND DAMNIT...IT'S THE F-IN BAHAMAS!!!

[Ches]

Robyn don't forget about yourself and the things you want to do before your days are gone. Brad cant expect you to never wanna go to the beach as a couple. Just not realistic.

There's plenty of ways to get around the issues. Its up to Brads attitude about the whole matter.

I recommend getting him drunk the first night there, and convincing him the huge inflatable raft is indeed the bed. Wake up before him n just drag him and the "bed" out to the beach.. What could he really say at that point?

[Apparelyzed]

Hi,

I'm a C5/6 Quad, and the overheating problem can be managed:

If you're sitting by the pool, just get a table with a parasol!

Wear a hat.

Drink plenty of iced cold drinks.

Take a water spray.

Eat at regular intervals to keep your energy up.

If you get too hot, go to the bar, get them to put ice into a rolled up towel, and hang it over the back of your neck.

Don't worry, there will be a few hiccups, there are bound to be, but look at the bigger picture, and you'll have a great time.

If you don't go, you'll never know!

Regards

Simon

[Kevin]

Just a thought, but maybe it's not the house, friends, or the Bahamas he's concerned about. Maybe it's the trip over there. Some people just don't travel well.

[rmorgan]

No...he travels fine. As long as the flight isn't over 6hrs. We do a lot of flying...so it's no problem.

[gsp23]

With regards to a beach chair. Well there are specialized ones you can get and some of the accessible beaches have them available so you might want to call the place you are renting from. That being said, for those of us who arent going to purchase a specialized chair for every aspect in life, you might want to consider comming up with an "alternate" setup for such occasions. Let me explain...

I have 2 chairs currently, my day chair and my hunting chair. My hunting chair has been setup so that it runs as well as many of the specialized offroad chairs do because I made some modifications to larger wheels and tires. The key to sand is to have wide tires. Even the Colors Tremor (specialized beach chair) only has 8x2 castors. I have a beach setup for my chair because we were talking going to Mexico under similar circumstances and I wanted to be able to move myself around even though others were willing to help. 8x2 castors are no problem finding but the castor forks were the challenge (which I have). Search eBay and look for used electric chair parts. The ones I got even screw right into the same place as my existing castors. I have a knobby tire I use for hunting with those castors and then I switch to a standard smoother design when I go to the beach as you dont want your castors to dig in. I bought some wide tires that I dont normally use unless I go to a place such as the beach, which I had to order from UK but there are similiar ones that can be bought in the US as well. When I go to beach like surroundings I get those wide tires (careful of not too much tread cause they will just dig in) and have them mounted and change out to my 8x2 casters and I am able to move in the sand. Yes it is some work but it is possible and it is MUCH easier than trying to do it in a standard setup.