I Can Fly

I went on a long plane ride for the first time since being hit with fibromyalgia. I had no idea how well I would tolerate it. What would changes in altitude do? How would I handle the cramped space?

Flying is difficult under the best of circumstances, and I found it a bit more difficult than I thought it would be. Sitting for long periods of time on a cramped plane is uncomfortable, but unless you are on an aisle seat, getting up to stretch every so often can be difficult. I would have preferred a window seat, since it gives me something to lean against, allowing me to change position every so often. I was in the aisle, so I was stuck in the same position the whole time. I did get up every so often just to stretch a little, but the problem was I was hurting, so getting up was painful and slow. I also had to get up several times to let the other two people out, something I found painful. Overall, I still think I would rather have a window seat, but I have not actually tired that yet. I may be wrong.

Another suggestion I saw was to check as much as possible. Considering how much they charge per bag, that is fine, along with the suggestion that flying first class would also be more comfortable. Many of us with fibro have a more limited budget, though. There is a much better solution.

After flying for six hours, I did not even know if I would be able to walk. What would I do then? My wife chose the best answer. She dropped me off with the skycap. As per prior arrangements that my wife made, the skycap called for a wheelchair, and I was wheeled to the front of the long security line. Standing is uncomfortable for me, and that long line with all my luggage would have put me in a world of hurt. We breezed through, and I was dropped off at the gate.

Not only did this help reduce pain, but lots of noise and busy environments can make me confused. With this, I did not have to worry about figuring out how to get to my destination. Yes, it was strange being wheeled about. Absolutely I would have preferred to go on my own two feet. Was it the smarter course of action? Yes. I avoided a whole host of potential problems. I was moving pretty slow, and being pre-boarded avoided my having to slow down other passengers behind me. It might seem a little selfish to have all this done for you, but it actually makes it easier for everyone in the long run. The horror stories of severe pain and missed flights I read about online came from people who tired to do it themselves. You have to ask for help.

When my wife called about the wheelchair, the person she spoke with had a relative with fibromyalgia so she understood the situation. They took good care of me. The truth is, while I do not want a handicapped placard for the car since I do not drive when I am in that rough shape, there are times when I am handicapped. Denial is not an answer. Admitting that I have limitations was the smart thing to do.

For luggage, I had a bag with wheels and an expanding handle. That was great, as I could put my computer bag on top and wheel it easily about. It all fit easily on the plane.

I did not seem to have any problems with the changes in pressure, nor did I find many others online complaining about problems with that. I was flying from one side of the country to the other, so there was a three hour time difference. I had no problem with this, but I never have had either. Just as before, I always synched up almost automatically to the time zone I was in. Those who have been bothered by Jet Lag in the past should follow the usual recommendation for dealing with it, as it could be worse with fibro.

Overall, while I was dreading it ahead of time, I am glad that I made the trip. It was more difficult than in the past, but not so much so that there is any real excuse not to fly and deny myself the new experiences and adventures that come with travel.