StrokeSurvivorBlog

Planning a vacation and traveling with a stroke survivor requires a lot of preparation. Being this was our first time flying since 9-11, I needed to be informed of all the new changes in security. So I went to the Transportation Security Administration website – TSA. They had great tips for passengers with disabilities and this really helped me in packing and knowing how to dress; and what to bring in a carry-on bag…like all your medications. It also informed me of the services provided to disabled passengers and what to expect at the security check.

I contacted the airline several times to inform them of our needs and to ask questions. This helped them to be ready for us. I planned on bringing Steve’s power wheelchair and I informed the airline of this. They needed at least a 24-hour notice. Wheelchairs, canes, and any other assistive devices take priority over anyone else’s luggage. If the plane is large enough, a foldable wheelchair may be stowed on board. However, if there are others with wheelchairs, there won’t be enough room and they must be checked into the cargo area. Make sure all removable parts are labeled with your name, and put them into a carry-on bag. It’s too easy to lose a wheelchair brake handle or leg rest in the cargo area. The airlines cannot charge a passenger extra for bringing along assistive devices even if they are in addition to the maximum baggage allowed, carry-on or otherwise.

At the last minute we decided to rent a power wheelchair at our destination instead of bringing Steve’s. He used an airport wheelchair and at the security check he was patted down, but I got through the screening process okay the first time. It really paid to pack and dress according to the TSA guidelines. We allowed plenty of time for all of this so we weren’t rushed. Stroke survivors get easily stressed and frustrated when rushed.

We were boarded first so Steve could take his time being seated. The flight attendant even put our carry-on bags and Steve’s cane in the overhead bin for us. I requested and got bulkhead seating (front row) so he could extend his leg which is hard to keep bent with his AFO brace. Again, I must stress how important it is to let the airline know what you need ahead of time. They are very attentive to the needs of their disabled passengers and will do everything they can to meet those needs if they know what they are in advance. A side benefit of being boarded first is that we didn’t have to pay extra for priority seating or boarding privileges. Allegiant Air really treated us like royalty.