We have!

I love that summer is filled with vibrant outdoor activities and events. As an amputee, participating in these activities can be both exciting and a bit challenging. I recently attended an awesome pride parade in BEAUTIFUL San Diego and learned some valuable lessons about making the most of outdoor events while being a BKA amputee. Here’s a highlight of my experiences along with some essential reminders for a comfortable and enjoyable time at events like this:

Plan for Comfort: Portable Seating is a MUST

The day started with excitement and anticipation, but we soon encountered a looooooooooooooooong line for the shuttle. The scorching sun and zero seating options left my residual limb feeling hot and super sweaty. I realized then what little effort I’d put into planning ahead.

So, for you (and for future me): when spending an entire day outside, always bring portable seating options like a beach chair, a cane with a seat, or a wheelchair. Having a place to rest not only helps manage physical discomfort but also helps helps you fully enjoy the festivities without feeling drained by the heat (and sweat).

Be Prepared for Limb Size Changes: Pack Amputee Socks

As we quickly walked past some of the parade floats (and attempted to catch up to a float or two we’d missed waiting on the shuttle), I noticed my residual limb seemed to no longer fit and was moving around in my prosthesis. This phenomenon of volume fluctuation is common for amputees, especially in warmer weather and with increased activity levels. But this time, unlike the above no-seat incident, I was ready.

I remembered to bring my amputee socks! These socks are crucial to helping make (or keep) a comfortable fit and prevent discomfort. Having them on hand allows you to adjust your prosthesis as needed throughout the day – and then you can focus on enjoying the event rather than worrying about any (well, most) potential discomfort.

Stay Adaptive: Prepare for Accessibility Challenges

After an enjoyable time at the parade, we decided to head to a nearby restaurant for a meal. Because of the parade, most of the restaurants were packed, and when we did find one with open tables, the open tables were on the second floor (which wasn’t surprising since there were actually about six stairs from the street to the first-floor entrance). Fortunately, I could make it up (all) the stairs.

Unfortunately, anyone with any kind of disability should be prepared for potential accessibility challenges when out and about. In order to draw attention to the need for accessibility improvements (and because I was tired), I made fairly loud grunting noises while slowly climbing the stairs to that second floor. Not glamorous, I know, but it was my chance to make a point…to whoever was listening. If you’re not into grunting, consider calling ahead to a restaurant to see what kind of accessibility they do (or don’t) offer.

Embrace the High Points: Encounter Kindness and Support

Amidst the challenges, there were high points that brightened my day. I noticed that people around me were kind, understanding, and considerate of my needs. Whether it was making way for my mobility or offering assistance, the genuine warmth and support from strangers were heartwarming. This experience served as a beautiful reminder that there are kind and helpful individuals everywhere who won’t hesitate to help (sweaty) people in need.

Looking forward: More Summer Fun

Are you ready for some unforgettable outdoor end-of-summer adventures as an amputee? Try to remember these lessons (learned from my poor planning): Make sure to bring your portable seating so you can sit (and be less sweaty). Don’t forget the amputee socks to tame your shape-shifting residual limb during those scorching summer days. And when unexpected restaurant stairs appear, make sure to share some well-placed groans and grunts (and maybe even tears, depending on stair length). Bonus: embrace the high points – people might actually be helpful and kind!

So, plan ahead, adapt, and enjoy those summer festivities with a generous sprinkle of patience…and a tiny bit of sarcasm. You got this!