Yesterday was an exciting day for me as my new-to-me tilt in space wheelchair was collected. It is wider than my previous self propelling wheelchair but has so many useful and helpful features. The side arm rests are height adjustable, the sides unlock and rise up vertically to allow horizontal transfers, the self propel wheels are quick release for transport or storage, there are two styles of headrest with it, a lumbar support cushion pad, leg rests with large foot supports, leg rests for raising your legs our horizontally, easy to use brakes, two ways for the carer to push the chair and easy tilting mechanism with hand brake for the carer to hold. I have been out in it today for the first time (going into the garden yesterday doesn't really count) and it has meant I could stay out all day with my family. I am totally exhausted and nearly fell getting into the car at the end of the show, but was able to lie back as I felt tired and relax my head, neck and back. My little dog perched on my lap all day distracted people from my legs and arm tremoring and those who didn't notice the dog didn't notice me either..... The invisibility effect of a wheelchair! I was worried about the chair tipping over backwards, sending my head first onto the concrete, so my husband stood on the back of the chair to prove that it wouldn't go anywhere.... Welcome demonstration although terrifying without notice lol. An unexpected bonus of the wheelchair today was as a hiding place for our 7 month puppy who was slightly uncomfortable with the show bless her. We have been to the shire horse show for the last three years, stayed all day every time and the children have thoroughly enjoyed themselves every year. This year they had more independence than ever before, having their phones with them so we could get in touch as needed. They were able to go to the stables area, chat to the grooms, meet the horses, take photographs for me, chat with people showing horses and wander around the stalls in the arena. One gentleman in particular was kind to them and brought a step out for them to be able to reach his horse, Poppy. They returned to see Poppy several times during the day, ending with them getting a wave in the grand parade which made their day. I don't know who the man is or which stables he is from but he really made a positive impression on them all and to wave to them in the parade was a lovely heartwarming touch. The showground where the show is held is wheelchair accessible with a lift to the upper floor that surrounds the show arena. Downstairs the arena is sectioned off with metal fencing which is too high to see over from a wheelchair, but the view from upstairs is much better if you can get the angle right to not be blinded by the lights. That took some practice but was well worth it. Despite how tired I feel now and how much pain I have in my body, I am glad we went and had a family day out, thankful for my new wheelchair and relieved to be home again without falling. This gorgeous horse stood out from the crowd in its class lineup and I instantly backed it for a win. I was delighted when they won their class and also qualified for horse of the year.
This was my view on the ground floor. Utterly uninspiring and resulted in my daughter taking video for me to see what I was missing. Thankfully it only took around fifteen minutes of negotiation to encourage her to move upstairs so I could see.
We ventured into the food hall for the first time this year and found a stall selling honey roasted nuts, olives and baklava. By the time they had me try every flavour my allergies would allow I was feeling pretty full, but we all love this food so I may have bought a little too much (these are delicious basil and mint olives).
Before and after. Well worth the adjustments for a better view of the show.
The infamous Poppy
Two years ago I took my youngest (I was driving and had full mobility then) to this same show and she met and fell in love with one of the mares. This week we are finally planning on going to see her at the farm attraction she lives at (I have everything crossed that she will be there).
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