I’ve got to travel from Nottingham to Birmingham on Tuesday for work. There wasn’t any reserved seating available and I’m worried what I’ll do if it’s busy as I won’t be able to stand. I’m not visibly disabled so don’t think anyone would offer me a seat if full and I’m worried about asking for one if I need to! What would you do?
I would see if I could get a walking stick (the folding ones are very good) from somewhere, as a visible sign that you have a problem. If you can catch hold of a guard, they may be able to help ensure that you get a seat. I look absolutely fine too,but there is no way that I could stand for more than a few minutes without feeling like I would keel over. Appearances can be deceptive, walking aids are a very useful indicator that we don’t always feel as good as we look.
Mags 
xx
Thanks Mags. I had wondered about a stick. It feels like a big step though 
That’s so true, also people are more likely to hold doors open for you, less likely to tut loudly because you walk slowly in front of them and I have been offered a place at the front of a long queue in the supermarket to save me having to stand (I did refuse that kind offer from the person at the front of the queue because I was v aware of the other 5 customers between us!)
Not sure if I’d go as far as proud to use a stick/crutches but, if it’s needed, there are some advantages…
It does feel like a big step at first Sunflower, but if you get a folding one, you can stick it in your handbag when you don’t need it and no one will be any the wiser. At least then you have one, should you need it at any time.
I use mine in the same way Jennifer. My balance it terrible, and trying to wobble around people in the supermarket was a real mission (why is it always us who are expected to move?). I do feel the slight temptation to use it as a jousting lance on those who still won’t budge, but I’ve managed to control myself so far (makes me smile thinking about it though)!
Mags xx
I’ll maybe have to bite the bullet then! I feel a bit of a fraud - at the minute my walking isn’t too bad. Just a bit wobbly at times. But I know that if I’d had to stand for an hour plus I’d be fit for nothing by the time I got there! Thanks everyone
Yep, get that folding stick…you could always use it to accidentally prod anyone who pushes you or shoves in front of you to get a seat, eh?
pollx
I look ok too at the moment and can walk ok, but can’t stand for more than 5 minutes! I used a fold up stick when I was wobbly during a relapse and it was great People stopped bumping into me as I staggered along and cars even stopped for me. It’s a great idea. I was worried I would find it depressing the first time but I found it empowering instead. I hope the journey goes ok for you.