Being in denial about your abilities is something I am oh so, familiar with. You struggle daily, pretending that everything's okay, until something happens. A fall in the shower, a collapse when preparing dinner. Something happens that makes you realise: Hey, I need help completing day to day tasks. And that's okay. I was always so stubborn and proud that mobility and living aids would take away my independence, when in reality: they give you independence. The everyday tasks you've been become so scared of doing, or are unable to do, aren't impossible anymore.

Millercare provides mobility and living aids, and personally, I don't feel we talk about aids that people with a disability might need, anywhere near enough. It's a taboo topic, something that's hushed and forgotten about. But it's something I live with everyday: so let's talk about it.

Shower Stool

For me, showering and bathing has always been extremely difficult because of my Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. Two of the triggers to bring on the symptoms are:

•  Standing in one place for too long. 
• Extreme change in temperature.   

So you can see why baths and showers are somewhat tricky for me. Showers are a lot easier for me, in general (besides the whole standing up business!). That's why shower stools are absolutely incredible. It may seem small to you, but being able to shower on my own, without my husband waiting outside in case I fall, or need assistance, is a bit of independence I am glad to take back.

Footstool with Handrail

Making food and washing up is also something I struggle with on a daily basis. Again, standing in one place, for more than a few minutes is something that proves difficult. I'm lucky enough to have a husband that cooks and washes up, and is a Domestic God but there are times when guilt plagues me and I want to help. I feel like I need to help. Whether it's a perching stool, or a foot stool with a handrail, something to give me balance and security, again, I am given back some independence.

And then the final step, admitting I need a wheelchair. Not for everyday. Most days I won't leave my flat but for long days, days when I need to be out for more than a few hours. I need one, I do. I'm still coming to terms with this one. I know I need one but I'm still in denial about my particular mobility ability. I'm almost ready to buy a wheelchair, and I will. It will give me back my life. I'll be able to leave the house on my own, I'll be able to start doing things by myself and I'll be ready, just in my own time.

It's a big step admitting you need help, so don't put yourself down if you're not there yet. But when you are, you'll have a whole host of aids to start taking your life back.