Amazing at 97!

Visiting a Retirement Home, I met a charming lady who was 97. I watched her walk down the corridor holding tightly the handrail as she went. She was very unstable on her legs, and I couldn't help smiling at her insistence, as she held her head up high, trying to remain dignified as she wobbled ungainly making her way to the dining room. I asked a nurse who was standing next to me why this lady didn't use a walker or at the very least a cane. I was told she absolutely refuses to be seen walking with a cane. So many people I have met are too proud or vain (sometimes a little of both) to use an aid if they need one. I am half this lady's age, and I don't have a problem using a crutch. I have been walking with a crutch for four years now, and without it, I would have fallen many a time. I am unstable on my feet due to the Parkinson, and have fragile bones from the Gaucher! The last thing I need, is to fall and break a bone. Using a crutch is a necessity for me, and also makes others around me aware of my situation, causing them to pay attention, not to push, or if young children are running around, not to bump into me. If you need a cane, crutch or walker, even a wheel chair, it's for your own safety and quality of life, so just take a big breathe, and accept change, don't look at it negatively, but as a positive aid that will help you. Put your vanity and pride aside, and think about what's really important. I am quite sure this charming 97 year old lady would appear no less lovely with a cane!