SHHHH! The rain seems to have Stopped!

In my last column, I mentioned an upcoming airline trip — not because it was pleasure but because I almost always have some disability–related incident that is, shall we say, not quite empowering?

Well, the incident was small, but it still occurred. On the United Express flight I took from Portland Maine to Dulles (in Virginia) the flight attendant informed me "in case of an emergency which is unlikely, you sit in your seat and wait for me to come help you. I won't forget you, after everybody is off the plane I'll come." Hmmmm! (I thought to myself) "Me? Sit in my seat and wait? Not very likely!"

I walked onto the plane under my own power, I didn't request "special assistance". And, I guess I … Well, I didn't say anything out loud, but my neighbor in the next seat later asked me, "What was that about?” I said I guessed it was some attempt to make me feel "special". He said, "Bet you won't sit still if something happens!" (And this guy didn't even know me!)

Ah, those little indignities!

Other than that, it was a great trip, learning aand interacting with folks involved in consumer directed services.

But I digress. The Rain! The large amount of it, that is, was the subjectof talk and news while I was in the Washington DC area. I was lucky and got into my hotel before transit and traffic were clogged up by excessive water.

One of our conference attendees, however, took a train ride which should have lasted two and a half hours — that ride took nineteen and a half hours! I was impressed. She got to the training late, radiating joy and ready to learn!

So, how do you prepare for travel emergencies?
Do you sit and wait for the attendant? (smile)

Here are a few things I try to do.

1. Look at any and all web sites concerning my route of travel. Write down important details and stow them on my person. (This helps when ordinary and out of the ordinary things occur, I’m ready to explore alternatives and options if necessary.

2. I carry a battery powered radio on my person. Its great for airport or terminal waiting rooms, and better for getting local info in case you need it.

3. Put a snack together. Maybe two snacks, depending on the length of the itinerary. Airport and terminal food is OK in a pinch, but what about times when there is nothing?

4. Carry a phone card. These can be used at any pay phones I've ever encountered, with a charge, and can also be used on any office or residential phone. Staying in touch makes sense — folks worry less and I can adjust plans as necessary.

5. My luggage options — I carry what will get me through at least 24 hours. Maybe not as "normal" would be, but enough to survive.

6. Be a bit pessimistic! Figure that something will happen to disturb well made plans! That way, if it does, the stress is less! And if it doesn't? I can feel like a winner!

Stories of being stuck somewhere can be good or bad depending on the level of preparation. I encourage you to make Your plans accordingly so when you head for the other side of the door you’ll be as comfortable as possible.

Having said all of this, I’ll probably be caught somewhere with my proverbial "pants down"! But, I'll keep going out — it's my favorite passtime!!