After three visits to the Hanger Clinic with no measurements or braces selected or ordered, I have decided not to get leg braces. Honestly, I know that I won’t wear them. I won’t wear them volunteering in the garden shop, or gardening in the yard. I won’t wear them shopping or going out to dinner or travel with them either. Knowing this and the fact that I have a pair from years ago, (that I did wear) are sitting in the closet for over 10 years. I pulled them out recently and brought them to PT to see if they would still work. I outgrew them so they’re useless. This bothers me because I can’t donate them, (specifically made for me). I can’t give them back, I thought maybe they could use different parts. It kills me to throw them out, but that is what I’ll end up doing.

I went in my closet this morning to get them and take a picture and I couldn’t find them. I did find another pair called “posterior adjustable night splints.”that I never wore. The black ones below. I couldn’t imagine wearing them to bed. I also found a single brace for my right foot and leg that I also never wore and didn’t know I had. Don’t know where the other pair is, maybe in the car. I pulled out three nice canes that I used to use and have no use for. One is black and cobalt blue, one is black and silver and the third one is one my daughter custom covered for me to use for my wedding. It is covered with lace with pearls around the bottom. I want to donate these to the MS Society.

I told Pete on the phone and he insisted that I need them, they help me walk, and knowing him insurance covers them so why not? I told him that I would run it by Stephanie, (physical therapist), see if she could talk me into getting them. The following day I had PT and I started with, “Stephanie, you’re not going to like what I have to tell you.” She turned around, looked at me and smiled. I said that “I decided not to get leg braces, that honestly I wouldn’t wear them and at my age I don’t think they would make a big difference.” Again she smiled and said, “okay.” She appreciated my honesty, said it had nothing to do with my age and they were just another tool to help me and if I felt that way it’s no big deal. So that’s that. Decision made and I feel good about it.