Managing Walking Difficulties at Leadership Conference: A Personal Experience

[ltkacz]

Ok...no, it's not "walking the stage".

I have a slipped disk or a hip problem (won't know for sure until the 31st when I see the orthopedic doctor) which makes it extremely difficult for me to walk and to sit in the car for any length of time. It is also very painful at night when I'm sleeping.

I've registered for conference, and I'm driving (about 3-4 hours) to conference. I'm not sure I can make the car trip let alone walk around conference. I do believe my director has reservations at the Hyatt, which I'm splitting 3 ways.

I understand at this point no refund on conference, and I of course would not leave my fellow consultants out of luck and would pay for my portion of the room should I not go.

I'm wondering - how much walking is there at Leadership? I'm assuming it's a lot, and considering I can barely walk 20 feet without my leg falling asleep, I'm not sure how in the world I'm going to walk around conference. I will be completely bummed if I can't go, but at this point, it's not looking promissing as things are getting worse.

I didn't want to make a final decision until the 31st when I see the orthopedic doctor, but I'll be honest - it's looking grim - and I'M BUMMED (acutally crying)!!!

 

[cmdtrgd]

I would look into getting a wheelchair. I don't know how far it will be spread out because I have never been to Cincinnati.

 

[pamperedlinda]

.......I understand at this point no refund on conference, .......

I believe that HO will refund your registration fee if you can't go.

Hope you feel better and that you'll be up to making the trip.

 

[chefann]

Last year, the workshops weren't as spread out as at Conference, but still more than a few steps. Of course, it was at a completely different convention center, which is a major factor.

 

[cmdtrgd]

One more thing, I have a "stiky" sacra illiac (sp?) joint. Basically, my hip moves back, but has a harder time moving forward again. Before it was diagnosed and physical therapy prescribed, I was using a heating pad and I felt like I wanted someone to pull my leg out of socket to make it feel better. Now, when I feel it coming on again, I ice it, lay on my back and pull my knee up to my chest to put it back in place. Why am I telling you this? Try ice, ibuprophen and stretching before bed. Try getting a wheelchair and a friend to push you from class to class. If you have to leave because you hurt, then do it. But, try to go!!!

 

[BethCooks4U]

I hope you are able to go because the training is awesome at leadership! But if you can't go notify HO in writing and they will refund all but $50 of your registration fee.