A new wagon helps me transport my kids more easily
Carrying a baby and a nonambulatory child can be physically taxing
A few weeks ago, my grandparents and I purchased a wagon for my kids. I have a 5-year-old son, Cayden, and a 7-month-old son, Kyree. I’ve wanted a wagon for them for quite some time now, and we were finally able to make it happen.
While this may not seem like a huge deal to some, it is for our family. Cayden is unable to move independently because of infantile-onset Pompe disease. It’s weakened his muscles, and unfortunately, he’ll never walk on his own. Because of this, he relies on his wheelchair and adults to transport him from place to place.
Cayden’s wheelchair is a big help. But ever since I had his little brother, things have been tricky. It’s nearly impossible to push Cayden’s wheelchair while holding Kyree, especially as he grows and gains weight.
I’m a single mother to the boys, and I’ve been able to adapt fairly well. But there’s only so much I can physically do on my own. I’d say I’m pretty strong, considering I lift and carry Cayden, who’s about 40 pounds. However, this is starting to affect my body.
My back and hips ache, and by the end of the day, I feel beat. There’s not much I can do about it, though. I need to get Cayden from place to place, and Kyree is too young to walk, so I just push through.
Thankfully, since we got the wagon, things have been a bit easier. Sure, it takes a while to get it out of the trunk of the car and set it up. Then I have to load the boys into it and buckle them in. However, I’d rather take those few extra minutes and save my body some stress than try to move quickly and end up feeling the effects at the end of the day.
I’ve been using the wagon to take the boys into the store with me when I need to pick up a few things. And recently, I used it to take them to a local pond to feed the ducks. The wagon even has a canopy to keep the hot summer sun off of their little bodies. That’s one of the best parts!
Kyree, left, and Cayden enjoy feeding the ducks while in their wagon. (Photo by Keara Engle)
I only wish we’d gotten a wagon sooner. Unfortunately, they’re pretty expensive, especially if you’re buying one with additional features. I’m so grateful that my family was willing to help with the cost. Without them, this purchase wouldn’t have been possible — at least, not anytime soon.
I look forward to all of our adventures with the wagon, and I’m sure my boys do, too. Cayden absolutely loves riding around with his baby brother. While we won’t be able to use it forever, it’s a great solution for the time being.
Note: Pompe Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Pompe Disease News or its parent company, BioNews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Pompe disease.
About the Author
Comments