Judy: Appendix V, a.

Clothing

The following are some suggestions for purchase and adaptations which we have found successful for comfortable and attractive wheelchair attire.

1. Dresses - These are purchased or made at least one size larger than my former size to allow freedom for shoulder movement and room for the bulky brace. I avoid fitted clothing and dresses with a waistline. All my dresses are split up the back (bound and reinforced), from the hem to approximately the waist level. This allows graceful draping and arranging for wheelchair sitting. (While this procedure works fine for me because I do not leave my wheelchair, it wold be unsatisfactory for someone who transfers from the chair in public.)

2. Blouses and tops - Knit tops, jerseys and sweaters seem to fit, look and feel better than regular cloth blouses. Because of developed shoulder and arm muscles along with loss of muscle tone elsewhere, I find a size larger than normal to be more comfortable.

Judy: Part III, a.

Part III
9 P.M. to 1 A.M. - Evening Care
A. Once back in bed and undressed, evening care never varies. It always includes:
1. A thorough inspection of the skin of the hips, buttocks, heels, etc. for any signs of red or white spots. In the event one is found, it is rubbed with ointment or powder until the color approaches normal.
2. A thorough washing, rinsing and patting dry of all strategic areas. We use abundant Desetin powder in the rear folds and a coating of vaseline from a plastic tube in the front folds of the thighs. (We use the type type vaseline because it remains untouched until used. We apply it to the groin area because we have found this delicate skin to be inclined to slough and split and have been very pleased with the results of this precaution.)
3. Nightgown on, face and hands washed and the ritual is completed.

Judy: Part II, a.

Part II
1 p.m. to 9 p.m. - Living
A. Once situated in the wheelchair or chaise lounge for the day, I need many special devices, adaptations and household arrangements to make any routine activity possible. Before describing my afternoon's schedule, I will try to list and explain most of the self-help equipment involved.
1. Within the house, for my convenience, we have included:
a. A low level light switch on the wall which is easy to reach from a wheelchair.
b. A sink, located next to a door for easy access, which includes an individual control faucet rather than the dual control type. This make is possible for me ot ride to the side of the sink and control the flow and temperature of water with the pressure from only one. hand.
c. A desk, which is elevated on blocks for easy access from a wheelchair and is used for reading, writing and typing projects.
d. A large elevated dining counter, with plenty of leg room underneath, is for mealtimes and some of my more ambitious projects.
e. Slow grade ramps replace any outdoor steps and lead to doors amply wide for a wheelchair.