MSSANT Network Winter 15 WEB NEW 220615

Cruising with Stephen
Mary-Anne Edge
In the lead up to the MSSANT Travel Forum on 20 July,
one of our SA Clients wanted to share his recent
travel experience.
In 2014, Stephen was fortunate to be granted a MS Choice
Award which provided funds towards an overseas holiday.
Stephen was excited about the prospect of going on a
holiday, and felt it would give him the opportunity to have
something positive to reflect back on and remember. In
January this year, Stephen set sail on the holiday of a
lifetime – a 12 night P&O cruise to the Pacific Islands.
Stephen knew this would be a unique experience, and as he
has lost his sight, he travelled in a wheelchair and brought a
friend with him.
The cruise had everything Stephen could hope for –
island-hopping, tender boats, beaches, cyclones, rough
seas, amazing food and drink, great company and lots and
lots of fun. The highlight for Stephen was the entertainment.
He loved the music, the shows and the disco. He could feel
the rain and hear the waves crashing against the boat. Even
though it was hard work getting onto the islands, there were
new experiences to enjoy such as the locals playing their
drums, the intense heat, and making new friends.
But, it could have been better. There were many simple
things that if provided would have made the experience
more comfortable. Things like a suitable shower chair, a
toilet raise, a bed rail, and a telephone that could be reached
from the bed. The disabled toilets were located within the
gents or ladies bathrooms, making it hard to access them
when your carer is the opposite sex. Being blind, it was often
hard to get bar service, and to know if the staff were there
ready to serve. Stephen was also unable to access the
pools or spas.
Would Stephen cruise again? He sure would, but he would
want these shortcomings addressed. His advice to others
living with MS is to ensure your sleeping and personal care
needs can be accommodated before your trip commences.
And, if you use a wheelchair, travel with a carer.
Armed with the right knowledge and preparation, travel
can be comfortable, rewarding and incredibly fun.
Come to the Travel Forum and learn more about it.
Details can be found on page 13.
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Winter 2015 The MS Society of South Australia & Northern Territory