GALA BIRTHDAY DINNER

                                                                                                                       Sharon W.

                                                                                                                                                                                                           

 GALA BIRTHDAY DINNER

 

            I have a date everyday with my husband.  The last three years of our thirty year marriage he has been disabled.  October 20, 2013, we celebrated my birthday at LongHorn Steakhouse.  Meaning:  We celebrated my birthday at this restaurant because it is my husband’s favorite place to eat.  It holds sentimental value for the both of us, because it was one of the restaurants that we ate at during our honeymoon.

            The restaurant had good Accessibility.  Parking spaces for people with disabilities were close to the front door.  The ramp for wheelchair accessibility was wide.  The building had double doors for easy accessibility to accommodate a wheelchair or emergency equipment.  My husband has a wheelchair for his use.  I try to encourage him to walk as much as possible.  He does walk with a cane for stability. 

            Sociality:  The atmosphere in the restaurant was very romantic.  The staff was friendly and very helpful in seating us and assisting with the menu choices.  My husband met two other couples that he immediately grew attached too.  Crowding was not a problem here.  The aisles were wide and could accommodate a wheelchair at the end of the table.  We sat in a booth for Privacy.  This allowed us to talk without interfering with other people in the restaurant.  Due to the stroke that my husband suffered, his voice has changed to be heavy when he speaks.  I could Control his behavioral movements and gestures without being seen.  As a result of the stroke, his left side of his body is weaker and he does not have full control of his movements at all times.  I could help him with his eating utensils and with drinking.  While enjoying our meal, I interviewed him for my assignment.  Please see the following video below.

                                                                                                    

                                                                
             After our lovely dinner together, we returned home.  We enjoyed the rest of the evening by watching a movie.  I try to have peace and comfort in my home as much as possible. 
Comfort:  Makes a person with disabilities feel happy, because their environment facilitates their needs.  Knowing that they are safe, respected, and loved means so much to them.  Keeping a sense of humor is also important.  I communicate with my husband through talking, laughter, crying, and delete anger from the equation.  He has suffered two strokes and a heart attack.  His body has gone through great trauma.  To feel comfort is a very important task for him. 

CONCLUSION        

            Adaptability:  Twenty-seven years of our lives together, we both were normal individuals.  Never did we ever think of one of us becoming disabled.  We have worked and raised a family.  We have talked and planned for retirement.  We never planned for disability.  This has been a major adjustment to our lives.  We are still learning to cope and adapt to our disability and environments.  I use the term “We” because as a married couple, the disability is not only for one person.   It is for both individuals.  I have learned to slow down and have patience with my partner.  I still remember him as the “All American Football Player”.  I do treasure the time that we still have together.  I think that we both have adapted well to our new lifestyle.  Caring for someone with physical needs is rewarding. 

            I think this assignment was good to engage in.  It made you stop and reflect on people that have disability needs.  It made someone with a disability feel good.