Episode 004 -- JoCo Cruise

Housekeeping

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Let's Talk about Cruising

 

[caption id="attachment_87" align="alignleft" width="300"] I did a full round of PT and OT exercises at the rail of the ms Oosterdam overlooking Cabo San Lucas.[/caption]

Last month I joined the 8th Annual JoCo Cruise. It was my 6th time with the group and my first as a traveler with disabilities.

It's a full boat charter of Holland America's ms Oosterdam. 1500 folks joined us for this week-long nerd summer camp. I always have a great time and recommend it to anyone interested in geeky pursuits, board gaming, science fiction, fantasy, writing, podcasting, and great music. The community, while not perfect, is fantastic.

I also found it to be quite accessible. While the buffet proved challenging, the staff was incredibly helpful. My accessible cabin was comfortable and the roll in shower meant I didn't have to step over a tub wall.

It was also the first time I've been in a pool since my stroke. It was interesting learning more about buoyancy and my affected limbs. It gave me a chance to actually JUMP on my weak leg.

[caption id="attachment_88" align="aligncenter" width="300"] This is my sunburn on the first day I burned. The burn line is from my GivMohr sling. I was wearing SPF 70 at the time.[/caption][caption id="attachment_91" align="aligncenter" width="300"] There is a cord near the shower head. As a warning, don't mistake it for a clothes line that failed to retract. It's actually an emergency cord that calls the stateroom attendant to your shower in case you have an emergency. I don't recommend tugging on it to retract it.[/caption][caption id="attachment_90" align="aligncenter" width="300"] The beds are slightly smaller than twin size, but they are reasonably comfortable. I did have to request a special extension cord for my CPAP machine.[/caption][caption id="attachment_92" align="aligncenter" width="300"] There is actually a decent amount of space in the small, inexpensive cabin. The couch also turns into a couch to accommodate a third person. That might be a bit too cramped, though.[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_86" align="aligncenter" width="300"] The theater on the ship had a full row of accessible seating on the same level of the doors. It was convenient and the view was still pretty good.[/caption]

 

Hack of the Week

Carry a bag.

I often carry a nylon tote bag like these Chicobags (affiliate link). Carrying stuff is difficult in general. One hand doesn't work yet and one carries the cane or holds the handrail on the stair.

I use it for my coffee thermos, phone, tablet, paper notebook, getting the mail, or whatever other random carrying I need to do.

It's a simple thing, but sometimes the simplest things are the most helpful.

Where do we go from here?

1. What are your thoughts on cruising, conventions, and other nerdy activities. Share them in the comments below.
2. Please leave a rating or review for Strokecast in the Apple Podcasts store.
3. Want to learn more about the JoCo Cruise or book for next year? Visit Strokecast.com/joco
4. Subscribe to the National Stroke Association's Stroke Smart magazine here.
5. Check out the assortment of Facebook stroke support groups here.
6. Don't get best…get better

Here is the latest episode of The Strokecast