How to Keep up on big outings

[Ojibajo]

My son has been bugging me to take him to Cedar Point or Michigan Adventure. I doubt that we will go to Cedar Point but Michigan Adventure seems more reasonable. I really can't go on any of the rides. I used to be able to go on anything but I am not prone to motion sickness, I even get car sick which is why I almost always drive.

My question is, with the heat and fatigue issues (made worse by the heat,) does anyone have any advice on how to keep up with everyone on big outings like this, My hope is to quickly convince him to head to the water park. :) That may be difficult though since he is currently obsessed with roller coasters.

Thanks!

[Ojibajo]

It looks like we have decided on Michigan's Adventure (cheaper, much closer and the water park is included in the admission fee.).

Sumanadevii  - The baby isn't really a baby. She's two so there are rides that she can go on as well as the water park. But she'll be with me when her mom goes on the roller coasters. Unlike me, even after 3 kids, she doesn't get motion sickness. So I can take care of her 2-year old when she goes on those rides, and of course there is the water park. (Which I will be looking forward to.)

Staying home is not an option, unless it rains.

Her son is a year younger than mine so they can go on the rides together.

I will make sure to wear good shoes, and my orthotics and will save my flip flops for the water park. I'll also have Flexeril and Naproxen with me just in case.

The cooling tips from everyone where helpful too! Thanks for those! I'll be sure to let you all know how it goes!

Amy

[essdipity]

Whenever you're on a big trek, especially with a lot of people who now can walk faster than you can, a really good pair of shoes can help you. I mean big ugly running sneakers, custom fitted for you. You won't be running, but you will be getting the right support so your feet and legs get less tired.

And yes, I love summer shoes.  Cute little sandals, flip-flops--bring 'em on! But this year I'm stuck in my sneakers, wearing a brace on my right ankle, and hating every minute of it. I look lovingly at all my unworn sandals. Sigh.

However, I'm able to walk much farther. I can now go to a big supermarket and get a medium-sized order without using the market's electric carts. Yay! Still having big Achilles trouble, but otherwise things are much better.

So, wear your cute little shoes when walkiing isn't much of an issue, but when you really need to keep up without falling over from fatigue, good shoes are so important.

ess

[jmac3x]

I am headed to the Orlando-theme-park madness for a few days and am a bit apprehensive about the whole thing, too.  I am just going to focus on staying as hydrated as possible, and resting whenever I can.  I can't do roller coasters either.. no way.

Do any of you take medication to address symptoms once they occur?  I am on neurontin for back/leg pain, and find I need to take extra when in extreme situations like this.  I was wondering if there is anything else I should ask about or bring with me.  

Thanks.

[maestro1959]

I am now in a wheelchair, so it is a bit easier for me.  I have a couple of those water pouch backpacks.  I fill it full of ice then with water, and hang it on the push handles of my chair.  That gives me access to water instantly.  If you wear one on your back it cools a bit, too.  I used to use them when bicycling my 100 mile rides.  They work well.  Mine are from The North Face, and the larger has room for other things.  I keep a couple of the microfiber towels (like swimmers use) inside on water pouch.  Then I always have a cool cloth.  You could do that with your neck wraps.  That would  serve a dual purpose.  I hope this works a little.  Have a good time.  I am from Flint, and that is such a nice destination for a fun time.  I really hope you have a terrific day.

[sllowe]

Oji,

Yikes -is the whole place rides? If so, I'd have to pass. You are going to need lots of breaks in the shade, and they are going to be on lines.

Doesn't sound like much fun to by you there to me :(  Unless they have some nice spots to sit, and see things. What's their website look like?

Wishing you some comfort in your decision,
-Shell

[Sumanadevii]

Buddha girl, if that is your only choice stay home.  Are you not remembering how a baby reacts to being stuck in a stroller all day?  Remember how they hate being overheated?  Remember the screaming and crying?  This ain't a place for a baby to enjoy.  The baby will be miserable and so will you.

[Ojibajo]

Oops I meant to type I am NOW prone to motion sickness.

Thanks for the ideas. There are no fast passes at Michigan Adventure or Cedar Point (now owned but the same company), but Cedar Point now has special access doors onto the rides for those using wheelchairs while the rest of their part waits in the regular line. I don't think I will need a wheelchair. My left leg tends to act up in the heat/humidity, but I think it will be okay. I don't have a cooling vest but I have those neck wraps that you wet and put in the fridge. I can bring those and maybe get some extras for the cooler. I am hoping that my friend and her son can come with us and since I can't go on rides, I guess I am the designated baby-holder!

[patientnurse]

I recently went to the state fair. I sat at EVERY available bench/table there was. I let my hubby and kids do all the standing in line, and when they were close enough to the entrance, I would join them. I also took a pain pill right when I got there. The only thing that bummed me out was wanting to get some Greek food and the walk was waaaay to far for me. I didn't wanna be a bother to anyone else so I just sucked it up and stayed quiet. So be sure to use a map so you can plan your visit and places to rest/eat, etc...

Hope you have fun,
Chanda

[kerrtelli]

I went to six flags new England with the kids.
I rented a scooter.  They gave me a fast pass which got me on the rides without waiting.
I was able to bring one kid with me.

The water park was great because I just sat in the water.

Hope that helps.

Kerri

[Lulu54]

Sumana gave you some excellent tips.  I just survived a day in Orlando at the Mouse World in 90+ heat.  It can be done, but it was exhausting.  Plan it out and figure how to pace yourself.

good luck, Lulu

[Sumanadevii]

I would invite and pay for a ticket for an older cousin or neighborhood kid that can go on rides with him.  Upon entering the park get a map and use it!!  Start at point A and find a bench and let the boys run off to the rides close by but making them check in with you,  You stay on the bench drinking water...lots of water...I used to just take a drinking cup, fill it with water and pour it over my head.  I also kept a wet towel around my neck.  Errr..this was before I knew it was MS but surely it was...The heat and walking always did me in.  Also today they have cooling vests..You might find that helpful.

That was how I did it with my younger sons but there was a never ending line of older brothers willing to (COUGHS) give up a day to help the little guys out...lol

Good luck and have fun!