A Beautiful Step Forward for Codee

Codee has had to rely on her wheelchair for many years. Always in winter, and in summer mostly for longer distances or busy days. But that is slowly starting to change.

Healthier eating and more movement

Because Codee has lost weight and started eating healthier, she feels stronger. Extra protein has really helped her muscles. We had already been swimming together on Tuesdays for a while. Since the beginning of this year, something new has been added: walking with a white cane for the blind.

Walking with a white cane

Codee didn’t start this on her own. She received support from Bartiméus. She has now learned two familiar routes, which she can walk completely independently. The routes are not long, and there are places along the way where she can rest.

For her, this means more independence. She no longer has to wait for me to have time to go out together. It gives her more freedom, also to plan her own appointments.

Proud of her

I am very proud of how things are improving. In the beginning, I walked behind her at a distance. That was difficult, because of course I wanted to help if something happened. But I tried to step in as little as possible.

Most of the “mistakes” weren’t even hers, but caused by other people. Many people don’t pay attention or don’t understand what a white cane means. For example, cyclists riding on the sidewalk, or people quickly crossing while Codee is already standing at a zebra crossing with her cane extended.

A visit to the Veine Days

On March 22, we went together to the Veine Days in Utrecht. This is an exhibition with information and tools for people with disabilities. We spoke with several organizations:

• Bartiméus: They will continue to guide Codee with her cane training and will give a workshop at her day activity center.
• Stichting Fivel Hond & Assistentie: Codee still has too much vision for a guide dog, but we had a good conversation and can now help as a temporary home for trained dogs.
• Worldwide Vision: We learned about accessories for the cane, like different tips and rolling balls. Codee took an extra one as backup.
• Geldmaat: Codee learned how to withdraw money using a headset. The screen turns off and the machine gives spoken instructions, which helps her use it independently.

New tools and useful apps

At Lotgenootje, we bought small tools shaped like a cat and a dog to help relax muscles and reduce pain.

At Multilens, Codee got a new filter lens. She tried different colors and even tested them outside with a staff member. That was really great service!

We also joined a workshop about helpful apps, such as:

• Lees Simpel: This app makes difficult letters easier to understand. You take a photo, and the app explains it in simple language.

We also learned more about AI and ChatGPT.

Learning in real life

The day was busy and educational. We also practiced walking through a crowded station and city. I only helped when it was really necessary. This allowed Codee to experience what it’s like when people are not paying attention—like people on their phones or in conversation.

There were also many obstacles on the guiding lines for the blind. One person even tripped over her cane and almost fell into the theater we were heading to.

Hope for the future

I am truly proud of Codee. After almost two months, we can see how much more independent she has become, especially in her own neighborhood. How much she can walk still depends on her muscles and her chronic condition. The wheelchair will not disappear, but she now has more options.

Finally: the WMO meeting

Lastly, we want to share that it was time again for the WMO meeting to extend her day activity support. This time, we sat together with four people: the municipal consultant, a staff member from the day activity center, an independent supporter, and us.

It was good that everyone was present, so everything could be properly discussed and arranged.

During the meeting, Codee did most of the talking. I only added something when it was really needed. Thankfully, her support has been extended again. We hope it will be for a longer period this time, because arranging everything every year takes a lot of energy.

You may remember the earlier issues with transport. There is still no direct solution, but it has been clearly discussed. In the coming weeks, they will look at the best option—for transport to the day activities and other places. We hope to get more clarity soon.

Thank you for reading and for your support!