Perks and Pat Downs

Looking on the positive side of the recovery process is this perk.

Temporary Handicap Permit

I've always been envious of those handicap parking spaces.  Seriously! Especially when they are all empty and I have to park so far away. For the next 6 months I'll need/get to use the handicap spaces. Something about not being able to bend or twist will make it a bit difficult to get into the car, especially in those tight little spaces at Walmart.  Also since it will be exhausting to walk it will be very helpful to be able to park close to the stores. 

Yesterday I had a nice conversation with a TSA Cares associate.  I'm going to be flying home after surgery and needed to know what to expect at the security check point. She was so nice and was very emphatic that I needed to let them know what I was and was not able to do. I won't be able to go through the metal detector because you aren't allowed to go through in a wheelchair, walker or someone assisting you.  My surgeon will not allow me to walk without assistance for at least the first week. I'll be too weak and my center of balance will be off.  I also won't be able to do the body scan because I won't be able to stand unassisted and raise my hands above my head (after having all my back muscles cut through). So that leaves a pat-down.  I'll be wearing my back brace so will probably request a private room so I can sit down and remove it if needed. I was told to tell them they cannot touch my back as it will be much too sensitive. If I can just skip the pat-down and have them do a test for explosives residue that would be even better.  ;)  One nice thing though is I will be allowed to bring my instant cold compress in my carry-on. The liquid rule doesn't apply to medically necessary products. 
I'll let you know how it goes.