I want to travel abroad (Cruise maybe???)- I have never travelled on my own before - I am 74 years old????
Hi everyone... please help me....... I am a fairly confident person - 'fairly' - and I am working on that!!! I had a lovely partner who understood everything about my narcolepsy and cataplexy... we were together for over 22 years but he sadly died of Parkinson's disease an Covid 19 related symptoms. I am so, so, so very lonely, I look young for my age and apart from severe pain in my back I am full of life and want to get out there and live life to the fullest!!!.. I would love to go on holiday but I have noone to come with me????? I have tried the internet dating sites but all that the men seem to want is my body!!! I thought that a cruise might be a good idea as I wouldn't have to worry about anything, however, I am quite a shy person (at first) and would not want to be a burden on anyone who befriended me etc, etc.. Please give me some advice as to what I should do or where I should go for a holiday - I haven't had a holiday for about 15 years!!!!! (My Narcolepsy AND Cataplexy are really severe and I do not leave my house very often.... I do NOT want to become a recluse and I could literally dance ALL night!!!! What oh What can I do???? Please HELP ME????? Regards Patricia (from Portsmouth in Hampshire)
Hi Patricia (
). I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you. How awesome that you want to get out there and enjoy life to the fullest though. You can do this, I'm sure, but your safety has to come first. Would you consider a cruise or a trip with a group? Often, local offices of the AAA will plan group travel events that you could sign up for. Sometimes, local churches arrange group travel as well. Maybe you could talk with the organizers in advance and let them know about your concerns. They might be willing to ensure than someone always keep tabs on you, especially when it comes to getting off and on public transportation. Have you talked with your doctor about your desire to travel? A change in medications might help.
Please don't worry about being a burden. When people get to know you, they won't be concerend about your narcolepsy. Give them a chance rather than assuming you would be a burden. They might surprise you. Another option for a first trip on your own is a narcolepsy conference. Certainly, no one would feel burdened by you there! A couple of organizations offer narcolepsy conferences at different times of the year. Just google "narcolepsy conference." I would be careful to talk with flight attendents, bus drivers -- whoever is on charge of your transportation, though about your narcolepsy, so they can ensure that you get off or on when you need to.
I hope this helps and that you are able to travel when and where you like. Please keep us updated. I would love to know that you were able to make it happen. Warm wishes. - Lori (Team Member)
