Patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) struggle with muscle weakness that severely impairs mobility over time. However, this shouldn’t necessarily prevent patients from travelling. As long as you know your limits and take proactive steps to ensure that mobility access is available, you can still have a good travel experience.
Plan ahead
First of all, it is important to be honest with yourself about your (or your child’s) current health status. If you are planning travel for a child who can still walk independently, will the amount of walking be more than they are used to?
If you require mobility access, research and plan ahead to ensure that the places you are visiting have accessibility accommodations. Many attractions and event centers have accessibility information available online; Google Street View can also be a helpful resource. If you are planning to use public transportation, check to ensure that mobility access is provided for.
It may be a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local clinics and hospitals at your destination in case any medical needs arise. Do not forget to let your doctor know if you are traveling for an extended period of time to ensure that you are given enough medication for your time away from home.
Read more about DMD treatment and care
Communicate your needs
If you are staying at a hotel or with a host, communicate your mobility needs in advance. Ask for a ground floor room if that will make your trip easier, or for a room close to handicap parking.
If you are traveling by plane, you might want to let the airline know about any special assistance that you may require. This is especially true if you use a power wheelchair, which must be stored in the cargo hold during the flight and requires extra preparation.
Make sure you carry with you medical documents that may help local doctors understand your condition and your needs, should an emergency arise.
It is important to be mindful of physical limitations and how they impact travel. Prioritize self-care and take adequate rest as needed. If you are traveling in a group, it may be a good idea to discuss your needs in advance.
Making the most of your travel
Traveling is often seen as an opportunity to explore a new place and enjoy different cultures, even if you are only traveling for work. A diagnosis of DMD should not prevent you from making the most of your travels and enjoying your stay.
If you take the necessary precautions and listen to your body, there is no reason why you can’t have an enjoyable and enriching travel experience.
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