(August 21)
Dear Folks,
We are delighted to report that we are in Drummondville. It took us three hours to get through Montreal. We would hate to have to do that every day.
More soon.
Hugs and Wags.
The Lowman Family
(August 22)
Dear Folks,
Here’s a post from our last full day on the road.
The Quality Suites in Drummondville looks like an old chateau from the outside. This is the fourth time that we have stayed here.
When we got here last night, there had been a mix-up about our room. We have always stayed in the wheelchair accessible suite on the first floor: the Akito room. We made our reservation in January and specified this room. They also have a similar room on the second floor. Someone had put a note on our reservation that said EITHER the first or second floor. We explained that that was not us: we would never willingly choose a room for which we would need to use an elevator: more hassle to get dogs in, no use in case of fire, etc.
The first floor room was taken. So we had to go with the second floor. The manager, Susanne, pictured, said that they felt terrible. So they would move us downstairs today when the first floor room was available. And we happened to be outside in the back when Susanne came out and saw us preparing to bring in our other load. She thought that we were traveling with another person, because I had talked about “we.” She was amazed that it was the Lowman family. So she got a luggage cart (something I can never use) and brought the rest of our things upstairs. She saw the BEYOND LIMITS logo on Miracle, so we got a chance to tell her about our organization and give her a card.
Today, after the people checked out of the first floor room, they cleaned it and then came with a luggage cart to help us move downstairs. We also had an opportunity to suggest to Susanne how they could make the wheelchair accessible rooms more accessible. These are things that a non-wheelchair user might not realize: a lower peephole and lock on the room door; a lower rod in the closet; the microwave on the counter and not in a high alcove; a lower hook on the bathroom door. Susanne “got it” right away. We talked about a few longer term fixes for the bathroom. We explained the need to be able to back next to a toilet. And the shelf in the shower with shampoo and conditioner is too high.
We feel very encouraged by the reception that these suggestions HOT and hope that some can be implemented.
Tomorrow we go home. It has been a wonderful trip–lots to ponder and write about. And lots to do–unpack, laundry, work on Karma, two spa days for Miracle–one at Percy’s and one at Mobility Works.
And LOTS of people to thank for their constant support, care, and concern–including all of you.
Hugs and Wags.
The Lowman Family
PS: And the only place on this whole trip that has given the Girls their own beds! Of course at night, they tuck against Mummy. But otherwise, these comfy beds sure beat a hard floor. 😇
Hugs and Wags.
The Lowman Family
PPS: Susanne also has two Labs–a black and a chocolate.
