I am sorry but can certainly understand. I have had a time after back surgey where using assistive devices were nesseary.. wheelchair, walker, wheelie cart and cane. post op with a new RA diagnosis has made a cane and disabilty placard a nessesity. It sucks and it almost seems like i am not tough enough to cope. The mental gymnastics are the worst, because i ask myself what would i say to someone else? I would say do what is best for you, hold your head up high and use the chair like a boss.... hugs

I hope u adapt soon. I still have trouble using hanicap parking andthe moto cart at wolly world.

Thanks Jean! It is indeed a manual, and thank you for sharing your experience.

You are welcome! Hope you enjoy your new ride!

Is it a manual or power wheelchair?
I have been using a wheelchair at work and for field trips since about 2000, both manual and power chairs . 5 years ago I was forced to start using one in my own house after the most horrible flare in my life that took quite a while to tame down.
I've had RA for 35 years and it did a lot of damage within the first few years that eventually caused me to have to use a wheelchair so i could move around better. Diet and nutrition slowed the aggressive beast down. I was told in 1988 that by 1990 Id be unable to do anything for myself. They were wrong!

One thing you will find is that you can get around better and actually accomplish more things. Too many times in the past I let pride get in my way and refused to use a wheelchair when it would have saved me pain and agony. I gritted my teeth and kept going--that caused more damage.
Make sure you have enough room to maneuver in your home and wherever you go. Space is very important to turn around and not run into things. Start slow, Take a tour--experiment with your new chariot--have fun with it! It is actually allowing you to have some independence!
Even though you have a wheelchair, please still exercise as much as possible within your range of motion. Some exercises can be done lying on the bed or from your chair. If you can still do some weight bearing ones, that would be awesome!
Hope that helps! it's not a shame to use a wheelchair. It becomes like an extension of you! AT school I have kids who love to pretend they are pushing my power chair or escorting me--they think it's neat!
Love and hugs!