This video shows the obvious hypocritical view of President George W. Bush, regarding the use of embryonic stem cells for research. The President has no problem supporting the use of stem cells for in-vitro fertilization, where extra stem cells are just thrown in the trash. Then when he has a chance to help millions by supporting the research of stem cells for cures, he uses his veto.

It’s a shame that stem cell research in the United States has been slowed down by the narrow viewpoint of one individual. If one of his daughters, or close family members sustained a spinal cord injury, I wonder if he’d change his tune.

I’ve flown a few places across the country in my wheelchair. I’ve been lucky my wheelchair has been safe when travelling. Here’s some tips on travel from myself and Access for Disabled Americans. photo credit
1. Fly First Class if you can afford it. Ya right.

2. Book the flight online to have all your tickets and information prepared.

3. Book a non-stop flight if possible.

4. Travel with an attendant if you can. Some airlines are good about helping you into an aisle chair, and some are horrible. Those aisle chairs are small and awkward. I’m 6′3″ and 220lbs. I can’t transfer to one independently. Without the help of my dad, I’d probably be still sitting on a few flights. Be clear with them early that you need assistance if you do. Even then, be prepared for them to not help. That’s my experience. They are often clueless.

5. Travel with gel-cell batteries if you have a power chair. Some airlines will refuse wet-cell batteries.

6. Sit on your wheelchair cushion. I ended up with a pressure sore on a long flight when I was unable to do decent pressure releases. Sitting on your cushion will help.

7. Get tagged at the gate. Tell them that you’d like to be tagged at the gate when you check in.

8. Take all removable parts off your wheelchair. Travel with a manual chair if possible. I saw one poor guy have his electric chair destroyed. Remove anything you can from the electric chair if you must use it.

9. Make sure your wheelchair is loaded on the plane. Obvious but crucial.

10. Report damages immediately.

Bonus tip: Have a fun trip. Good Communication with the airline attendants and other personnel will get you to your destination, and keep your wheelchair safe.