DEAR ABBY: I have muscular dystrophy and am beginning to need my wheelchair full time. My friends and family are doing whatever they can to make their homes accessible so I am not left out of activities. They mean everything to me, and I depend on them a great deal.
My wheelchair can be unforgiving when going around doorways, hardwood flooring, etc. It's inevitable that I will damage something in someone's home and I will feel terrible about it. What should I do when this happens? I may not even know I did it. I can't fix every scratch I make or clean every track I leave on the rug. I want to be invited, but I also want to be a good guest. What do you think? -- PLANNING IN ADVANCE, COLUMBUS, OHIO
DEAR PLANNING IN ADVANCE: Because you are wisely planning in advance, this is a conversation you should have with your family and friends now, before the need arises. Explain your concerns and offer to pay for the repair of any damage caused by your wheelchair. I'm sure the offer will be appreciated, whether or not they take you up on it in the event of an accident.