What is your favorite pizza (restaurant, crust style, toppings, etc..)?

My wife is an amputee that uses a wheel chair. We just finished a 7 day cruise in Carnival Jubilee. We often had to wait four or five elevator cycles to be able to enter an elevator before it was filled with other people that had just walked up and had not waited at all. Several times a day someone would block the elevator and hold the door until I could load her on then let others enter. Random acts of kindness were always appreciated.

My father has breathing problems. We found out he has COPD. We rented a scooter for him last Christmas on the Horizon. He can't walk far without becoming out of breath. People need to respect persons with disabilities. Its not always visible.

Good timing for discussing scooters- it’s Disability Awareness Month! Many folks have invisible disabilities. You can’t tell by looking at me that I can only walk very short distances. There are many invisible disabilities that impact mobility- the most well known: cancer and cancer treatment, MS, ME, Cerebral Palsy, arthritis, muscular Dystrophy, and so many more. My disability is more visible when I’m in my wheelchair, but my personal and private medical info shouldn’t need to be on display to prove I’m worthy of consideration.

I saw a really cool tee shirt the other day. On the left front it said simply, “be nice”, on the back it said, “the people you meet are fighting a battle you know nothing about”. ❤

I underwent Open Heart surgery back at the end of March. The general anesthesia uses left my legs weak and my balance was way off. When we sailed aboard Celwbrity Eclipse my wife and several of my friends suggested I rent a scooter to make getting around the ship easier. Having a scooter was a Godsend. My disability wasn't evident on first sight, but no one questioned my need. You can't always see the issue.

Tony - I'm a RN and was a Director of a Blood Bank for over 10 years. I taught my staff on how to draw blood. Suggestions - drinks lots of water the morning of your blood draw/sample and ask the phlebotomist (person taking your blood) to use a butterfly needle or a 22 gauge and go into your hand if you have small veins in your anticubital (area in the crevice of your arm). They should have no problem getting blood. On the scooter issue. You can't demand people to show prove of disability. That would be a violation of the Peoples With Disabilities Act. My hubby and I both purchased scooters 4 years ago for our cruises. He has severe los back pain and I'm not able to walk long distances due to arthritis in both knees. We have never had any issues on any Royal Caribbean ship. We are loyal Royals. Keep cruising 🛳️❤️🍹

If people are saying that others using mobility aids are faking it to be "lazy," they have obviously never had to use a mobility aid and deal with all the challenges that presents.

We recently cruised with a friend who requires a scooter and I can tell you she was more inconvienced by it than others were around her. It was such a hassle dealing with it, after the cruise she decided she was done cruising - it's a "younger persons game" to quote her. Then there are times like when my dog raced me to the bottom of the stairs, I tripped over her, broke a bone in my foot, the day before our departure. Ended up with one of those knee scooters. OUCH, that was a tremendous pain (in more ways than one) - So as annoying as these are to others, when you need mobility help, it's not fun, it's not easy and sometimes it's downright embarrassing. Let's give'em a break.

Scooters. Personally, I have a movement disorder and I fall often. On the outside I look perfectly fine. These complaints have zero merit.

To people complaining about scooter users. They aren't even that convenient on a cruise ship, so very few, if any, people would use them unless they needed them.

When you said “hey Siri” my husband’s phone answered! LOL!

It is very unlikely someone is going to fool the system by lugging a scooter all the way to a cruise ship. What a hassle for them. People need to get over themselves and their conspiracy theories.

I spend $300+ for 7 days and over $400 for 2 weeks and somehow people think we fake it? I am tired of people passing judgement.

Tony, I have been following you for about a year now, I am a 100% disabled veteran, and I use a small scooter that folds up and takes up very little space. I can walk and stand for a period of time but cannot walk for long distance. Last year we took a cruise with Regent and they were great helping me get on and off the ship, even getting on and off the tender. Around the ship, I walked, using a cain , the crew and passengers were great. Around the time that we traveled for the cruise, there were reports and concerns with the airlines, the people were taking advantage of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA), so I went out to the VA website ad printed the condition letter stating my level of disability and with the percentage of each physical disability listed. No body asked for it, however I wanted to be prepared just in case. By the way, I enjoy your show, your information, but most of all your sense of humor. David

I rent a scooter at a cost of 750 US dollars for 20 days. Not sure one would spend the money if not required.

I was on board the enchanted princess this past Friday during the big pizza party at World record. You had to eat two slices of pizza in 30 minutes. They started at 4 PM Eastern time. All of the ships in the fleet participated. Even the ships in Australia, which should’ve been 2 AM local time. The captain of the enchanted Princess was also helping handing out the pizza. They even brought pizza to the kids club so they could participate.

I can walk, just not long distances...so for the last several cruises I have used a scooter. I go at the pace everybody is walking...no speeding. But people "don't see" the scooter and will cut in front of me. At elevators, even if we are the first ones there, people will push in front of us to get on first. We solve that problem by going the opposite direction of everyone else and get on pretty fast. And then stop and pick up the people still waiting. At shows, I stay in the scooter and occupy the handicap space. People who come in late have no problem standing in front of the scooter since there's at least a foot of space between the scooter and the rail. And boy do I get attitude when I ask them to move.

I've never cruised and I watch this channel just to get some giggles from that nut, Tony. I'm 74 and can't stand or walk more than just a bit without serious pain. After seeing how FAR you have to walk in most ports to get on/off the ship, the ONLY way I could ever take a cruise is with a scooter. The ADA prohibits companies from requiring proof of disability, so if any of these cruise companies legal staff tries requiring proof of disability, they will be slapped silly by the ADA.

We cruised to Alaska last August, my husband has mobility issues. We rented a scooter. He managed not using it on the ship but boy was it a godsend at ports where a lot of walking was required. Made the trip so much more enjoyable for us.

I was part of the pizza event. We just came from the enchanted princess this past Saturday. The pizza party was on Friday. I even took a picture with the captain serving me pizza. It was awesome.

I definitely agree with you Tony. If Carnival asked for documentation regarding disabilities, that might result in a lawsuit as far as discrimination.

As someone who gets her blood drawn every 3 - 4 months from my endocrinologist, I start drinking water the day before and the morning. It's very helpful even though that last time I had to have a needle in me for a stress test she put it in the top of my hand. As far as your deconstructed tool kit (which is ingenious) my nail file I take on cruises is 3 times longer and I never have that taken away, so I think your good. Thanks for sharing!

If someone thinks a scooter user is faking, they clearly don’t understand what a pain in the butt they are to use and how much easier it would be to just walk. In my experience, people who need mobility aids are hesitant to use them, pushing it far beyond where they physically should. We took our daughter on her first cruise this year. She has an invisible disability but 99.9% of the time refuses to use mobility aids. We convinced her to rent a wheelchair on the cruise in the hopes that it would help negate some of the issues we knew she would face while sailing. It made things SO much more complicated and difficult, but it helped her enjoy at least some of the trip before her condition took her down and kept her bedridden the rest of the time. She is 23 and “looks fine”. I’m sure there were plenty of people giving her the side eye, having no idea the challenge that is her life and the measures she has to take just to try to eek out some sort of normality that people take for granted. If you find yourself in a position to assume that scooter people are just lazy or milking some sort of system (you think scooters are free or that they get special accommodation or benefit??), consider yourself fortunate and maybe try to have a smidge of compassion for those who are just trying to live and enjoy life and their vacation the same as you

I am on a scooter and will willingly show you my handicapped parking permit or provide a note from my MD. I do not expect my own elevator as I wish to remain and be regarded as normal as possible. I wait in line just like everyone else. I put my scooter in my room and keep it out of the way while dining, shows or on deck. Just so everyone knows, I am attaching my handicap parking permit to the scooter while on the cruise. Not for any special privilege, just removing any doubt as to my need.

I have the same issue since I had a thyroidectomy. I drink lots of water everyday, but I make sure to drink at least a bottle of water prior to arriving at the "vampire's" office.

I think that Carnival made the right decision. They probably wouldn't want to get in the middle of determine who needs one.

I don't think these folks have ever tried to rely on a scooter. I had to use them for a while and it absolutely sucked. You're lower, which is especially annoying when you're shopping, and they're awkward. And when the battery dies on you, it's seriously a problem. There are probably very few people who are using them that don't truly need them.

I’m close to needing a scooter. I’m not exactly sure what system it is that people are supposedly gaming by using a scooter. The only perk I see is mobility.

As I said before, I have balance and walking issues. I can stand, and I can walk, but not well or far. I can't think of anyone "playing the system." Using a scooter is wheelchair on a ship. It is really inconvenient to have to use it because of just opening doors even! Often to use the public restroom I have to leave the scooter in the hall, hope no one steals anything, or take everything with me, and then hope I don't lose my balance just because I have to pee! Would you able bodied folks like to have to deal with that? I would much rather be able to take the stairs than deal with the elevator problems.

Nurse here- yes to water, place a warm compress on the arm where the blood draw was successful last time. It’s a gamble for me to say to just put the warm compress on the back of your hand, because sometimes we look at the antecubital area of the arm for a vein. What works for me to have a vein pop up, about 3/4 of the time with “hard sticks”, is placing two tourniquets, spaced a few inches away from each other. While you wait in the waiting room with your warm compress on, can you squeeze a squishy stress ball to help out the veins to be visible? And finally- butterfly needle!

Tony this is why we love you! Great intro and thanks for acknowledging the events of the last few days in a very professional way! ❤

Someone's feelings of inconvenience and "unfairness" are not more important than someone else's inability to move freely.

I get a lot of "judgmental" looks when I have to use wheelchair access on and off the ships, but not on the ship. I can not do ramps because of a lot of metal and neuropathy in my leg. I spent a year in a wheelchair after my surgeries and had to use a scooter on the ship. People can be very kind, and some very rude. I am grateful to have been able to sail and use the scooter when it was needed for sure. Being able to walk on a flat surface is a blessing for sure.

Blood draw tip: I am also a gentleman of size and blood draws are never easy. I usually suggest they use a smaller “butterfly” and draw from the back of my hand. Works every time.

People need to be careful judging others. If you look at my husband, you probably would not think he has any mobility issues, but he suffers from neuropathy. He can walk short distances but standing a long time or walking long distances results in severe pain that can last for days afterward. We don't take a scooter on the cruise ship, but we do use wheelchairs sometimes so he can enjoy life too, and I often have him sit on an available bench while I stand. Some criticize him for that, but I don't have the issues he does. You can't stop people who want to game the system, and inconveniencing legitimate users of scooters .because those gamers upset you isn't a good option.

I can’t cruise without a scooter , I can walk but I can’t breathe due to severe asthma

Very well said regarding news in our country. Thank you Tony!

ADA and HIPPA will prevent Carnival or any cruise line from requiring proof. Additionally. I'd like to see a crackdown on the "assist" pets on board. We've all seen at least one, and KNEW their only purpose "little muffy" had was to be included in the family vacay!

Hey Tony! Good luck with your bloodwork tomorrow! I have issues giving blood as well however I found in the past I fully hydrate the day before as well as the morning of before I go, and I’ve been successful doing that. Hopefully it works! And thanks for always bringing a smile to my face every day! 😊

Tony, I have a problem with blood being drawn, too. My veins either move or shift . The best thing to do is drink a lot of water 6 hours before and when you see the nurse have them, put a warm towel on your arm 5 minutes before and you should have no problem.

I was in the navy. I spent three and a half years living on a ship.

As an American with a disabled sister I know for a fact that asking for proof of a disability is against the law here in the US. Chec out Americans with Disabilities Act.

After several foot surgeries I had a handicap placard while in college. I had been a dancer but one misstep and I’d be back on crutches or wheelchair. People kept turning me in for abusing the placard. People who actually talked to me I could explain and show my scars. They’d back off. But I certainly didn’t always look “crippled” but man m, it was wonderful to have it when I needed it. You’re going to Utopia! I’ve barely heard that. 😆Safe travels.

I have a temporary handicap placard. On my last cruise, I took a cane. It was very hard to get around, and I certain it the person I cruised with would have appreciated me using a scooter. I am considering using one on my next cruise.

I’m so grateful that you asked this community about your blood draw. I have relatively low blood pressure and have been poked WAY too many times. Several times having an “expert” brought in. I’m RH negative so really want to donate! I may be able to muster up the courage now that I’ve gotten some good suggestions

scooters are a pain in the butt, to deal with.. why would you want to fool with it if not needed?

I’m 75 & have COPD & asthma. I cruise solo. I have found that using a walker & keeping a steady pace helps me breathe easier &, in turn, allows me to cover twice the walking distance that I can without a walker. Ignoring problems I have getting on an elevator while cruising …. Using a walker is a big pain in my backside. Cabin doors are impossible to open & push a walker thru, there are the few fellow cruisers that look at you with disgust, it’s hard to keep my place in line at a bar to get a drink cuz people crowd me like I’m invisible, etc. etc. BELIEVE ME WHEN I SAY it’s not easy to use a mobility aid on a cruise ship. I am not faking it & in many cases it’s more like work!! If I have troubles using a walker, I can’t even imagine what other folks go thru with their scooters or wheelchairs! That being said, I will also use this moment to say thank you so very much to those few angels who stand at crowded elevators and tell any handicapped person … no … you go first.

Thank you Tony. Appreciate all you do bringing us the cruise news and giving us your views.

I use a scooter on board. Was able to use in Cozumel port. All other excursions had to walk. Was difficult. I look fairly healthy but have COPD and had covid twice in 2020 and again in 2021 and 2022. My lungs are screwed. I get short of breath walking 50 yards. Folks were pretty good. I was Very patient though and generally took me about 10 min longer. Not because people were rude but elevators were already crowded with folks and a scooter wouldn't fit. So I would pass 3 or 4 before I got on. It is what it is. Either ride and be patient or walk and be short of breath.

I have stage 4 breast cancer. I have a walker and cane which I use depending on how far I am walking. I have thought about a scooter but resist it. I don’t think people fake a disability, I would much prefer being healthy.

I have MS most days I can walk short distances but not always long distances. I was afraid to bring a wheelchair or scooter on my recent Japan cruise and we did have to cut some of our sightseeing and had to adjust plans. I hate that looking fairly young means so many people will assume "fake" vs different needs.

Ok so as a person who was disabled at the age of 35 my life is difficult enough without “Karen’s” demanding PROOF of my disability. You nailed it disability shows up in different ways. On a good day I can do a fair bit and can be self mobile on a bad day I cannot walk more than a few steps. In a strange environment such as a cruise it is impossible for me to know when I will need mobility assistance and it is smart for me to lean on the safe side and use mobility aids frequently rather than get stuck a long distance from where I need to go and be unable to move without medical help. Scammers will scam EVERY system in place. I believe they are fewer rather than majority and in actual fact many disabled folks such as myself are more likely to turn down assistance as opposed to abuse what is out there. Our society has this strange relationship with disability and what it means to be strong and independent. Int truth I dont think scammers are a huge issue here. The elevator issue…rude people will continue to be rude and kind people will continue to be kind and allow me on the elevator. One thing disability has taught me is patience. Lol

Oh, and ask if they can use the vein finder, which they very well MAY have. It's a little device they put over your arm that is like a mini x-ray that SHOWS the veins so they know the EXACT location. Typically used for people who are hard to draw blood from, but they don't volunteer it often. If you ask they may have one and just it on you to make it easier on you.

I too have had shy veins - especially once I started taking blood pressure medicine. I've found that drinking enough water the day before to be "properly hydrated" and then drinking a huge (24 oz) cup of water the morning before my blood draw has dramatically decreased the number of pokes (most of the time it's first attempt these days).

I am glad Carnival isn't trying to be like Disney. When I cruised in May, on the Mardi Gras, trust me, it was a HUGE inconvenience for myself and our party. At reentering at a port, after 2 of us on scooters sat and had people jump in front of us, some kind cruisers, spoke up and got us on elevators. I am not wanting any perks or privileges, but others letting us have a turn would be considerate.

On a recent cruise, we sat at dinner with a couple where the husband was in a wheelchair. The told us that they may not cruise much anymore because there were so many scooters that they are not able to get a cabin for wheelchairs because they are all booked

yes drink plenty of water the day before and the day of it can help. I have the same problem if I don't drink water before hand.

Drink lots of water in the morning and have lab tech put a warm towel on your arm. I have same issues. I have them draw from back of hand using a butterfly needle. It’s slower to draw but they hit vein every time.

I'm a scooter user due to arthritis in my hips. I can walk but not for any semblance of a long distance. Even walking down the hallways to the dining room is a problem. I love to cruise but eliminating scooters will eliminate my ability to cruise.

I have a small multi tool with a blade thats been on may cruises. It’s usually in my backpack and it’s never been questioned. The blade is only about 2 inches long. It’s come in handy many times to repair things.

I would just ask that everyone remembers that invisible disabilities are a thing and not to judge based on how a person looks. A healthy fit looking middle aged lady could have a condition that causes dizzy spells and there are conditions with flare-ups where a person’s ability and mobility can vary day to day.

I am in a wheelchair full time. On some cruises I rent a scooter. I am always shocked at the number of scooters parked at the front of the restaurants at dinner. I see people drive up, easily get off the scooter and walk to their table. Also at the theater, I always park at the back to stay in my wheelchair; but I see people drive in and walk down the stairs to find a seat. I am so jealous that they can do that. Believe me, it’s not fun being in a wheelchair. But it’s better than staying at home in bed. There are issues that most people don’t think about like not being able to get down the hall to my cabin when the stewards have their carts out. I have to plan my day around that. I get lucky sometimes and am able to get an accessible cabin right off of the elevators, but on many ships they are down the hall. I also have difficulty getting on elevators. I don’t expect privileges but after waiting my turn, often able-bodied people come up and jump in front of me. It gets very frustrating. I also resent people leaning against my wheelchair and holding on to it in elevators. Sheesh! Please keep your hands to yourself! I’m immune compromised and don’t want your germs on my chair. I avoid elevators at peak times, but sometimes I have to use them during busy times. But please folks….. wait your turn. Sometimes I’ll wait for 5 or 6 elevators that are too full for me to get on while others fill in the space (which is okay), but when one that has space finally comes and people who came much later get on, I feel like crying. Sometimes people are very helpful, and I am so grateful for that. Dedicating an elevator to scooters and wheelchairs won’t solve the problem because only one or two would fit on them at a time. And the programmable elevators are a joke. For instance, we’ll program one for deck 7 and it tells us to take Car A. The next 15 people that come up request multiple decks like 7, 10, 12; and it tells everyone to take Car A. There is no way all of us will fit on that one elevator and many times it’s too full when it comes, so we start the process all over again. Ugh! Finally people complain about scooters going too fast. I go quite slowly being super careful. Yet many times I have had people walk into me because they weren’t watching where they were going, even when I have stopped and said to watch out because I had no where to go to avoid them running into me. One guy yelled at me and told me to watch where I was going. Say what? I stopped because he was coming right at me and I had nowhere to go, but he was too busy talking to his companions to watch where HE was going. And I get it. Some handicapped people do act entitled and “drive” dangerously. There is no easy answer. If we could all just be a little more patient and respectful towards each other, things would be better for everyone.

I use a scooter primarily to get on and off the ship. I can’t walk long distances but usually have a cabin in the center and can manage most of what I want once on the ship. Scooters make it easy to get around but make so many things more difficult like browsing shops, navigating a buffet or a casino, doing excursions etc. I gladly leave it in the cabin whenever I can. I don’t think people use them by choice, I know I don’t.

I just recently had the small Swiss army confiscated which basically has the same tools as your wallet knife. Surprised they havent yanked it from you yet. Keep up the good work!!

Last cruise I brought a cane as it helps when walking long distances. I can’t imagine someone using a mobility device that didn’t really need it. Those with mobility issues would much prefer the health and ability to walk without assistance. If one without a disability tries to game the system and use a scooter when it is truly not needed….just be aware that you should be careful what you wish for…. I would not do a 3 day cruise as it seems way too short for me… especially since it takes a day of travel to get to a cruise port. I like to be on a ship for several days with multiple sea days.

I need a scooter if I am walking very far because I need surgery on both knees. I don't think it's anyone business why or if you need a scooter.

Hi Tony . It’s Lisa we meet on the panamal cruise , I am a chemo nurse , drink lots of water hours before , no coffee Or caffeine that morning and get them to use your hand vein , it’s hurts more but they can do it in one pick

Like on an airplane, if the blade is longer than 2.4" it will be confiscated, a standard leatherman is too large at around 3".

These scooter debates have me intimidated to even go cruise next year for my first one. Yes, I’m overweight, yes I’ve lost 151lbs and still going, and yes I have autoimmune disease triggered by Covid along with asthma and multiple other issues after Covid. I used my first scooter on vacation in DC and it was awful. My knees cramped up for a couple of hours made me hurt worse than ever but we wouldn’t have been able to do most of what we did if I didn’t have it. So, seeing this all the time, I feel like my cruise is going to be detrimental to my mental health as no one knows our stories and why we need them.

I have a permanent handicap place card in the vehicle and the approval of the doctor for the handicap plate. I would show this if needed.

Leatherman is a great tool for any trip. I can understand the blade restrictions. I’ve had to do minor repairs on luggage, coat zippers watch bands etc. I was able to get a mini-Leatherman by security a couple of times and have had it confiscated many times. It has a blade about an inch long. For me it’s a valuable tool. I do understand their rules and don’t object when they take it.

To make IV access easier for a larger person: use 2 tourniquets, one about 4 inches above the other. Or, use a blood pressure cuff, pumped up just to the point where a pulse can still be felt. Make sure you aren't cold.

I am a fan of sea days, the extra day at Coco Cay would be unwanted for me

On the disability issue, lots of seniors have arthritis. Some days are ok and some days are bad. The ADA prohibits demands to prove disability.

I met a guy on the carnival valor who was whittling with his swiss army knife in the Atrium. It was not the small cheap one. That one was about $75 new on Amazon with all of the tools called the champ. I didn't want to barley bring my cheap one. I also have one with a finger nail clipper I keep on my key chain.

I was on a Carnival cruise a few years ago. There was an older gentleman who used a mobility scooter for the whole cruise. At the end of cruise party he got on the dance floor and did moves that would make Michael Jackson jealous. Some one asked him why he was using a scooter and his reply was, " The cruise line offered it to me so I took advantage of it."

Unfortunately I am a scooter user. I had six strokes 11 years ago. I have taken about 7 cruises since the stroke. I recently took a flight for a cruise and about 6 middle aged women were in wheelchairs awaiting the plane. They were getting up to casually walk to the bathroom or food kiosks without difficulty and laughing about having the wheelchair. I think that there should be some checks as to why they require mobility assistance. They may ruin this for those needing a scooter or mobility assistance.

Tony- wish Iistened yesterday about labs- I’m a former phlebotomist ( lab blood tech) and RN- drink lots of water, even day of - fasting for some labs such as blood sugar & cholesterol, still drink water, hot compresses on your veins! Ask for a seasoned tech and have them use a butterfly needle- it’s less painful. Good luck! 🤗

Tony I've read that lifting dumbells lifts the veins closer to the skin. The same exercise before the blood draw helps. Drink plenty of water an hour before. Finally a hack I read in multiple places. Place a warm compress on the draw area right before.

Withholding services unless confidential medical information is presented in a non medical environment, i.e. Dr. office or ER is contrary to the The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Don't try it, don't judge and don't ask. It's none of your business.

I see the issue with mobility scooter's. Last carnival cruise i was on at one point as i was walking through no less than 30 scooters in the way, ended up blocking everyone, and no one could get through.

Unfortunately, my extended family was a perpetrator of this faking for decades, starting in Disney World. Their older, but not disabled mom was plopped into a wheelchair on every trip, cruises etc. the joke was, “time to get to the head of the line”! They laughted at those who didn’t scam like this. The sad part is when she did need a wheelchair, they no longer took her on trips because she was too much to handle. Fakers abound. Needs to be stopped. Airlines are studying this too….on a recent flight 17 wheelchair requested boardings, only 4 disembarking.

I have a family member who fake needing a scooter. Show proof or walk. You need proof to park in a handicap spot. No Swiss army knives. Ther is nothing for a person on vacation to repair.

Almost 50 years of experience with Phlebotomy here. Drink lots of fluids at least 4 hours before having blood drawn. The night before is great too.

Tony you need to drink a lot of fluids and lots of water AM of your test. Get up earlier so you can tank up! Also, wear a long sleeve shirt or sweater to keep your arms warm. This will help your veins to come to the surface. Labs are cold. Good luck 😊 ❤your show on cruuuising!👏👏

I’ve had issues with blood draw and IV's. I’ve been told to hydrate like crazy the day before and most of the morning if you’re appointment it is in the afternoon. It does work.

I was on the Iceland Greenland cruise with you. Princess was really helpful with me and my scooter. Normally I use a wheelchair but Iceland Air broke it on the way to London. Carnival isn't so handicap friendly.

I am using a roller to walk due to extreme back pain. I can only walk limited areas on the roller. I am in no pain when I sit, but I can't stand for a minute without horrible pain. The pressure walking is prohibitive. Lucky to have a pooI! I was a life long cruiser and my husband and I miss it so much. I would not mind providing a doctor's note. Thanks for bringing this issue up. I found drinking water prior to blood draw and they use my hand really works.

I'm a scooter user. Carnival has you fill out a disability form if you require assistance to embark/disembark. I seems if you use a scoot, you would need that. Cunard, it's mandatory you book an accessible cabin if you use a scoot. I book accessible on Carnival to insure the scoot can get in the cabin. Maybe they should go the route of their sister cruise line, and require an accessible cabin for scooter use. As for scooter-folks demanding their own elevator... get over yourselves! Yes, it does suck sometimes, granted. Give yourself extra time to get where you're going if you need to use the elevator. 99% of folks are VERY accommodating to folks in scoots/wheelchairs when it comes to elevators. I've found the ones who aren't are also tools to ambulatory passengers too.

Tony, I have a clear set like your red one, but mine was called a lady toolkit! Instead of a blade, mine has a file. I travel with it. It does come in handy.

Thanks for all your infotainment! Blood draw tip: in addition to drinking 3 quarts of water 2 hrs before, I walk vigorously, in place or around the parking lot, and swing my arms up and down right up until the moment I am in the chair…this seems to make my veins more prominent, and blood flows faster into the tube. Good Luck!

Love you, Tony!! So many vloggers brag,brag, brag about their perks- it’s not about them!! We appreciate your information & wit!! 🤗

I also have trouble finding a good vein. Have the phlebotomist use a blood pressure cuff to elevate the veins. It helped me tremendously! Good luck. I know that anxious feeling

The elevator issue is real. I use a rollater and trying to get an elevator is horrible.

Dr. is looking into my situation; I have a hard time "standing" in one position for a long time, if I can move at least a little I can suffle around for quite a long time. Dr. is still evaluating my situating my circumstance

My son in 2005 put a couple of bricks on a Lego tower being build at Legoland California which beat the world record at the time. Legoland had or has the best customer service. I joined the Lego club because it included a free admission for my son but would take 4 to 6 weeks to start ( I didn’t read the fine print) I called them and told them we were flying in 3 days from NC and of course wouldn’t get the tickets in time. They FedEx the tickets to me. My son is 28 now and still loves Lego’s.

Drinking extra water the day before and the morning of will definitely help most! If consumption of water is difficult, which I have had many patients tell me they hate water,then a large bottle one hour before will suffice. I am a nurse who attempts vein Access for blood work and IV medications throughout my 30 years of nursing and I’ve seen this work well if the reason for the difficulty of accessing a vein is due to dehydration. Some folks just have deeper veins and that makes it hard to find them no matter how hydrated they are.

Yup. I’m a licensed vampire in CA. Drink lots of water all the time. When I’m hydrated I just feel better. It truly is easier to find a vein when my patient is hydrated. I also recommend letting the vampire know that you’ve been told you’re a “hard stick”.

As is the norm Tony, your talent for acknowledging and covering ALL the news and yet staying your lane, the lane that your listeners come for is second to none. I simply want you to know that I appreciate you and your sensitivity. My Goddaughter lives in Cocoa Beach…..I love it there and a great idea to show it. Her husband is a “rocket scientist “ at Canaveral……another interesting place to showcase when you have time. Now speaking as a nurse that started all the IV’s in the OR at a very large hospital……keep drinking water, while you are waiting for them to draw have your hand hanging down and keep your arm as warm as possible. Also advocate for yourself. Tell the tech up front that others have had a terrible time finding a vein. They should appreciate the heads up so they can also use all the tricks in their box to make it easier for both of you. My veins used to be easy to find and not so much anymore so I can relate. Good luck!