When you get on the bus and if you do not see an empty seat, i would approach a male on the bus and just say something like, excuse me but I have a really bad back and it hurts so bad to stand. Would it be ok if we trade spots so I can sit? I will bet you that this gentleman will gladly give up his seat for you. In my experience, men are still gentlemen and given the opportunity they will gladly help a woman out. I know you are shy but try to allow someone to be in service to you. You will probably brighten up someones day with the chance to help you.
By the way, if you just use your back as a reason you won't have to reveal any more unnecessary detail .
Hope this helps. Good luck!
xxxx

Hi @A MyFibroTeam Member

I was also suggest getting a cane. Get on of the foldable ones that u can keep in your bag. Then if you find that you can't get a seat and have to stand. Take it out and use to support yourself. You may find that once you produce it, someone may offer you a seat. Simply thank them if they do and with the comment jokingly, I have one of those invisible illnesses you hear talked about and have problems standing for long periods and more difficult in a moving vehicle so it's gratefully appreciated and I hope karma pays you back with good fortune.

On the plus side if your on the same bus regular, if you say it loud enuff, people may remember you and offer without having to produce the cane again 😀😀

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A MyFibro...

I don't take buses as I drive but not far. I would suggest a buddy system. Like a friend or someone that can help you get around. Maybe a scooter that is motorized with a basket. Or wheelchair motorized switch that is easy to use. Maybe can have a bus that picks up handicapped pick you up in wheelchair accessible van to drop you off on campus and pick you up for ride back home. I am only saying this because you would have to travel in all kinds of weather and all day around a large campus can be exhausting and painful. Not to mention the sitting in classes and studying that goes with it. You need as much help as you can get. I hope you will think about how things are going to work out for you. Please don't be afraid to ask the doctor for a disability card or even ask at the college for the help you need to succeed. You can't let the illness beat you. Wishing you the best in the new year with your studies and getting around the campus.

My daughter who is 43 goes to school at CU and has had fibromyalgia for several years. She had to get special crutches just to be able to get across the large campus to her classes. It was just to hard on her legs. She says She feels like a transfor when She uses them. The plus side was that now she had no trouble on the bus getting a seat because her illness was now visable. However people are often confused when they see her walking without her crutches.

The fold up and sounds like a great idea for your circumstances. I hope you don't have any problems getting around but if you do have issues you may want to look into using crutches.

Use a cane. It makes your condition visible. You will be surprised how many people will give you a seat, open door for you or ask if you need help. My friend told me that, since then I use a cane. It says I've got a problem standing, which is true. I have a purple and red canes with flowers. If you are too prideful, I'd day swallow it. Your health comes first. Good luck.