Forum Discussion

nikki2rv's avatar
nikki2rv
Explorer
May 19, 2016

f/t living with health issues

Hi, new here and I have a question? My husband has a device in his chest called an LVAD (left ventricular assist device), this is an electronic pump (powered by a base unit and battery's for mobility) it's attached to his left ventricular of his heart, it directs the blood to his aorta. He is doing well with this device & is on the heart transplant list but at this time a heart transplant is not totally necessary. He is 55 yrs old and I am 47. We are empty nester's and our house is way to much and to big for us. I am looking into full timing in a Class A motorhome. I was wondering if anyone knows of or has one of these devices and lives the F/T lifestyle? I know there will be challenges and such but I think we can do it, he is otherwise very healthy. Thanks Nicole
  • doxiemom11's avatar
    doxiemom11
    Explorer II
    May 19, 2016
    What would be your plan if they call and have a heart for him and he needs to be at XX hospital within an hour?
  • Corky12's avatar
    Corky12
    Explorer
    May 19, 2016
    RV living is not necessarily easier or less expensive than living in a sticks and bricks home. There is a lot of maintenance necessary to keep an RV in good condition. Are either of you able to do the work yourselves? Do you plan to travel or to stay in one area? Are you both able to drive/tow an RV? What would be your plan be should his health deteriorate and he needs a transplant? There are hundreds of questions like these that need to be answered before you decide if it is a good idea. Keep reading this forum and asking questions. Good luck.
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    May 19, 2016
    People do F/T with various disabilities. Consider medical treatment while on the road and how much additional power the device will need if you choose to boondock.

    Consider buying a used smaller unit and keep the house for a year and see if that works for you. IF not then OK, otherwise you'll know a lot going forward, maybe even what you want in a rig...

    You can certainly search for and get a lot of F/T input. Some considerations are state residence, medical, state and local taxes, license for rig and you, insurance, voting and many other items.
  • crasster's avatar
    crasster
    Explorer II
    May 19, 2016
    That is definitely a question between you and your doctor(s).

About RV Newbies

4,026 PostsLatest Activity: Jun 15, 2017