Only having one hand provides plenty of opportunities for awkward moments. Here are a couple I’ve recently experienced:
— Not being able to juggle opening an earplugs package while holding a pen and notebook
I was out working on a story about the recent water plant expansion in Bloomington, and while on a tour of the plant, we needed to put ear plugs in before entering a building because of the loud machines. I tried to rip the plastic bag open quickly to get the ear plugs out, but it wasn’t fast enough. I could feel the eyes of my sources staring at me, wanting to offer to help, but luckily I snagged the ear plugs out before I had to decline assistance. It still was not a fun experience.
— Having hair in the drink I’m carrying with my arm
After the accident, I lost all of my hair and haven’t significantly cut it since, so my hair is the longest it has ever been since losing my left hand. I frequently take advantage of my left arm by carrying things with it, including cups, but my hair is so long now that I have to be careful not to let it dip inside the drink.
These last two aren’t really “awkward”, but they’re situations one-handed people find themselves in.
— You roll your ankle and refuse to see a doctor to avoid crutches
Recently rolled my ankle because I’m clumsy, and every time I somewhat hurt my ankle or foot, I ice it and hope for the best. I have no idea how I’d operate crutches with one hand, and I don’t want to find out.
— You don’t buy gloves because it’s a rip off
As much as I’d like to have gloves that aren’t plain and cost $1, I refuse to purchase gloves that won’t both work for my right hand. It just doesn’t make sense to pay for a glove I’d never use. I also feel the same way about manicures… I won’t get them because I believe I should pay half price.
Lindsey Erdody 