Carrie .....
Recovery from an AN is not a steady uphill progress ..... we go forward and backward. But, the good news is ..... it is much more forward than backward. And, it is sometimes rapid progress and sometimes very slow progress. Each of us is having a unique recovery. Even at over two years out, I can look back and say "Well, I couldn't do that x months ago." Do not give up! Things will continue to get better.
Re: a cane on the subway ..... I resisted greatly at first about using a cane (gave it up totally months ago now), but in crowds it is better to be safe so used the cane only in those situations for a long time. Even now, in a crowd I get disoriented because I lose my stable gaze fixation. I have learned to instinctively find a wall or something that does not move to keep my focus before I try to walk. I also try to stay to the wall side of a room or lightly hang on to my husband or a friend when in crowds.
Best thoughts.
Clarice
