I flew to Mayo twice last year and I had to use my oxygen concentrator on the plane. The second time I went alone. Pack light. Take snacks or a meal with you in case of flight delays.

Complimentary airport wheelchair service is a lifesaver. Take advantage of this free service at the airport. Here are some tips I used.

Tell you airline in advance that you need a wheelchair at the airport and help boarding the plane. The agent may ask you if you need the wheelchair just to the gate, or all the way to your seat. I select all the way to my seat. They will put this in your ticket. Request special seating on the plane if available. Airlines have different procedures.

When you arrive at the airport, request a wheelchair as soon as you get inside the airport. You may need to sit and wait, so allow a little extra time. A wheel chair attendant will bring a wheel chair for you, manage your luggage, take you through priority check in, wheelchair security, and help you all the way to the gate. You will bypass all the long lines! Tell the agent if you need to stop at the restroom on the way. They will wait outside for you. So much easier!! Give the wheelchair agent and a little tip if you like.

The agent will leave you at the gate in the wheelchair area waiting to board. While at the gate, pay close attention to any gate changes and flight delays, and you may need to remind gate agents you need help getting to the new gate.

Listen for pre boarding for passengers needing time or assistance. A wheelchair agent can take you down the aisle in a small wheelchair or you can walk. Some flight attendants will not help put luggage in the overhead, but other passengers will.

I am now retired, but I was a healthcare consultant for 15 years and I traveled on planes weekly. Please feel free to contact me by sending a private message if you have any other questions. I have an aortic aneurysm that Mayo is watching. Best of luck to you. Keep us posted on how you are doing.