First of all, congratulations on your accomplishment of riding! That's super. I'm sorry to hear about your son. Had a friend that was not as lucky. About the same injury. Terrible.
I ride as well (pic tells the story). That's my huge goal as well. Just to ride, wind therapy. Much needed. Even on the back would help. Cranked mine up today and went 3 feet.
Today marks 2 months and 1 day. Still open wound but easy bike to upright and I'm not going to push it. I use the handlebars to my advantage for the lift. Fortunately my long legs and the low center of gravity helps with my bike. Plus it's only a Shadow ACE. I dare not try the Wide Glide here. Heck no! Right before my emergency surgery I was scooting everywhere. Now sitting everywhere, at home. Yuck!
My biggest questions were answered with the replies as far as wearing a belt, frequent stops etc. My questions really are; How do you and how often do you stay hydrated? How long after your wound heals from being open? Do you wear extra adhesives if you plan on riding? Those things. I have a cooling vest but as we know those things keep you wet, something I cannot wear now. I live in Alabama and just worried about hydration and the bag flying off. Yikes!
My doctor at rehab rode. Asked him and said that my bag would be my hurdle because it could separate. Something I certainly don't want. I currently wear a two piece Sensura Mio click (has the lock for the two pieces attached to it). I'll do anything just to ride once healed.
You all are such an inspiration for getting me to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Keep on those 25 mile trips and before you know it you'll be up to a long trip. I don't see why adding a few more next time will hurt at all. Just like starting out, adding more and more each time.
Good luck and again thank you for the great post!
Stay blessed and your knees in the breeze,
Jen