Personal Health Issues and Bluebirds

[Dave & Grace]

We have wanted a 'bird for a number of years, and have occasionally come close to a purchase.

But we have seen some coaches for sale with a reason listed of "selling because of health issues". We are not the healthiest of individuals. I've had a heart attack in '87, quintuple bypass in 2000, a defibrillator implanted in 2004 and just finished a 6 week hospital "vacation" with double pneumonia. And just turned 60!

My question to the group: Any idea's about the physical health required to own and maintain a 'bird'? Major things to avoid?

Or should we just hang around the back yard?

[Randy Dupree]

i have listed a few coachs that were being sold due to health.
the health problems included blindness,loss of feeling in feet,etc.
at 60 you should be enjoying the ''golden'' years!
there will be plenty of time to hang out in the backyard!!
its kinda like the Boothill saloon in daytona,their logo is "come on in and have a seat,its better to be here than across the street"
the cemetary is across the street!
Randy

[iamflagman]

Originally Posted by Dave & Grace

We have wanted a 'bird for a number of years, and have occasionally come close to a purchase.

But we have seen some coaches for sale with a reason listed of "selling because of health issues". We are not the healthiest of individuals. I've had a heart attack in '87, quintuple bypass in 2000, a defibrillator implanted in 2004 and just finished a 6 week hospital "vacation" with double pneumonia. And just turned 60!

My question to the group: Any idea's about the physical health required to own and maintain a 'bird'? Major things to avoid?

Or should we just hang around the back yard?

Dave,

I have had similar experiences as you, I spent two years existing on a Kidney machine, before I had a Kidney transplant in 1976, that is contrary to the rumor that Rob Robinson has been telling everybody, that I had a Brain transplant and rejected it, I had five bypass surgery seven years ago, I have terrible hand tremors at times and I just turned 65, plus I'm bald, but I still ride my motorcycle, I don't have any problem getting around in my 'Bird and or working on it, I have learned to just pace myself and do what I can, when I can and I don't really concern myself with what other people may think, plus I'm back racing again after a 20 year hiatus because of too much work but now I'm retired and loving every minute of it.

I'm fortunate enough that I can still enjoy life, just at a slower pace than before at times and a lot of that enjoyment comes from hanging out with my friends that own 'Birds. I would suggest that you come to some rallies to check out in person the lifestyle and talk directly to the owners and get an idea of what to expect. Check out Rallies, Shows, and Organized Events

[Stephen]

John
I would reject Rob's Brain also

[Bill Pape]

Hi Dave,

This is a very positive, spirited group of owners.
I doubt anyone will tell you to stay home. Many do have health problems, and our average age (which I do not know ) is probably quite high in years.

I would suggest that motivation, desire and the excitement of travel are the important criteria for owning any motorhome. And some $$$.

If you read this Forum for awhile, you may decide that owning is really not that difficult, driving a Bird is easier than driving most other vehicles, after 1000 miles you will get the feel for the rig and after 2000 miles you will feel very comfortable. A bird handles very well, goes straight and is not blown around by passing trucks and buses. A long drive is not more physically tiring than driving a car.
The repair and up keep will be within your skills, tools, and physical abilities. Most repairs are the same as your home / house; plumbing, heating, A/C, Electrical, Many of the vehicle repairs are completed with a standard set of tools, wiring and a little understanding of 12 volt electricity. Most of us do not preform heavy work such as engine, drive train or changing tires.
Review the classified section for these forums, review the www.Vintagebirds.com site for history, and a condition checklist. There are a lot of BB's for sale now because of fuel prices and the economy. There is a Bird in every interested persons' budget.
As you are deciding, read the past forum postings and become familiar with Bluebird issues, challenges , fun, excitement and travel experience.
Please ask more questions, These posters are very generous with their time, knowledge and willingness to help others. Another idea is to attend a Rally, this is where the various model years can be seen and an opprotunity to meet many friendly helpful people.

Good luck with your health and decision.

[guysmalley]

Dave
I would think the benefits out weight the negatives having and enjoying the BB lifestyle.
only you know your limitations so it may cost you more to have people do heavy lifting fixes. You know Mr Finn was the first person to have a dog kidney transplant!... it was very successful thank god, the only problem is when he passes a fire hydrant !!

good luck
guysmalley.com
1986 pt40

[djhella]

Dave,
My husband had back surgery in 98, 9 weeks later, he thought that was so neat,he screwed his back up again, he had another back surgery, then guess what, 3 weeks later, he had a heart attack. Actually I think he did all this for attention, but he is doing fine, we love our Bird, Love to travel, and since we are retired, if we are not on the road, he can get away rom me by "Working" on the Bird. We love the Rallies, have made wonderful Bird friends, even John. We are 68 and 71 and hope to continue this life style for at least 20 more years.
We are sponsoring a Vintage Bird Rally in Springfield, IL in July, if you want to see and meet a small flock of Birds, come join us.

Dorothy & Bill Helland
Humboldt, IL
217 254 5010
bill.sibu@yahoo.com
95 BMC 37

[iamflagman]

Originally Posted by djhella

Dave,
My husband had back surgery in 98, 9 weeks later, he thought that was so neat,he screwed his back up again, he had another back surgery, then guess what, 3 weeks later, he had a heart attack. Actually I think he did all this for attention, ................................................ We love the Rallies, have made wonderful Bird friends, even John. .........................
Dorothy & Bill Helland
Humboldt, IL
217 254 5010
bill.sibu@yahoo.com
95 BMC 37

Dorothy,

You are just down right mean through and through...............I guess that's why I like Ya

Poor Bill....Poor, Poor Bill.............

[Stephen]

Hey John
How come you take so much abuse on the forums
inquiring minds want to know

[guysmalley]

Originally Posted by Stephen

Hey John
How come you take so much abuse on the forums
inquiring minds want to know

because we don't like him

buddy
Mr Finns dog
ps I want my kidney back!