Sadly, my family knows very little. they know i get sick easily, and that i hurt, but they refuse to admit that anything is wrong. i have had little luck with drs, because they always want to "see what happens," and ignore the current symptoms
actually i am debating getting a wheelchair through 100wheelchair.com. you can get a chair as good as any you would rent, for around $100-$130. This way I can customize my chair, and make it fit me better (cushions, etc).
i have sadly had some problems within the disabled community, because i am not "disabled enough." i can walk, although not far, well, or without pain. my life is limited by my physical health, but since i can stand i am not disabled.
if someone wants to read a really good story about living with chronic illness, check out butyoudontlooksick.com
i've used chairs before, and i managed not to run anyone over... but i agree, some people don't know how to behave around those in chairs.