Only thing I can think of is a machine with push button alternative. My Brother machine has it and I love it. You sound like someone who WILL find a solution, you GO izzybelle!!!

What a gal! I am so proud there are women like you in this world that are so strong in the face of adversity...and what a wonderful group of creative people ready to jump in to support your effort...the gratitude I feel at being a part of such caring people brings tears to my eyes.

If you don't want to change machines I can only agree with the chin idea many have suggested...can think of several ways of adapting it but have to work them out in my mind...perhaps a type of shoulder harness with a Velcro Y strap at the neck attached to keep it in place.

You go girl! You're my hero...

This is a great little machine and you can buy it in expensively on Amazon. I have had mine several years now and cart it all over as it is light and easy for me to carry to classes etc. I know some who have had theirs for over 5 years. It has a variety of stitches as well and is a computer machine. I love mine.

Brother 6000 I is the machine and sells on Amazon.

So sorry you have to deal with your MS, I know it can be difficult as I have friends and relatives with MS. I would recommend contacting your dealer or going online to see if you can get a knee control for your machine. My Mom had one and it was pretty handy.

It is the wide harp machine you aren't wanting to replace...right? They are more expensive but I would imagine much easier trying to quilt the whole thing where it is a constant wrestling match.

Whoa...I tried the chin theory and it hurts like H@#. Did you find it so? I tried the under the arm and was surprised at the way it felt...much better..but would need to make a Velcro strap to hold it on so you wouldn't be constantly placing it. Mmmm what about the underarm gun holsters the detectives wear...LOL

some people with problems like yours use mouth controls I don't know if you could get one adapted to use your machine. My mother was diagnosed with MS when I was 3 months old and she ran a boarding house for many years till she retired at 65 years, she was one of the fortunate ones as she was in remision for most of her life we all tried very hard not to cause her stress as that would cause her to relapse and each time she relapsed she would end up with more dissability than before, she is now 97 and in a nursing home, my DH and I looked after her for 8 years after dad died and only put her into the nursing home after the house burnt down, I do wish you the best I don't physically know what you are going thru but after looking after mum for 8 years gives me some insite on things. I hope you find a solution so you can continue to quilt. my mum refused to give up to.

See about getting a machine with a stop/start button. Seems like it would give you the most control for the least effort/physical output.

This may be a long shot but who maintains your machine? Maybe you can talk to the repairman and ask him if he has any suggestions. They know the workings of the foot petal and may be able to get rid of the outer casing of the foot petal and place it in something more adaptable for your needs.