Willow - how good are you with a sewing machine?? You can make a HAB equivalent really easily and I have the DVD you can borrow for tying and positions. I don't have sling experience but I used the HAB to work with my football team from 4 weeks and it doesn't hurt a bit. You can also bend over without the little person falling out (or at least feeling like it). I wear Oscar basically every day - it makes my life manageable. Give me a call if you need to.