I learned on an Ariette, to later purchase two LA handmade. There is a huge difference in terms of the energy and strengh to operate an Ariette vs. a good handmade. The handmade sure won't make you a better player, but playing will definitely be much easier. Lighter spring system, faster button response combined to air tight bellows do make a huge difference. If you'd like an event lighter and faster response, you could consider a hand Quebec-made. Some that I've tried can almost play by themselves
You could get one for about $2,000 Canadian dollar)from one fellow I know. Bottom line: If you really enjoy playing, get a good box (Louisiana or Quebec handmade).
Maz

Thanks to all of you who responded to my questions. Sorry it took a while to reply.

Steve: I kind of see it as needing to have the right equipment since I do have limitations that will in all likelihood be present no matter what. I’m just looking to make it as easy as possible for myself. Plus it’s hard to get better with such limited playing time. Playing Cajun/Zydeco music doesn’t seem to be an option but something I have to do (sure none of you understand that).

Ed: I am going to talk with the guy that fronts the local Cajun and Zydeco bands about playing his hand built accordions before I go forward. I can be pretty patient and playing actually helps my spirits while I learn how to live with the pain and limitations. The music seems to be in my blood.

Claude: I actually played for my PT and to my surprise avoided a lawsuit for pain and suffering. He said technique looked good from a PT point of view. I am going to arrange to take a lesson with someone here in town just to check things out.

DP: Sorry to hear what happened as you were learning. I can certainly be prone to unwise enthusiasm but my current circumstances provide me with immediate and dramatic feedback if I fall into that old habit. I agree with what you say about the tension issue and that’s actually gotten better over time. I know the only thing that will make me better is to play. I’m just looking to create the best circumstances I can for making that happen.

Maz: Thanks for the ideas on purchase options. Let me know the person you have in Quebec since it may be easier for me to pay a visit to him.

Bottom line. Thanks for the thoughts and it looks like I’m headed for a handmade box.

If I were you and I was on the market for a good quality box, I would jump on this one on EBAY and do the BUY IT NOW option. See link above. This box is worth over $2K- $2.5K. I will get back to you with my Quebec contact within a couple of days. I am in the process of moving my office, and my business card rolodex is somewhere in a box. Ciao. MAZ

Maz, Yeah I'm looking at it. Hate to say it but I really like the look of wood so this doesn't fit in that way but may be too good of an opportunity to pass up.
Steve