There was a discussion back in April from a woman in a similar situation. You might PM her. I don't know if we reached any conclusions, but you can look at the thread here.
http://www.trailmanorowners.com/foru...ead.php?t=4073
Actually, there is a procedure for making opening a lot easier. I have recommended for people who are a bit frail, but the situation is quite similar. If you use it, you'll find an electric tongue jack to be useful, but that is an easy upgrade.
Check out this thread
http://www.trailmanorowners.com/foru...ad.php?p=14319
I am encouraged by Cheri's response. But if everything went into the proverbial handbasket, I imagine that closing could be assisted with a lever.
1. Close the shells as far as you can.
2. If you can't get that last inch or two, to make the pin snap into the latch, I'm sure you could put a piece of hardwood dowel (closet hanger rod, for example) through the stirrup and use it as a lever to get that final inch.
Bill