I used to think I’d never let my daughter get an electric wheelchair. I was worried she’d get too used to it, lose muscle tone, or never want to use her manual chair again.
What I’ve learned over time is that different mobility devices serve different purposes, and each one brings its own kind of freedom and value to her life.
Her manual wheelchair is perfect for home, school, and most of our daily routines. It’s light, easy to maneuver, and helps her stay independent throughout the day. Her electric wheelchair opens up a completely different world. It gives her access to grass, gravel, and uneven terrain so she can explore the outdoors, go on adventures, and move freely beside her brother without needing extra help.
One doesn’t replace the other. They work together to give her more options and more control. Accessibility looks different in every situation, and what matters most is that she has what she needs to participate fully wherever we go.
If you’ve been hesitant about trying...