Life with Quantum

3 Reasons Why You Need Quantum’s Wheelchair Backup Camera

There may be other backup cameras on the market, but none like the authentic Quantum backup camera. Don’t fall for imposters! Here are three reasons why you need this wheelchair backup camera.

This Wheelchair Backup Camera Promotes Safety

With a rear viewing angle of 170 degrees, the wheelchair backup camera allows consumers to see what’s going on behind them. Whether you are reversing your power chair in the home, or you want to see cars and pedestrians coming up behind you when out and about, the Quantum backup camera is a great choice! It is available on most bases, seating, and electronics configurations.

There are multiple mounting options available for the camera itself. The display can be mounted off a chair’s armrest, siderails and other places. Optional controller display mounting brackets are also available. Plus, the camera has two settings: it can be left on all the time, or the camera turns on when a reverse command is given on the power wheelchair.

The Quantum Camera Provides Visibility at Night

The authentic Quantum backup camera offers infrared capabilities, allowing you to see at night or low-lit areas. During the winter months, power wheelchair users have appointments to attend and friends and family they need to see. If leaving the house after dark, the wheelchair backup camera provides peace of mind. Infrared capabilities are useful at home too! If you want to get a drink of water or use the bathroom, you can see furniture and walls and won’t have to worry about bumping into them.

The Quantum Backup Camera Helps You Keep Track of Pets

See your pets with the Quantum wheelchair backup camera — Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Whether you are a cat or a dog owner, you want to know where they are at all times when operating your power wheelchair. The backup camera allows you to see your pets when reversing. You won’t worry about running over paws or tails ever again with this must-have wheelchair accessory. Thankfully, our pets do eventually become accustomed to wheels and eventually learn to move out of the way.

Testimonials About this Wheelchair Backup Camera

Don’t just take our word for it! You need to hear from other power wheelchair users like you who have first-hand experience with using the Quantum backup camera. While there are many uses for her backup camera, Kara especially likes that it can help her keep track of her kids when they’re out and about. Click to read Kara’s blog about the benefits of the Quantum camera.

Every consumer has different needs when it comes to seeing what’s going on behind them. Alison Chancellor loves using the wheelchair backup camera on her Stretto Power Chair to fully see her surroundings when outside in the city of St. Louis.

Are you ready to purchase the authentic Quantum backup camera? Contact your authorized dealer today!

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Why You Need a Quantum Power Wheelchair with iLevel

In today’s world, there are so many options out there for power wheelchairs. It can be overwhelming! Here some reasons why I think you should get a Quantum Power Wheelchair with iLevel® technology.

My Quantum Power Wheelchair is Custom Built

Quantum cares about the quality of their products. Each chair is custom built, so you know it’s fitted to you and your medical needs.

The chair moves from one station to the next along the production line, with technicians adding each component, until finally, the completed chair goes through quality control and out the door to your dealer.

The Benefits of iLevel

iLevel® technology on Quantum Power Wheelchairs help improve access. iLevel allows the seat of the chair to elevate, up to 12 inches in height. You can even elevate and drive at the same time, up to 4.5 mph on the Edge® 3. It’s super fast! iLevel means feeling included in the conversation and having access to high-top tables at restaurants.

Suspension and a Smooth Ride

This Quantum Power Wheelchair, an Edge 3, provides a smooth ride

When I drive over bumps in the terrain using other power chairs, it feels like getting hit with a freight train. My Edge® 3 has amazing suspension. They call it SRS ( Smooth Ride Suspension). There are three shocks that are built into the base of the chair. They provide a smooth and quiet ride. Even when you are elevated at iLevel, the ride remains smooth and comfortable, which is important for me. Living with SCI, it’s important that my head isn’t jostled around like crazy.

My Quantum Power Wheelchair Gives Me Comfort

Some other important features on my Edge® 3 include power tilt and power recline. This allows me to raise my legs up if I need to, or tilt my body back, for a change in positioning and pressure relief. Comfort is very important in a power chair.

And if you ever need service on your power chair, just call your dealer. They can troubleshoot your chair and help you with whatever you need. So, get out there and live your best life and roll hard!

About Jesse Cuellar: Jesse is an artist and a brand ambassador for Quantum Rehab®. An accident left him paralyzed from the neck down, so he uses his mouth to paint and expresses himself through his art. Jesse lives in St. Louis, Missouri, and enjoys painting and hanging out with his friends. Click here to learn more about Jesse.

For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!

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Best Wheelchair Accessible Fall Activities

Fall is here! It’s time to do all sorts of fun fall activities that are also wheelchair accessible, like going to a pumpkin patch, getting lost in a corn maze, have a bonfire and gaze at the stars!

Visiting a Wheelchair Accessible Pumpkin Patch

Variety of pumpkins in a pile at a wheelchair accessible pumpkin patch

When going to a pumpkin patch, there is usually so much more than just picking out a pumpkin to carve. Many feature activities like hay rides, entertainment, and even seasonal snacks or meals. You can spend a whole afternoon at the pumpkin patch, taking time to enjoy the location as well as the fun activities. Many pumpkin patches offer a corn maze as well, but some celebrate autumn in a big way: a larger-than-life corn maze. This autumn activity may take all day, as the larger the maze, the more time it takes to work through. Most mazes operate the same way, with checkpoints to obtain pieces of the map to help you find your way out. Getting lost in the maze is a fun activity for an individual or family.

Bonfires and Star Gazing

Hubble Friday - Heavy Metal Stars — Hubble Friday – Heavy Metal Stars by NASA Goddard Photo and Video is licensed under CC-BY 2.0

Building your own open fire or using a fire pit is a great way to unwind after a long day or a relaxing end to that perfect cozy day. Roasting marshmallows brings out the childhood fun of the autumn season. You can get creative with your s’mores, like adding peanut butter cups or cookies, adding a new twist to the classic treat. For those who live in a warmer climate and may not have chilly autumn weather, you can plan a stargazing trip. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the cooler nights and clear skies. Any outdoor space that’s away from the city lights can quickly become a stargazing space. You can use a telescope, but if the night is clear enough, you can see quite a lot with just your eyes. The autumn can bring sightings of Mars and Jupiter depending on your location, as well as a bounty of constellations.

Out of all the fun wheelchair activities, I would have to say that my favorite is going to a pumpkin patch. What’s your favorite fall activity?

About Zoe Hernandez: Zoe lives in Meriden, Connecticut. A Quantum® brand ambassador, Zoe attends Abilities Expos and speaks with people about her disability. She is currently enrolled in college and hopes to work in a community one day with people who are just like her. Click here to learn more about Zoe.

For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!

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Ways I Travel Around Philadelphia with My Power Chair

My power chair gives me independence for transportation in the city. I got my driver’s license at age 18. It was one of the greatest days of my life. I remember taking the exam on my car, which had a stick shift. I was so proud that I made it through the parallel parking part. When the instructor told me I had passed, I jumped out of the car to dance around even though it was raining. Then, when I was 22 years old, my driver’s license was taken away by doctors. My doctors did not believe that it was safe for me to be driving with the neurological and dysautonomia issues I have. Losing the ability to drive a car was the reason I chose to move to Philadelphia. There is nowhere else where I would enjoy the quality of life and independence I have, thanks to my power wheelchair and public transportation.

Meeting with Friends Around the City

Many many non-disabled people with driver’s licenses choose not to have cars in Philadelphia because it’s a disadvantage trying to find parking. When meeting up in the city with my friends who own cars, I’m almost always there first in my power chair. I reserve the table while they circle the block, looking for a parking space.

Taking the Bus in My Power Chair

I remember a conversation I had with my friend, who uses a manual wheelchair, about how buses are easier to navigate for power chair users. The ramps, which are so easy for me, are difficult for others in manual wheelchairs. Also, the narrow width of the turning area when people get onto the bus, causes issues. I never have any difficulty because my Stretto Power Chair turns on a dime and is ultra narrow.

Traveling by SEPTA Train with My Power Chair

Anomie travels around Philadelphia with her power chair

So many people consider power wheelchair users as more disabled than manual wheelchair users because we physically can’t push our wheels. Actually, we have many abilities and mobility privileges because our devices are so advanced and helpful. In contrast, the train that is easy for manual wheelchair users in terms of space and access, is difficult for me. The casters on my power chair can drop down into the gap between the train and platform. So, I have to wait for a SEPTA employee to get their portable ramp. It’s not the worst thing, but it can take a while, and sometimes the employees are rude.

I love getting out as much as possible. I can go out independently to explore the city, with my power chair and Medscope button. Because fall is here now, the outdoor adventures are happening as much as possible so I can enjoy them before it gets too cold. I hate cold weather. When it’s too cold for me to wait out at the bus stop, we have accessible transportation services like Uber WAV that can help us get around.

Anomie Fatale: Anomie is a musician who performs at shows and open mic nights in Philadelphia. She is the current titleholder for Ms. Wheelchair Pennsylvania USA 2022 and is passionate about helping others. Click here to learn more about Anomie.

For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!

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Important Employment Services for Disabled Adults

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). According to the U.S Department of Labor, NDEAM celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities past and present and showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices. To support the employment of people with disabilities, there are multiple government programs, two of those include but are not limited to: vocational rehabilitation and the Ticket to Work program. Read on to learn more about these important employment services for disabled adults.

Vocational Rehabilitation

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a state funded program and is authorized by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. To be eligible for VR services, individuals must have a physical or mental impairment that results in a substantial impediment to employment and who require and can benefit from VR services to achieve employment and maximize career goals. When working with VR, someone can have goal of working part-time or full-time.

Where to Find VR Employment Services for Disabled Adults

Vocational rehabilitation services can include assessments for diagnosis, benefits counseling, funding for school/training, counseling and guidance, work readiness training, job placement, purchase specialized equipment that support employment, and services to support job retention. Vocational Rehabilitation can also offer pre-employment transition services to students, starting at the age of 14. Locate your local vocational rehabilitation office at: https://rsa.ed.gov/about/states

Ticket To Work Program

In her job, Izzie educates individuals about employment services for disabled adults.

The Ticket to Work Program is funded by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and supports career development for people who receive Social Security benefits, ages 18 through 64 who want to work through Employment Networks. This program is authorized by the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. To be eligible for Ticket to Work, one must be receiving some or all their SSA cash benefit when their ticket is assigned and wanting to work their way off their cash benefit within three to five years.

Ticket To Work services can include benefits counseling, work readiness training, job placement and services to support job retention. Find out more about the Ticket to Program at: https://yourtickettowork.ssa.gov

It is important to note that people receiving Social Security benefits can work with vocational rehabilitation or the Ticket to Work Program based on their needs. Those with disabilities who are not receiving SSA cash benefits should contact their local vocational rehabilitation office.

About Isabella Bullock: Isabella, or Izzie for short, is an employment specialist for the Center of Independent Living. She is an iced coffee enthusiast who enjoys getting lost in a good book. Click here to learn more about Isabella.

For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!

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National Disability Employment Awareness Month: How to Navigate the Workforce with a Disability

For National Disability Employment Awareness Month, I reflected on the ways my career has grown over the past few years. I started my career in disability advocacy and I hope to apply what I have learned to my passion for engineering. I have applied to many job openings and have had many interviews in fields such as marketing, advertisement, retail, STEM, and government. While I am no expert, I would love to share with you what employment means to me as a person with a disability and what I have learned in the workforce.

Employment Brings Independence

Having the ability to be employed is an act of independence. It allows individuals access to a paycheck, employer benefits and income stability. For many, employment is a major goal and the disability community has historically been excluded from this opportunity.

Employment Provides Education

Employment can bring educational opportunities. Internships and work studies are one way to learn on the job. Your employer might also offer a scholarship program or give you access to educational opportunities.

Some Tips When Looking for Employment

Here are a few things I have learned about networking and some resources to consider.

Networking and Using LinkedIn

National Disability Employment Awareness Month — Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com

Even the smallest of jobs can offer networking opportunities. Stay in touch with your co-workers and supervisors via email or LinkedIn. This is also a great way to learn about employment opportunities. LinkedIn is a fantastic tool for researching employers. If you are looking for a way to connect with an employer that has good hiring practices, search online for individuals who are open about their disability and work in the same field as you. Chances are, they can answer your question or know someone who can.

Do Not Disclose Your Disability Status

This was a mistake I made because of good intentions. I am a nerd for statistics. I assumed companies used the disclosure data to improve their hiring practices. While no one can be sure if they are being discriminated against for disclosing a disability, it’s better to be safe and not disclose any information. Have two separate resumes: one resume contains disability related experience and the other resume focuses on non-disability experience. This piece of advice sounds a little weird, but employers may exclude you for simply being associated with a disability.

About Riley Hurt: Riley lives in Salem, Oregon, and uses a Stretto Power Wheelchair for mobility. Riley is enrolled in college, pursuing electrical and computer engineering. She hopes to make her future field more inclusive for people with disabilities. Click here to learn more about Riley.

For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!

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How My Quantum Power Wheelchair Helps Me Be Successful in College

Thanks to my Quantum Power Wheelchair, a Stretto with iLevel® technology, I can do a plethora of things on my college’s campus at the University of North Carolina in Charlotte. It has made my life easier and has increased my independence. Here are some of the ways in which my power chair makes a difference in my life as a student.

Attending Classes in My Power Chair

Note-taking in lectures is critical, and iLevel helps me do just that. I can see the professor during their presentations when attending classes. I can also fit under desks and tables when I’m not raised up. I can get to class easily and quickly in my power chair, driving up to 3.5 mph while elevated. I can walk with friends and being raised up helps others see me in a large crowd.

Getting Meals with My Quantum Power Wheelchair

When getting food in between classes, my Stretto Power Chair comes in handy. Whether in the dining halls or the fast-food options on campus, I have independence when getting my meals. I can elevate, get my food quickly and put it on my plate in the dining hall. iLevel’s Extra Stability Technology® helps keep me stable when elevated.

Managing the College Newspaper

As the sports editor of the student-run newspaper on campus, my power wheelchair has helped me do my job. During our weekly meetings, I talk with my staff while elevated 12 inches at iLevel, allowing them to see me better. When I go to press conferences or conduct interviews, seat elevation helps me get better recordings while being closer to the individual I am interviewing.

Watching Sporting Events in My Quantum Power Wheelchair

My wheelchair is a game-changer at sporting events! I can see over everybody while getting a clear view of the action on the field or court. When I am covering games for the paper on press row or in the box, iLevel gives me a great view.

Completing My Schoolwork

Bryson does schoolwork while elevated in his Quantum Power Wheelchair

My iLevel plays a vital part in getting my schoolwork done. I have a desk that I work at that is rather tall, but when raised, I fit perfectly. Without my Quantum power wheelchair, I couldn’t edit articles or complete my homework.

Living with a disability and being a college student can be challenging, but having my power chair makes life easier. My wheelchair is a lifesaver and gives me the independence to be who I am. I am thankful to have my Stretto Power Chair with iLevel, which has improved my college experience.

About Bryson Foster: Bryson lives in North Carolina. He advocates and raises funds for the development of treatments for muscular dystrophy. He loves sports and cheers for his favorite basketball team, the North Carolina Tar Heels. Click here to learn more about Bryson.

For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!

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Quantum Holds Halloween Contest

GHOULS ALERT! We’re batty about Halloween. Participate in our photo contest and you could win an Amazon gift card! Decorate your Quantum Power Chair and incorporate it into your Halloween costume. Snap a photo and send it to us! Win a gift card and bragging rights! Here are the rules broken down for each social media platform. You only need to submit your photo through one of these platforms.

Facebook

Turn your Quantum power chair into a cool costume
Snap a photo of you in your tricked out power chair
Send us your photo via Facebook messenger or post it to our Facebook page
Prizes: 1st Place 🏆 – $40 | 2nd Place 🏆- $30 | 3rd Place 🏆 – $20
Deadline to enter: Monday, October 31, at 11:59 p.m.

Rules for Twitter

Turn your Quantum Power Chair into a cool Halloween costume
Snap a photo of yourself in your tricked out power chair
Tweet us with your photo and the hashtag #QHalloweenContest
Prizes: 1st Place 🏆 – $40 | 2nd Place 🏆- $30 | 3rd Place 🏆 – $20
Deadline to enter: Monday, October 31, at 11:59 p.m.

Rules for Instagram

Turn your Quantum Power Chair into a cool Halloween costume
Snap a photo of yourself in your tricked out power chair
Send us your photo via Direct Message
Prizes: 1st Place 🏆 – $40 | 2nd Place 🏆- $30 | 3rd Place 🏆 – $20
Deadline to enter: Monday, October 31, at 11:59 p.m.

We can’t wait to see all your cool costumes. Good luck!

The Awesome Backup Camera on My Quantum Rehab Wheelchair

Kara uses the backup camera on her Quantum Rehab Wheelchair to see what's behind her

As I set up my first Quantum Rehab Wheelchair this time last year, there were several decisions to make. What color should I choose for the base? What about the wheels? Which side should I mount my joystick? At the time, the Quantum backup camera was a relatively newer option, and I was excited to give it a try. My rep mounted it atop my joystick so it would easily swing away if I needed clearance to slide up to a table or reach something to my right. We discussed that if the backup camera wasn’t something I ended up using, we could always remove it. Since then, though, I’ve learned some unexpected benefits of the backup camera. For me, it’s here to stay.

Seeing Around Corners in My Quantum Rehab Wheelchair

Navigating with a power chair is quite different than pushing my manual chair. While my Stretto is narrow, I still must account for more room behind me than in my manual chair. The backup camera has helped ease this learning curve and save many walls! There are also times that I can navigate in my Quantum Power Wheelchair without turning around because I can guide myself with the camera.

Watching Out for Pets

The backup camera on a Quantum Rehab Wheelchair can help you to see animals that are behind you — Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

For the last couple of months, we’ve been fostering four kittens. The backup camera has saved them from potential demise! As most wheelchair users know, our pets become accustomed to wheels and eventually learn to move from our path just as they would move out of the way of someone. When we first began fostering, our kittens were just a bit over a pound each and small enough to fit in our hands. Some lessons are too hard to learn the hard way. So, I’m thankful the backup camera has saved us all from that experience more than once!

Keeping Track of My Kids While in My Quantum Rehab Wheelchair

Like many people with power chairs, I don’t yet have transportation to take my power chair from place to place. When I eventually do, I’m looking forward to using the Quantum backup camera to assist with keeping track of my kids. When we’re in a crowd, I constantly check that my kids are with us. It can be impossible to look behind me while pushing my manual wheelchair. The backup camera on my Quantum power wheelchair will be the perfect tool to keep track of everyone while moving forward. It’s also a much more helpful (although maybe less amusing) use than my youngest’s favorite way to utilize the backup camera. She opens her mouth to give me a full and shockingly clear view of her tonsils!

Better Access to Durable Medical Equipment

When I reflect on my access to durable medical equipment, my privilege to have such access is often on my mind. Equipment like the Quantum backup camera is not a fashion accessory. People should equip their wheelchairs with what they need and what they want (and leave off what they don’t want). I’m fortunate to live in a time where technological advancements offer so many options for mobility and empowerment. Through advocacy and education, I hope to work towards greater access to these tools for all who need and want them.

About Kara Ayers: Kara is a mother of three and lives in Ohio. She is an associate professor at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center. In 2021, Kara spoke to the Biden-Harris COVID-19 Equity Taskforce about the need for people with disabilities to access the COVID-19 vaccine. Click here to learn more about Kara.

For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!

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How I Celebrate Spooky Season

It is FINALLY Halloween season! I wait all year for this season because it is my absolute favorite! I firmly believe that Halloween season begins in September and goes all the way through October 31. I eagerly await the first weekend of September which is when we bring out all our Halloween decorations! For some, this may seem too early, but I think that this season is not long enough and I only wish I could bring out the Halloween decorations sooner (but my husband has firmly told me that September is the earliest he can do).

Why I Love Spooky Season

Stephanie in her Quantum Power Wheelchair

I get so excited for this time of year because this season brings some of my favorite things! Yes, I love pumpkin spice lattes, but there is so much more to love than that! I love apple cider and pumpkin picking. I love watching scary movies and eating tons of candy. I get giddy when thinking about all the skeletons and mummies that we’ll put in our yard! And, of course, who doesn’t love dressing up in a new costume every year?!

New Year, New Decorations

This year, I was thrilled to kick off Halloween season by bringing out some of my newest outdoor decor! On the first weekend of September, my husband and I threw a mini Halloween decorating party. We ordered pizza and snacks and invited family over to help us make our front yard spooktacular! In previous years the highlight of our front yard was our giant blow-up haunted tree, our life size mummy, or our handmade casket that we put in the graveyard area of our yard. This year, however, I was thrilled to add THREE huge skeletons to our Halloween collection! We have one plain giant skeleton, a pumpkin head giant skeleton, and a mummy – all standing 12 feet tall! Even when I am sitting at iLevel, I feel miniscule in comparison to them!

Since putting up our decorations, our house has been the talk of the town! So many people have already stopped in our yard to admire the scene and we love talking to the little kids who are fascinated by all of it! As a bonus, our neighbors truly LOVE our yard and often tell us that they cannot wait to see what we do next. I can’t wait either!

About Stephanie Woodward: Stephanie is a brand ambassador advisor for Quantum Rehab® and works as a disability rights activist. She has received many awards for helping communities become more accessible, as well as for her actions in fighting for the rights of disabled individuals as it relates to Medicaid and other support services. Click here to learn more about Stephanie.

For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!

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