Life with Quantum

Go Where You Want to Go: Part 2

Morgan uses his Stretto Power Wheelchair to go where he wants to go!

The second television commercial in the Stretto campaign from Quantum® began airing June 7. The new commercial features Morgan Steward, 12, who is a Brand Ambassador for Quantum. Morgan, who has spinal muscular atrophy, describes what the Stretto can do and how it has given him more freedom.

“I’ve been using a power chair my entire life, so I definitely know what I want,” Morgan says in the commercial. “Quantum has made huge advancements with the new Stretto.”

He also talks about Quantum’s new backup camera.

Consumers are hungry for information. They’d like to know more about the differences between power chairs, especially exciting, new innovations before meeting with a therapist and ATP.

That was one of the main takeaways from Quantum focus groups of power chair users. Led by Stephanie Woodward, Quantum’s Brand Ambassador Advisor, the focus groups identified what power chair users wanted to see and that they felt the industry needed to be educated on what consumers are looking for.

This feedback was the inspiration behind Quantum’s Stretto commercial campaign, which began airing nationwide last December. The first commercial featured 20-year-old Bryson Foster who is a friend of Quantum.

If viewers would like more information, the end of the commercial directs them to quantumrehab.com/gostretto to learn more about both Morgan and the Stretto. The page also has a link to find a provider for assistance.

Click here to view the commercial.

My Summer Trip at Sea with iLevel

While I have been experiencing the warmth and what I call “endless summer” in Florida, it is starting to get warmer up in the north. So naturally, when I speak with my friends from New York, We are making some summer plans. If you know me, you know that I love the outdoors. So last week me and my friends had a big video call about our yearly guy trip. Sometimes, we go to Las Vegas or the Caribbean. With all the restrictions due to COVID, we are unsure about what might be open and to what degree. So, for this summer, we have decided to do a boating trip.

Planning Our Trip

One of my friends has a boat that can accommodate 15 people. We figured this would be the best and safest way we can all hang out with each other. Currently, our plan is to depart from New York and take the boat to the Carolinas. Then, we camp in the Carolinas on the beach and then sail back up to New York. Our trips are usually 5-6 days when we go, so we figured this will allow plenty of time to travel. We won’t have to worry about flying or restrictions. It’ll be safe for us and we’ll get to spend time together.

I’m actually looking forward to the trip this year. It’s more of an adventure. My friends are always very accommodating of my physical needs and my friend’s boat is big enough that I can take my Edge® 3 Power Wheelchair. We usually take my buddy’s boat out every year on the Hudson River and normally I leave my power wheelchair at the marina because we return the same day. This year will be the first year where my friends will be lifting my motorized wheelchair on to the boat to bring with us. Normally when I board the boat, one or two of my friends just pick me up and carry me onto the boat and put me on the couch or the outdoor table. Obviously, I cannot move from that spot once I’m there, but my friends are really good about bringing me drinks and food. Since we are bringing my motorized wheelchair on the boat this time, I’ll be more independent and can move around the boat whenever I want.

Having a Backup Plan

When I told my parents our plans for this year’s guys trip, they thought It was risky because of loading and unloading my motorized wheelchair onto the boat. So, to put myself at ease, I will also bring my Go-Go® mobility scooter just to have as a backup if we want to go to shore for something. I wonder if this will be the first time iLevel® technology will be sailing on a privately owned boat. I know a lot of Quantum® power wheelchairs have been on cruises. Still, I have yet to see one on a privately owned boat sailing the ocean.

Talking it Out

I’m looking forward to the trip but in my mind, I always think of the worst case scenarios. So, I have made a list of things that I’m concerned about. Before we depart on our trip, I will sit down with the guys and let them know all my concerns, so we are on the same page. I will not let my disability stop me or hold me back from this trip. There is always a way to make what you want to do a reality. I’m thankful that I have friends who understand.

About Josh McDermott: Josh is a brand ambassador for Quantum Rehab®. He is a public speaker and has served as a goodwill ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Josh lives in New York and loves to travel. Click here to learn more about Josh.

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

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Morgan Steward: Go Where You Want to Go!

At just 12 years old, Morgan Steward has a lot of responsibilities. He leads the annual Christmas parade for his hometown of Covington, Georgia. He helps at the annual “Shop-with-a-Cop” during the holidays, taking underprivileged children shopping for gifts. He’s also a brand ambassador for Quantum. What helps him keep up with his busy life? His Stretto Power Wheelchair!

Using His Stretto Power Wheelchair

Born with spinal muscular atrophy, Morgan uses the Stretto Power Wheelchair for mobility. He loves the style and the ultra-narrow base on his power chair. The Stretto is the narrowest, most maneuverable power wheelchair in America. With an overall width of 20.47 inches, Morgan can easily drive around the tight corners in his house.

“With the narrower base on the Stretto, it’s so easy to navigate tight rooms, narrow doorways and van ramps,” Morgan said.

Feeling More Included with iLevel

Morgan’s favorite hobby is playing and competing in video game tournaments. He even wants to be a video game designer when he grows up. Morgan also plays adaptive baseball with the Miracle League of Newton County, Georgia. The Stretto Power Chair comes with optional iLevel® technology, which elevates the seat of Morgan’s power chair up to 12 inches while driving 3.5 mph. With iLevel, Morgan can elevate his motorized wheelchair and feel more included in team photos.

One of Morgan’s favorite features on the Stretto is the optional Quantum backup camera. Morgan can see what’s behind him when reversing his motorized wheelchair, whether it’s door frames, furniture or a friend’s dog.

Experiences a Smoother Ride with SRS

The Stretto Power Wheelchair is equipped with independent SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension), for a smooth and comfortable ride.

“The Stretto has amazing suspension and is excellent outdoors, especially at the playground,” Morgan said.

From camping with his family to playing on the playground, the Stretto Power Wheelchair can handle it all.

No matter what the day brings, Morgan knows that he can go where he wants to go with the Stretto!

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Why Choose the 4Front® 2 Electric Wheelchair

The next generation of the 4Front® Power Chair here! The 4Front® 2 Electric Wheelchair offers many new advancements for front-wheel drive users. With exciting new features, powerful suspension and a sleek look, the 4Front 2 is a fabulous addition to the Quantum lineup. Read on to learn more about this formidable power chair.

The Benefits of Front-Wheel Drive Power Chairs

When beginning the process of choosing your next power wheelchair, your therapist and the ATP collaborate on which power wheelchair best suits your needs. As part of this process, the drive wheel configuration is considered and front-wheel drive power chairs offer many benefits.

One of the biggest advantages of front-wheel drive is that there is there more force distributed to each tire on the power base. A front-wheel drive power base only has four tires (as opposed to six on a mid-wheel drive). The greater force increases traction. This allows front-wheel drive power wheelchairs to perform well when driving over softer terrain, grass or uneven gravel. Discover more benefits of front-wheel drive power wheelchairs.

What’s New with the 4Front® 2 Electric Wheelchair?

When you drive wheelchairs, you need to know that your power wheelchair is up for anything. The 4Front 2 delivers. New Smart Traction Control (STC) combines with automotive-grade Smooth Ride Suspension (SRS) to provide stability for smooth obstacle transitions and unmatched driving performance. The 4Front 2 Electric Wheelchair features redesigned caster arms for improved durability and aesthetics, as well as reduced weight. In addition, the 4Front 2 is equipped with 4-pole motors. With increased speeds up to 6.25 mph, you can cruise along on a wide array of terrain.

With optional power adjustable safe seat elevation, you can elevate your 4Front 2 up to 10 inches while driving at 3.5 mph. Be visible when crossing the street and parking lots. Plus, LED front and rear fender lights help you see and be seen in low-light areas, such as parking garages and movie theaters.

4Front 2 Wheelchair Accessories

The 4Front 2 offers the optional wheelchair backup camera to help you see what’s going on behind you. Multiple mounting options are available for the camera and the 3.5-inch LCD display easily mounts off the armrest or siderails. Infrared mode allows you greater visibility at night. Whether you are backing up in a dark room in your home or seeing what’s behind you when out in the community after dark, the backup camera is a great addition to the 4Front 2.

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Summer Activities for Wheelchair Users

Summer is just around the corner! I can’t wait to make up for last year. With COVID, I was pretty limited with what I could do. This summer is a different story. I have a lot of activities that I want to get back to doing.

Skateboarding

I love skateboarding with Mya. She loves it too! She howls with joy every time I pull out my electric skateboard. I like going really fast on it. It does about 22 mph. Of course, safety is important. To protect my body in case I fall, I wear a pair of adaptive shorts that are heavily padded and skid proof.

Frisbee Golf with My Power Wheelchair

Frisbee golf is something I love doing. If you don’t know what frisbee golf is, it’s similar to regular golf only instead of balls and clubs, we use discs and baskets. One throw is counted as a stroke each time you try to throw the disc into the basket. The goal is to play each hole with the fewest throws as possible. Frisbee golf works well with iLevel® too. I can elevate my Edge® 3 Power Wheelchair to standing height so I have a better chance of making the shot.

Golfing with iLevel®

When it comes to summer activities, playing golf is always a given. I recently did a blog on how I golf with one hand. With iLevel, I can elevate my power wheelchair up to 12 inches and use my good hand to take a swing and whack the ball.

If you want to read more about adaptive golf and how I golf in my power wheelchair, click the link.

Adaptive Water Sports

For me, summer also means water sports! When I’m in LA, I always enjoyed surfing, but I won’t be doing that this year. Still, there’s plenty of other water activities I can do at the lake. I can’t wait to spend time out on the boat, tubing or just hanging with my friends on a raft. One new thing I’m going to do this summer is scuba diving. I’m really excited for that.

I feel like there’s going to be a lot to do because everyone is sick of being stuck inside. I can’t wait to see what other opportunities pop up as well. I’m really good at adapting to new things and taking on new challenges. So, get out there and enjoy summer!

About Bryan Anderson: Bryan grew up and resides in Illinois. Injured by an IED in October 2005, Bryan is one of the few triple amputees to survive his injuries in Iraq. He is an ambassador for the Gary Sinise Foundation and a spokesperson for USA Cares, which is focused on assisting post 9-11 veterans. Click here to learn more about Bryan.

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

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Wheelchair-Accessible Treasure Island

At the end of May, I went on a girls’ trip with three of my friends. It was my best trip yet! Going on vacation is often correlated with relaxion. When you have a disability, however, a vacation can be quite the opposite! There is a lot of preparation required and there are concerns related to accessibility.

With three girls who use power wheelchairs and one who has a visual impairment, it was important to travel somewhere accessible. After much research, we picked Treasure Island in Clearwater, Florida. We stayed in an ADA condo right off the water and made memories that will last a lifetime.

Wheelchair-Accessible Hotels

Treasure Island has condo-style hotels along the beach that have multiple bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room, and two bathrooms. We got an ADA condo, which means the master bath had a roll in shower and there were grab bars for the shower and toilet. Our resort also had a chair lift for the pool and a paved walkway to the beach.

Accessibility at the Beach

Izzie Bullock enjoys the view at the beach

One of the things that drew us to Treasure Island was that the beach had a paved walkway along the hotels and restaurants. This allows you to enjoy the view while roaming around the island. One thing to note is that the path is not well lit at night, which makes nighttime roams along the beach difficult.

When we wanted to get closer to the beach, there is a wheelchair friendly path. Plus, the beach snack bar has beach/sand manual wheelchairs that requires another person to push. These are free for all to use on first come, first-serve basis. For greater independence, we rented two sand friendly power wheelchairs from a third-party vendor for the day!

The Restaurants and Shops

What makes Treasure Island so accessible is that everything is within walking distance. The island is a strip of restaurants and hotels, which means you can move around the island without needing to worry about finding accessible transportation. Every night we went to different restaurant or bar and the food did not disappoint.

Wheelchair-Accessible Transportation

We flew into Tampa and took accessible taxis to our condo (warning: the taxi fare is pricy). Due to our limited stay, we only mobilized within Treasure Island. There is the Jolley Trolley, which is a form of public transportation that is fully accessible and stops along the different beaches in Clearwater. The Jolly Trolley runs from 10 A.M. to 10 P.M. and only cost $2.50 a day for unlimited rides for people with disabilities. For non-disabled people, the cost is $5 a day.

Overall, planning a trip for multiple people with different accessibility needs can be overwhelming. Treasure Island was a definite win and we cannot wait to go back next year. Memories were made and of course, four disabled women traveling together doesn’t happen without some good stories.

Until next year, Treasure Island!

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

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Herbert Phillips: Moving Forward with His 4Front®

Herbert Phillips, known to his friends as “Big Lee,” has a BIG heart! With his 4Front® Power Wheelchair, Herbert can live more independently and spend time with his family and friends.

Born with cerebral palsy, Herbert is unable to use his hands or feet. He needs assistance with doing things like eating or getting dressed. When speaking, others can understand him, but he has trouble pronouncing large words. Still, Herbert can drive himself anywhere he wants to go with his accessible van. When driving his 4Front Power Wheelchair, Herbert uses a chin control, which allows him to operate his power chair easily. He also uses the chin control to work his cell phone, television and more.

With 10 inches of power adjustable safe seat elevation on his 4Front Motorized Wheelchair, Herbert can elevate the seat of his motorized wheelchair for greater access to his environment. With safe seat elevation, he can reach high-top tables when he is out at restaurants. The safe seat elevation also helps Herbert be more visible to others.

“I’m always going somewhere. I use the elevation so people won’t walk into me.”
Herbert Phillips

Herbert Phillips in his 4Front Power Wheelchair

The 4Front Power Wheelchair includes automotive-grade SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension). Herbert can enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride wherever his day takes him, which includes driving around his hometown of Nashville, Tennessee. He navigates uneven sidewalks or other rough terrain effortlessly.

Herbert graduated from Middle Tennessee State University and has earned five different degrees. He has many other interests, including music, and “knows everything about computers.”

Herbert’s 4Front Power Chair is equipped with the Quantum® backup camera. With a rear viewing angle of 170 degrees, the backup camera promotes safety. Herbert can use the LCD display to see what’s behind him when reversing. So far, he has discovered many uses for the backup camera.

“I love my backup camera because I’m always on the go. The camera is very helpful in stores and getting in and out of my van.”
– Herbert Phillips

Herbert knows the value of maintaining his independence and living a full, active life. He loves to demonstrate to others what he can do without using his hands. He isn’t afraid to share his story with others.

“I go around and talk about my life and my power chair,” Herbert said.

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From a Walker to a Power Wheelchair

When I was in third grade, my parents, my doctor, and I made the decision for me to get a manual wheelchair. Up until that point, I’d been walking full-time, using a walker and wearing full-length leg braces for support. I remember the process of learning to walk. I said: “push and walk, push and walk” over and over. Even though I could waddle along pretty quickly, it was an exhausting and cumbersome process, so a wheelchair made sense.

Switching to a Manual Wheelchair

I recall my doctor and my parents expressing concern about me losing my ability to walk. Walking was the most important thing in the whole world. Getting a wheelchair wasn’t necessarily considered a wise idea. So, I tried my best to avoid using the wheelchair, even though I needed it.

Gradually, I began using the wheelchair more frequently. By the time I reached middle school, I found it necessary to help me get around the bigger school building. And then, in high school, the building was even bigger. So, the time came to have a conversation about getting a power wheelchair.

New Power Wheelchair, New School

At this point, both my family and I had come around to accepting my manual wheelchair as a necessary mobility tool to get around, yet a power wheelchair was another big decision. Pushing myself around a giant three-floor school building was wearing me down. Still, I found myself worried about whether I’d be judged as “lazy” for getting around on battery power.

On the first day I went to school in my power wheelchair, I definitely got a few comments from people. (Lots of “slow down, speed racer” and “don’t run me over!”) People weren’t judging me. Turns out, I was judging myself.

I alternated between using my manual wheelchair and my power wheelchair at school. On days where I brought my power wheelchair, I felt like my world had opened. I wasn’t rushing as much to get to classes on time and I wasn’t completely wiped out by the time I got to my desk. I was able to rest my muscles and focus on my work. And I found other ways to maintain strength and movement through physical therapy and exercise.

Using My Power Wheelchair at College

Getting a power wheelchair in high school proved to be one of the best decisions I ever made. By the time I was ready to go to college, I was a pro at navigating with it. It empowered me to get around my university’s campus with ease and speed. And since then, it’s been my faithful companion wherever I travel, whether it’s down the block or across the country. Looking back, I wish someone had told me that wheelchairs shouldn’t be a source of shame. They’re a source of mobility and freedom.

About Emily Ladau: Emily is a blogger and serves as the editor in chief of Rooted in Rights. She co-hosts a podcast and has been recognized as an emerging leader in the disability community. Emily lives on Long Island and enjoys traveling and trying new restaurants. Click here to learn more about Emily.

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

More Innovative Power Wheelchairs, Thanks to You!

Over the past few years, Quantum Rehab has been hosting consumer roundtables to get perspectives and feedback from power wheelchair users across the country. These roundtables came to life after the marketing team and the research & development team started brainstorming about how Quantum can create the very best power wheelchairs for users. Quantum already has power chair users working in a variety of roles. Still, we wanted to go beyond that, getting the perspectives of people outside of Quantum.

Hosting Consumer Roundtables for Power Wheelchair Users

We decided to host consumer roundtables! We invite people who use any brand of complex rehab power wheelchair to provide their thoughts and opinions on technology that currently exists. We also want their wishes for the future of power wheelchairs. Each person who participates in our roundtable discussions are compensated for their time and valuable feedback.

Since we began these roundtables, I have had the honor of serving as the moderator for each session. In this role, I connect with users who provide feedback, ensuring there is space for everyone to share their thoughts. I learn so much! Each person uses their wheelchair in vastly different ways. I love learning how different people interact with the world as wheelchair users.

Our motorized wheelchairs allow us to do so much in our homes, jobs, schools, and society. Plus, there is always room to grow and improve how our wheelchairs help us to be active participants in our communities. By actively engaging with wheelchair users from across the country, we learn from them and create innovative motorized wheelchairs based on their feedback. Quantum is truly making complex rehab power chairs that are consumer inspired.

Want to Be Involved?

If you are ever interested in participating in a consumer roundtable, let me know! You can email me at swoodward@quantumrehab.com. I can tell you more about the process and our plans for future consumer roundtables!

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.

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Wheelchair Accessible Half Moon Lake Lodge

Although there are many beautiful places in Wyoming, and one of those that is exceptionally beautiful is a small town called Pinedale. It’s located about an hour from where I live. To celebrate Mother’s Day this year, my friend, Bill, and I went to Pinedale. There are many small lakes in the area and the one we chose to visit is called Half Moon Lake.

Driving to Half Moon Lake

Half Moon Lake sits up in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. It’s the third largest national forest outside of Alaska, at about 3.4 million acres. The drive to Half Moon Lake is mostly dirt road, but it’s very well maintained. The road is lined with willows, aspens and pine trees, all along the shore. There is also a paved scenic road that starts in Pinedale and is accessible during the warmer months of the year. The Pine Creek Overlook offers spectacular views into the Wind River Range and Fremont Lake, which is one of the deepest natural lakes in the country.

Enjoying the View

Bill and I both grew up in Wyoming and his favorite place to go is the Half Moon Lake Lodge, which is tucked away at the foot of the majestic Wind River Mountains. People from near and far come to this place to camp. The lodge and the lake are surrounded by towering peaks that are 13,000 feet high. The place is well known and when you are here, it seems like you are somewhere magical.

Accessibility at Half Moon Lake Lodge

Madonna in her Edge 3 Motorized Wheelchair

Bill and I ate lunch at the lodge, which was amazing. The dining room and deck are set up so you can enjoy the gorgeous view of the lake. There are a lot of fun things to do at the lodge. You can go fishing or horseback riding. You can rent a motorboat, kayaks or paddleboards.

By far, the best part about the lodge is that it is fully accessible. I easily entered the lodge with my Edge® 3 Power Wheelchair. The restrooms were power wheelchair accessible as well.

So, if you are ever in Wyoming, be sure to look up the Half Moon Lodge. If you’re lucky, you might get to pet a furry animal outside the front door.

About Madonna Long: Madonna works as a disability advocate to educate policymakers and congressional leaders on disability issues. She uses an Edge 3 Power Wheelchair for mobility. She is a mother to four children and lives life on her terms, despite a spinal cord injury. Click here to learn more about Madonna.

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

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