Life with Quantum

New Condos Create Disabled Parking Spaces for Vans

In my previous blog, I wrote about the lack of disabled parking spots in public places like grocery stores and strip malls. So, when a new condo complex was being built about 1 mile down the road from where I live, I was curious. Nobody really knew anything about it or how many units were going to be in it. It looked like a pretty big operation, so I decided to check it out. When I arrived, I spoke to one of the workers from the local construction company that had the contract on the condos. They were building five separate buildings, 4 stories tall and 15 units a floor.

Demonstrating iLevel Technology

While we were talking, the worker commented on my power wheelchair and how he thought it was cool that it can elevate. So, I explained how I can drive while elevated and all the benefits that iLevel® technology offers me in my daily life. Then, he asked me about my wheelchair accessible van. So, I showed him how I get in and out of the vehicle with my wheelchair ramp.

Van-Only Disabled Parking Spaces

disabled parking signs on asphalt pavement — Photo by Jakub Pabis on Pexels.com

He told me that they had just painted the handicap stripes in the parking lot for the condos the day before. They even have spots designated for wheelchair-accessible vans! Sure enough, there were designated handicap spots not only with stripes but stripes that had the word “van” written across them. Due to my previous experiences with a lack of disabled parking spots, especially for people like me who drive wheelchair accessible vans, this was exciting. What a game changer!

Educating Others

Now that these condos have these van-only spots, the challenge will be educating individuals who have disabled parking tags. If there are three disabled parking spots available, they need to leave the van spot empty. Still, I was impressed that somebody had thought about people with disabilities when planning this condo construction, specifically those of us who drive wheelchair accessible vans!

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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Your Complex Wheelchair and the Best Wheelchair Batteries

Whether you are an experienced or first-time power chair user, your wheelchair batteries keep your complex wheelchair running, so you can keep on living your life! While you’ll receive a set of brand-new batteries when you get your new power chair, it’s normal to have to replace the batteries from time to time. When the time comes to replace your batteries, you might ask yourself: what kind of batteries does my wheelchair use? We’re here to explain the type of batteries your complex rehab power wheelchair needs and where you can purchase them!

Understanding Your Complex Wheelchair Batteries

Your Quantum complex rehab power wheelchair uses two long-lasting, 12-volt, deep-cycle batteries. These batteries are sealed and maintenance free. Since they are sealed, there is no need to check the electrolyte fluid level. Deep-cycle batteries are designed to handle a longer and deep discharge. Though they are similar in appearance to batteries you find in a vehicle, they are not interchangeable. Car batteries are not designed to handle a long, deep discharge, and are also unsafe for use in power wheelchairs.

Always use two batteries of the exact same type, chemistry and amp-hour capacity. We recommend deep-cycle batteries, such as AGM and Gel Cell. Click to learn more about best charging practices for your complex wheelchair.

What Kind of Batteries Does My Wheelchair Use?

Each Quantum complex wheelchair may use different size batteries, depending on the power base. We recommend the brand, MK Battery, because they are deep cycle and designed to handle a deep discharge. Here is a list of power bases and their battery requirements.

The 4Front® 2 Complex Wheelchair

Group 24, AGM Cell MK Battery
Group 34, Gel Cell MK Battery

The 4Front® 2 HD Power Wheelchair

Group 24, AGM Cell MK Battery

The Stretto Power Wheelchair

NF-22, Gel Cell, Interceptor 2 Battery
Gel Cell, 40AH, Interceptor Battery
NF-22, AGM, MK Flat Top Battery

The Edge® 3 Complex Wheelchair

NF-22, Gel Cell, Interceptor 2 Battery
NF-22, Gel Cell, MK Battery
NF-22, AGM, MK Battery

The Q6 Edge® 2.0 Power Chair

NF-22, Gel Cell, Interceptor 2 Battery
NF-22, AGM, MK Battery
NF-22, Gel Cell, MK Battery

The Q6 Edge® HD Complex Wheelchair

Group 24, 70-amp Gel Cell, Interceptor 2 Battery
Group 24, 70-amp Gel Cell, MK Battery

The Q6 Edge® Z Power Chair

NF-22, Gel Cell, Interceptor 2 Battery
Group 24, 70-amp Gel Cell, MK Battery

Where Can I Buy Wheelchair Batteries?

Now that you know the type of batteries you need, it’s time to contact your authorized Quantum dealer! They can order the batteries for you and install them. This ensures that the type and size of batteries you receive are correct for your power chair.

If you have moved or are traveling, it may not be possible to follow up with your original dealer. You can use our dealer locator to find qualified Quantum dealers and repair technicians near your location. Simply enter your zip code and go!

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How to Practice Sun Safety When You Have a Disability

While many people are experiencing fall and getting ready for winter, it’s a different environment down here in Florida. In mid-October, we experienced a 92-degree day with total sunshine. If you are not careful, you can get a sunburn quickly. Here’s what you should know about sun safety.

The Importance of Sun Safety

A while back. I met up with a friend at a Tampa Bay Buccaneers football game. He uses a power wheelchair and has cerebral palsy. I noticed that his arms were very red. I asked him and his caregiver about this, and they said they weren’t expecting the sun to be as aggressive as it was. I suggested they find a shaded area to watch the game, but my friend told me that if he were to go inside somewhere he wouldn’t be able to watch the action, which defeats the whole purpose of attending a football game. Although he had a really great time at the football game, my buddy paid for it dearly. He was sunburn on his arms, legs and part of his face.

How the Sun Affects People with Disabilities

It's important to wear sunblock as part of your sun safety routine — Photo by Ricardo Esquivel on Pexels.com

While everyone is at risk for dehydration, heat stroke and other heat-related issues, people with disabilities may be at a higher risk. Many disabilities, such as multiple sclerosis, increase a person’s sensitivity to heat. Lupus can cause inflammation in several organs that may be triggered by exposure to ultraviolet light. In addition, if you take certain kinds of medication, your skin may be extra sensitive to the sun’s rays.

Be Prepared When Spending the Day Outdoors

If you know you plan to spend the day outdoors, pack sunscreen and wear a hat. Consider wearing a long-sleeved sun shirt that offers UV protection. If you’re going somewhere like a beach, bring an umbrella. It’s also important to take breaks from the sun and find some shade for a while. In addition to sun protection, be sure to stay hydrated. Drink lots of water.

The last thing you want to worry about is your time ruined at an event because you didn’t come prepared.

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

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Why It’s Important to Advocate for Yourself as a Patient

I’ve ended up in the hospital three times this month. My experience demonstrates the importance of advocating for yourself when you know something is not right, no matter what doctors and medical staff say.

The First Hospital Visit

bed empty equipments floor — Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

It all started in October. I went into the hospital because my suprapubic catheter was not draining correctly. If you have a spinal cord injury, the suprapubic tube is a hollow flexible tube that goes from your bladder to a bag, so when you pee, the urine travels down the tube and into the bag. So, I explained to the doctor that I was seeing a lot more sediment than usual, which is white particles that sometimes come out of the bladder. This can mean nothing or it can mean you have a UTI. The doctor changed out my suprapubic tube and told me that I just had antibiotics not that long ago, so I should be fine. I decided to give the doctor the benefit of a doubt.

The Second Hospital Visit

One week later, I ended up back in the ER for the same reason. This time, the doctor says that I should make an appointment with a urologist. In the meantime, I should flush out the suprapubic tube every day until I see the urologist, which was over a week away. Mind you, this problem has been going on for several weeks now.

The Third Hospital Visit

So that second hospital visit was on a Monday. By Friday, I was in pain and draining out of the wrong places. I returned to the ER and spoke to the doctor and explained everything to them. I then told them that I was not leaving until the problem is resolved, because I had been in the hospital three times now.

At this point, they actually took me seriously. It’s kind of sad that you have to go out of your way to explain to them that things are not right. Doctors know a lot, but at the end of the day, you know your body better than any doctor. The doctors may think they know something, but it doesn’t always explain the problem or the situation you are experiencing. This is why it’s so important to advocate for yourself. Pain is no joke.

My Treatment

In the end, the medical staff finally began to listen to me. I was admitted into the hospital and they discovered that I did have an infection. I was in the hospital for four days and was administered antibiotics for eight days. I told the doctor that I would not leave the hospital until my pain is gone and my pee looks the way it’s supposed to be. They did accommodate me.

This is just one example of why we need to advocate for ourselves, even if it’s against the advice of a medical professional. If you don’t agree with their opinion, then say so. It’s your body and only you know what you are experiencing.

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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Why I Love the Backup Camera on My Quantum Rehab Wheelchair

Last year I got the backup camera on my Quantum Rehab Wheelchair and it was a real game changer. I love how much I can do with it and I have used it in unexpected ways! Here are five things I love about the backup camera.

Different Setup Options on My Quantum Rehab Wheelchair

The backup camera on a Quantum Rehab Wheelchair

The backup camera was designed to give wheelchair users options. For example, there are different ways the video display can be mounted on your power chair. Plus, the camera itself can be mounted to the different areas on your chair depending on your needs. There are also two modes. You can also choose if you want your backup camera on all the time or only when you are backing up. Being able to personalize my backup camera setup to my needs and desires makes my life so much easier!

My Backup Camera Has Night Vision

The backup camera has night vision! I mean, how cool is that? If I am in a dark place and cannot see, I can just look at my backup camera display and see what’s behind me. While this function is pretty cool at home, it’s even better when I am at a dark bar or camping in the woods!

The Backup Camera Keeps My Pets Safe

I have six pets. Yes, six. That’s a lot of critters running around my home, and they do not always give me the ample space I need to move around. I will admit, a few paws have been run over in my home, to their horror and mine! However, with the backup camera, I can easily see if there is a cat or dog behind me and I can be mindful of how I move to ensure they don’t get hurt.

Navigating Tight Spaces in My Quantum Rehab Wheelchair

The walls in my home are not exactly in tip-top shape, and that’s because I’ve been known to miscalculate how much space I need when turning or backing up. My door frames have definitely been gouged a few times when I backed up too far. The backup camera has definitely helped me in these tight spaces and saved my home from further damage.

Adding the Backup Camera to Your Chair

I think it’s really awesome that wheelchair users can add the backup camera to their chair, even if they did not get one with their chair initially! Usually when a cool new wheelchair feature comes out, we must wait until we get our next wheelchair to access it. That’s not the case here! The Quantum backup camera is available with most bases, seating configurations and electronics. If you aren’t sure if the backup camera is compatible with your Quantum Rehab Wheelchair, just give your dealer a call and they can assist you.

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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A Day in the Life of a Quadriplegic

A day in the life of a quadriplegic can be a lot of work but it can also be fun, as you find ways to live your life. Here’s what a typical day is like for me with my spinal cord injury.

Living as a Quadriplegic: How I Start My Day

My day begins when my personal care attendant arrives. I get out of bed and get cleaned up, then get my clothes on. As you might know, this can take a while. I like to play music and just go with it, have fun. After I get my clothes on and my catheter changed, it’s time to get into my Quantum Rehab Wheelchair. Some people can transfer from their bed to their chair, especially with the help of seat elevation. I can’t transfer independently so my caretaker can lift me from my bed into my power chair or use the Hoyer lift to move me. Once I am in my power chair, I might try to brush my own teeth if my arms are up for the task. After breakfast, I immediately start painting or go for a stroll in my power chair at the park.

Using iLevel on My Power Chair for Social Situations

Jesse is a quadriplegic and uses his mouth to paint art

If I choose to go out that morning to start my day, I will spend time meditating in the park for about an hour or so. Once I come back, it’s time to go to work and I’ll put in 4-5 hours of mouthpainting. Once my neck gets tired, it’s time to take a break and eat some lunch. I might take another look at my paintings afterward to see if things can be improved or if they’re good as is. After that, I have a few hours gap from when my next personal care attendant comes. So, I might socialize with friends, go out to eat and hang out. iLevel technology on my Quantum Rehab Wheelchair really comes in handy when I’m in social situations. I can look at my friends in the eye when elevated. Plus, seat elevation helps me raise above the crowd at the bar or in restaurants.

Winding Down for the Night

From there, it’s time to wind down. I start to get ready for bed with the help of my care attendant. They help me get undressed and either lift me from my power chair to put me into bed or they use the Hoyer lift. From there, I am positioned to sleep comfortably and well until the next day. Then, I get up and do it all over again!

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

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Great Tips on Where to Find Quantum Rehab Wheelchair Repair Near Me

Every minute matters when your Quantum Rehab Wheelchair needs service. Your power chair is how you stay independent. At Quantum Rehab, we build complex rehab equipment that you depend on every day. We take that responsibility seriously. Quantum Rehab is a global innovator for customized wheelchairs thanks to the quality, versatility and durability of our craftsmanship. We understand that parts wear out from time to time and your power chair needs routine service. So you might ask yourself, “where can I find wheelchair repair near me?”

Each Quantum Rehab wheelchair is built to meet the needs of the user. It’s a medical device and servicing it requires special training. Someone who repairs cars is not necessarily equipped to repair your Quantum Rehab Wheelchair.

Quantum Rehab technicians are specially trained to understand structural, electrical and mechanical components of your power chair. For routine maintenance and more complicated repairs, you want someone with a deep level of understanding on the job.

How to Find Wheelchair Repair Near Me

So, how do you find a Quantum dealer near you? Simply contact the dealer where your power chair was originally purchased. If you don’t know where you originally purchased your wheelchair, please call us at 833-745-3835 with your power wheelchair’s serial number. We can tell you who your Quantum dealer is. Click to learn where to find your Quantum Rehab wheelchair’s serial number.

It’s important to note that Quantum Rehab is the manufacturer of your custom-built power wheelchair, but we do not sell wheelchairs to consumers or service them. To purchase a Quantum Power Chair or obtain service, you need to contact an authorized dealer.

Keep the contact information for your Quantum dealer in a safe place. So, whenever you need service or repairs, they are your first call.

What if Your Quantum Rehab Wheelchair Dealer is Closed

blue and white sorry we re closed wooden signage — Photo by Tim Mossholder on Pexels.com

Sometimes, following up with your original Quantum dealer might not be possible. You may have moved or maybe you’re traveling when something happens to your complex wheelchair.

Most people can find qualified Quantum dealers and repair technicians fairly close to them. You could start with Quantum’s dealer locator to see qualified providers near your location. Simply enter the zip code and go!

Of course, if you have uncertainty about any part of finding a provider on your own, call us at 833-745-3835.

Will Medicare Pay for Complex Wheelchair Repairs or Maintenance?

Medicare pays for repairs to durable medical equipment, which includes power chairs, under certain circumstances. Your dealer or technician can help you understand whether your device qualifies, but generally, Medicare will reimburse for repairs as long as:

Repairs are required to make the equipment serviceable or usable
You own or are buying your power chair
The maintenance requires a skilled technician to complete

If your repairs or service are not covered, you have other options. Most providers accept Care Credit, a special credit card just for medical expenses, so you can pay for repairs over time. Just be careful of promotional interest rates and when they expire.

Quantum Rehab Wheelchair Repair Near Me

Quantum Rehab Might not sell or service a complex wheelchair, but we’re still here to help! If you have questions about where to service your equipment or how to find your serial number, call us or send an email!

Phone: 833-745-3835 or email: info@pridemobility.com

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Another Example of Why We Need Power Chair Accessible Bathrooms

Recently, I was out at a restaurant having a few drinks. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and all on one level, but it was located in an older building. After my third drink, I elevated my Quantum Rehab Wheelchair to go to the bathroom. There were two bathrooms side by side: one for men and one for women. Both were single-use bathrooms. I opened up the door to the men’s bathroom and the first word out of my mouth was: “Oh boy, this is going to be tight.” While the doorway was wide enough for me to fit my wheelchair through, there was not enough clearance to pull my power chair all the way and close the door. So, half the restaurant would see me going to the bathroom.

Getting Help from the Staff

Josh in his power chair, spending time with friends

One of the staff members saw that I was having a hard time navigating the bathroom and came over and asked if I needed assistance. I’m the kind of person that does not like to ask anybody for help, but I understood in this situation, I was going to need it. The other option was to pay for my drinks, drive home to use the bathroom and return to the restaurant to pick up my food. Maybe that is what other people in my situation would have done, but it seemed so unfair to have to cut my night short.

I told the waiter that I needed him to stand by the door and block the view of the bathroom. So, the waiter signaled to the bartender and they both stood in front of the door to prevent people from seeing me use the bathroom. Although the situation was slightly embarrassing for me, having a disability and using a power chair means that situations like these come up all the time. it’s how you adapt that makes you the person you are.

Enjoying My Night with My Power Chair

Both the waiter and the bartender kept apologizing to me for the inconvenience. Instead of letting the inconvenience get to me, I thanked them for their help. Their treatment of me really showed how much character they had. This isn’t always the case, as non-disabled people can often be rude to those of us who use power chairs, simply because they do not understand what it is like to live with a disability. In the end, wheelchair accessibility is about more than independence. It’s about wheelchair users having dignity and being treated with respect.

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

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My Quantum Power Wheelchair Helps Me Be Successful

A large part of my life is filled with working in the office. I strive to be a vital asset to any organization in which I am a member. So, when my life drastically changed due to an autoimmune issue that left me unable to walk, I had to relearn how to navigate almost every part of my life in a wheelchair. My professional life and responsibilities at work were no exception. Here’s how my Quantum power wheelchair helped me to be successful at work.

Navigating the Corporate World at iLevel

Her Quantum power wheelchair with iLevel technology gives Merlisha confidence

The corporate atmosphere requires traits that need to be developed and maintained to gain a high level of success. In many situations, your appearance is the difference between capturing and holding the attention and ear of your contemporaries or not being noticed at all. Most people respond to subtle, subconscious cues that help or harm their standing in any peer group. After returning to work, I noticed that being at a lower level changed not only how my team members interacted with me, but how confident they were in my experience and expertise.

Once I received my Quantum power wheelchair, an Edge® 3 with iLevel, the interactions I experienced started to shift drastically. Just the change in height with iLevel, putting me face to face with almost everyone I encounter, shifts their perception. This changes or eliminates some of the more awkward exchanges.

My Quantum Power Wheelchair Gives Me Independence

There is nothing wrong with asking for help when you need to, but needing to wait around on others to assist you with simple tasks can harm your work relationships, as well as your confidence and independence. Being able to elevate my power chair to the counter to use the microwave or the fax machine helps me to maintain my schedule and complete simple tasks around the office.

iLevel Technology Helps Me at Meetings

Merlisha uses iLevel on her Quantum power wheelchair

I often have to lead meetings among those I supervise as well as executives above me. Leading a quick team meeting at the beginning of the workday, where everyone is standing in a loose circle at a higher level than me, was not as impactful and effective as sitting tall and being able to look each team member in the eye. When I am presenting at meetings, my power chair allows me to utilize the podium, whiteboard or flip chart to highlight points in my presentation.

Success in Work with My Quantum Power Wheelchair

My Edge 3 with iLevel technology has helped me tremendously over the last three years. It helps me be more engaged in work and my personal life. When I first returned to my career, I was skeptical about how I would adjust to and navigate in my work environment. My Edge 3 Power Chair has played a vital role in helping me get back to the intelligent, strong, competitive leader that I have been cultivating for more than twenty-five years.

About Merlisha Henderson: Merlisha uses an Edge 3 Power Wheelchair for mobility and lives in Arizona with her family. As a wife, mother and disability advocate in her community, she stays active and independent, working toward bringing equality and access to all. Click here to learn more about Merlisha.

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

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Why I Love to Read in My Quantum Rehab Wheelchair

Most teenagers are not so fond of reading books thanks to technology. The opposite is true for me! Like Matilda and Rory Gilmore, I absolutely love to read! As a power wheelchair user, reading helps transport me to another world from the comfort of my Quantum Rehab Wheelchair with iLevel® technology. I can pick any genre and paint my own picture as I read. I can learn new words and broaden my experiences with just a turn of the page.

Stuck in a Book Rut

For the longest time, I was reading the same books over and over again. I was stuck in a rut. Thanks to one of my best friends, I found books appropriate for my age level that I enjoy 100 times more. That best friend is now my go-to person for book recommendations!

With spinal muscular atrophy, it is very difficult to turn the pages of a book. With some modifications, I prefer to go through the hassle of turning the page than staring at a Kindle or electronic reading device. While some people enjoy it, I prefer the feeling of turning a page and hearing the crinkle of the paper.

My Favorite Genres to Read

As far as book genres go, I’d much prefer non-fiction books. I am not a fan of fantasy or dystopian novels. The only exception to this is “The Selection” Series by Kiera Cass. It was the first book recommendation that my best friend gave me. I am also a huge fan of cheesy Rom-Coms that take place in high school. My whole entire reading aesthetic is very much “sunshine, lollipops and rainbows,” as my parents would call it. The best way to know whether you are enjoying your book is to realize that it’s 1 o’clock in the morning and you can’t stop reading, much like you can’t stop binging a really good show.

Browsing Books at iLevel with My Quantum Rehab Wheelchair

books in black wooden book shelf — Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

One of my favorite activities is going to the library to browse for new books. This is an activity that I can do almost entirely by myself, thanks iLevel technology on my Quantum Rehab Wheelchair. I love going to the library rather than buying books. If you don’t like the book you chose, you can return it with no obligations! Plus, you can take out as many books as you want at one time and enjoy them, instead of feeling forced to read a book you despise simply because you paid for it. forcing yourself to read a book that you despise because you paid for it. A wonderful thing about books is that you will never run out of things to read. While it may seem like it, there’s always another great book out there that is waiting to be read!

About Sakina Shamsi: Sakina lives in New Jersey with her parents and brother. Although she has spinal muscular atrophy type II, Sakina lives a full and independent lifestyle. She is active in the disability community and enjoys horseback riding, baking and crafting. Click here to learn more about Sakina.

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

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