LIVE QUICKIE BLOG

There is simply no better feeling than arriving in a new destination and hitting the ground running. You are filled with excitement and are ready to explore the unique culture, sample delicious local foods, delve into the history, and be captivated by their entertainment. But what if you use a wheelchair, or a walker, cane, or even travel with your small children in a baby stroller?

Now an 11-year-old boy living with his mom, Caddie, in suburban Melbourne, Xabian was born with an undiagnosed condition that severely limits his mobility and causes his arms to flail unexpectedly – movements often completely outside of his control.

Every morning in our house looks different than most. The kids climb into the van with me, not by watching me hop in effortlessly, but by watching me lock down my chair, secure my equipment, and adapt the space around me so we can start the day safely. They hand me things I can't reach. They wait a little longer when I'm transferring. They don't see inconvenience, they see teamwork.

While my body felt broken and my mind felt self-confused, movement made me feel whole. Zumba showed me that no matter if I am sitting or standing, dance is so much more than just dance. Dance is fun and unique. Dance is a community, which is something I yearned for but didn't know how much I truly needed.

Through the years we have purchased a few wheelchairs for Andrew. We are fortunate to have a great system and team in place. Here is how we go about getting a new wheelchair for Andrew.