LIVE QUICKIE BLOG

When people hear the words "assistive technology," they often picture specialized equipment, adapted devices, or software designed specifically for people with disabilities. I know that world well. I've used assistive technology for most of my life, and I also spent much of my career working in the assistive technology field. I remember when tools that helped with typing, communication, or computer access often involved evaluations, specialized software, training, and sometimes a fair amount of effort to get funded.

Life is more expensive with a disability. And that's one of the reasons I opened an ABLE account. Truly, I cannot think of a reason for any wheelchair user NOT to have an ABLE account. If you haven't heard of "Achieving a Better Life Experience," or ABLE accounts, read on!

Accessible travel has come a long way, and wheelchair users can now experience the joys of Africa in ways that were once unimaginable. Thanks to specialized tour operators, adapted vehicles, and accessible accommodations, travelers with mobility challenges are discovering that an African safari can be just as exciting, comfortable, and unforgettable as they always dreamed it would be.

Sometimes they see me out with my wife and our four kids. Other times they come across a photo online or watch a video of me loading up the family for an adventure, navigating a trail, or simply trying to keep up with everyday life. The sentiment is usually the same: "I can't imagine." The truth is, there was a time when I couldn't imagine it, either.

I'm a single mom of 10 children who travels with four of them while raising my youngest son, Elijah, who lives with a terminal diagnosis of Lissencephaly and uses a wheelchair. This means every trip requires planning that goes far beyond packing bags and booking hotels.