Lifestyle

After becoming a wheelchair user, once of the hardest adjustments was letting go of my love for heels. I had to embrace a new style, which meant building confidence in sneakers, flat boots, and other footwear I never would have considered before. It wasn't easy at first. It felt like a process of trial and error.

12/30/2024 12:00:00 AM

Not knowing much about disability prior to my accident, I had a lot to learn. I had to decide which of my interests I could adapt to fit my new lifestyle, which things I had to let go of, and which things I may be interested in now that I hadn't been before. It was when I came to terms with this that I began to build a new life – a new life that I've come to love.

7/2/2024 12:00:00 AM

Camp with a Ramp is a three-day event designed for people with spinal cord injuries featuring activities such as adaptive kayaking, adaptive mountain biking, fishing, adaptive horse riding, and many more camp activities. Sunrise Medical was a proud sponsor of Camp with a Ramp last year and we look forward to contributing to this event for years to come.

6/17/2024 12:00:00 AM

From the beginning of our relationship, my husband and I bonded on our love of exploring and traveling to new places. Whether it was an hour-long road trip or a plane ride to a new part of the country, we knew that once we started a family it was important to both of us to share our love of traveling with our kids. Our firstborn son came into this world with difficulty. A 14-day stay in the NICU would uncover our son's brain bleed, and we were told that he would likely have a challenging life.

6/11/2024 12:00:00 AM

Being a wheelchair user doesn't stop me from loving music and wanting to see my favorite bands and singers perform. I love live music! There is just something about being in that crowd of people who all share the same love and passion for the performer on stage. Concerts give me a burst of energy and good vibes throughout my soul. But finding wheelchair accessible seats at concerts can come with plenty of challenges. Let's talk about this process and learn more about how to make it easier to go to a concert in a wheelchair!

5/7/2024 12:00:00 AM

Recreational wheelchairs play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for people with mobility challenges. However, obtaining the right wheelchair can be financially challenging. Fortunately, numerous funding options and resources exist to help people acquire these specialized chairs.

4/30/2024 12:00:00 AM

One of the things I've learned from working as a mentor for the past two years is that the mentor-peer relationship is symbiotic; each party benefits in different ways. For the peer, they get to learn helpful tips and tricks for living with paralysis from someone who is similar to them. They also get to see someone continue to build a fulfilling life after sustaining such a life-altering injury. As a mentor, I benefit from this relationship by feeling as if I'm making a difference.

4/16/2024 12:00:00 AM

When something like a traumatic life experience happens, your mindset can be altered or influenced in many different directions. Oftentimes someone has a much larger perspective on life after a traumatic life experience because so much life has been lived in a short amount of time. The person starts to see more than just the "normal" way of life; they start to see everything that affects their daily living activities.

4/2/2024 12:00:00 AM

Acquiring a new vehicle for the family is daunting task, even in the simplest of times. Mix in the complicating factor of a family member with a motor control disability, and several additional concerns must be addressed. This article will deal with the scenario where the family member is able to transfer from a wheelchair to the vehicle with or without assistance, and all of the complexities of that transportation issue.

3/19/2024 12:00:00 AM

If you live with a disability like I do, the ability to drive your own car plays a crucial role in maintaining your autonomy and freedom. Making informed choices about adaptive technologies and modifications is key to enhancing the driving experience.

11/28/2023 12:00:00 AM

If you are a power wheelchair user and you haven't had an opportunity to try power seat elevation, I highly recommend it! I literally can't say enough wonderful things about being able to raise up with my wheelchair, and wow, what a difference it has made in my life.

11/13/2023 12:00:00 AM

If you've ever considered being a little more adventurous but just weren't sure what options you may have as a wheelchair user, the following ideas are just for you. So buckle your seatbelt and get those wheels ready, because you are in for the time of your life!

2/28/2022 12:00:00 AM

I have had some amazing experiences thanks to the use of a wheelchair, without which I would've been at home lying in my bed. Let me tell you about wheelchairs that can go in the water, roll in sand, go through the woods, and even over cobblestones in Europe.

11/30/2021 12:00:00 AM

With these all-terrain chairs, you could roll on the beach, go hiking on rugged trails, or enjoy a night in the desert. The options truly are limitless! Here are three awesome all-terrain wheelchairs to consider if you'd like to seriously upgrade your adventures.

10/5/2021 12:00:00 AM

You may not believe it, but about 19% of the American population has a disability. Taking on the role of caregiver to a loved one with a disability is a kind, though challenging, pursuit. It can be difficult to know where to start, let alone how to get help along the way. Here are six tips for keeping the loved one you are for happy and healthy.

9/21/2021 12:00:00 AM

Recovery after an amputation is a complex process that confronts patients with sadness, anger, and frustration. This is why friends and family must know how to help recently amputated people adjust to their new life.

9/7/2021 12:00:00 AM

I don't have to be the one to tell you, but being in a wheelchair can sometimes be a bit challenging. No, I'm not being a "Debbie Downer," let's just be real. Not all curbs have curb cuts, not all restaurants have a ramp to get inside, and rolling down a sidewalk can all too often lead to a drop-off to a rain-soaked flowing waterway. So, how can we as wheelchair users find positivity even in difficult situations? Well, read further and let's change our thoughts and mindsets.

8/10/2021 12:00:00 AM

Adaptive clothing is designed to help those who have difficulty dressing due to disabilities as well as those with sensory issues who may find regular clothing uncomfortable or painful. Health conditions can impair someone's ability to dress themselves, most especially if the fine motor skills needed to operate buttons and zippers are reduced. Sensory processing issues can make seams and tags that others might not even notice unbearable to other people.

7/27/2021 12:00:00 AM

Summer is officially in full swing and I couldn't be more excited. After all, last year at this time, I was sitting in my house binging Netflix and scared to go outside. It's certainly been an interesting year and a half for us all, but with more and more vaccinations rolling out and things starting to get somewhat back to normal, I'm determined to make this the best summer ever!

7/13/2021 12:00:00 AM

Life as a wheelchair user is weird sometimes, no doubt. If you ask any wheelchair user, I guarantee that they have been asked at least one of these questions at some point in their life. Here are seven of the wildest things that I have been asked as a wheelchair user, how I actually responded, and how my usually sarcastic self would like to respond next time I'm asked that question.

6/8/2021 12:00:00 AM

Shortly after I graduated from college, a pilot program called Consumer Directed Attendant Support Services was launched in Colorado. It's a Medicaid-based program which provides me with a monthly budget that I use to manage my own caregivers.

3/16/2021 12:00:00 AM

I'd love to share five things that I loved about 2020. I realize how fortunate I am to even be able to say that, considering that more than 400,000 Americans have died due to the pandemic, but I want to take a few minutes to let go of the bad and focus on the good in 2020.

1/19/2021 12:00:00 AM

I am writing this article as a woman who has Cerebral Palsy and mainly uses a power wheelchair to travel around. I remember as a young girl (and even still today at times) feeling so inadequate looking at images of women in the media that didn't look like me. Our perception of self can be influenced by so many outside forces. And I know women and men and those who identify outside of gender norms (both disabled and non-disabled) can also feel inadequate when looking at some media images of different bodies. But it is important to remember that every body is unique and beautiful.

12/15/2020 12:00:00 AM

As a person with cerebral palsy (CP), I physically struggle with certain activities because of the way the neurological connection between my brain and my body is severed. But instead of focusing on my main symptoms, I would like to spend some time to discuss some of the quirks or distinct behaviors that you may see me do as a result of my CP.

11/17/2020 12:00:00 AM

When it comes to designing public spaces, there's a new idea that's being incorporated called "universal design." This term is used to describe a public or private space that is completely accessible for all, meaning anyone and everyone can fully use the space. This is a general concept, but it use a range of accessible elements to provide a space everyone can use without needing to adapt, add, or remove any element to make it inclusive and accessible.

10/20/2020 12:00:00 AM

When the nights start to get cooler and the leaves begin changing, it can be exciting to get out and explore the new landscape. Autumn activities are always a thing to celebrate, whether that's going out for a seasonal coffee or planning a whole day outdoors in the crisp autumn air. These seven autumn activities are wheelchair-friendly and require very little preparation to make the day a fun one.

10/6/2020 12:00:00 AM

Staying healthy as an immunocompromised person comes with its challenges, but with a few small changes and new habits you can live a healthy life. These seven tips will help keep your immune system healthy throughout the year, both by helping you care for yourself and helping you practice safe interactions with others.

9/22/2020 12:00:00 AM

During this time of self-isolation, you may find yourself with more free time at home. While this situation can be overwhelming and you may find it difficult to be productive at home, these seven fun and accessible things to do are perfect for filling some free time, and are great options for spending a few minutes before work or winding down after work.

5/5/2020 12:00:00 AM

I applied for vocational rehabilitation services when I decided to go to college and learned that my state's vocational rehab would pay for disabled driver training courses. So in the summer of 2000 I decided to apply and have my first driving experience.

2/25/2020 12:00:00 AM

Life with a disability is full of challenges, not the least of which are financial. According to the National Financial Capability Study, people with disabilities are more likely to be unbanked, earn less than $35,000 a year, and have trouble paying their bills. While these short-term financial problems are troubling, perhaps the biggest financial obstacle facing most individuals is saving for the future. The struggle to balance planning for retirement and long-term care whilst also focusing on immediate financial needs is challenging to say the least.

2/4/2020 12:00:00 AM

Luckily, the digital age has made it a bit easier to do a lot of the research without needing to leave the comfort of your own living room. Websites have not only made it easier to find available homes in your area, but available accessible homes (we'd like to thank our influencers for helping to spread the need for such features).

1/21/2020 12:00:00 AM

Everyone wants to live their best lives, but that's especially true when a new year, and a new decade, rolls around. This year, you'll be setting attainable goals and taking steps to achieve them while also making time to support yourself and your wellness. Set yourself up for success by taking the time to reflect, reevaluate, and make adjustments throughout the year. And don't forget to dream big with your bucket list!

12/31/2019 12:00:00 AM

There's no doubt that social media has changes us, and there's no going back. While I won't comment on whether that change has been for the better or worse, I do believe there have been several positive aspects of social media as it relates to the disability community. Social media has not only allowed us to connect with others in the community in a way we've never been able to before, but it has also given a platform to voices otherwise not heard.

12/10/2019 12:00:00 AM

The holiday season is the perfect time to gather your favorite people together and host a party. Planning the perfect holiday party can easily feel overwhelming, as there are so many moving parts, from the location and guest list to the theme, menu, and entertainment. This simple guide will help you plan the perfect holiday party in easy-to-manage steps.

12/3/2019 12:00:00 AM

It's that time of year when a crisp chill hits the air and pumpkin spice fills our nostrils. The fall harvest yields a lot of fun activities for families, including hay rides, pumpkin decorating, caramel apples, and much more. Before embarking on your next autumn adventure, check out these five tips for ensuring a fun and exciting day for all.

10/22/2019 12:00:00 AM

Some people may get turned off by the term "bucket list," but the reality is that most people do have a bucket list, even if they haven't written it down yet. Creating a bucket list can be a great way to focus your thoughts & intentions and find some direction in your life. Bucket lists can be very specific or very broad, depending on what you'd like to accomplish and how quickly you'd like to achieve each accomplishment.

10/8/2019 12:00:00 AM

In my experience, living with a disability can be challenging. One of my most daunting limitations is having to rely on others for transportation. Sometimes it can be difficult to coordinate with my family, as I have to be conscious of everyone's schedule. That in turn affects my social life. Given my experiences, I wanted to look into some of the accessible transport options available throughout the state of Florida. My motive is not only to educate myself on the available options, but to serve as a resource to anyone who might be looking for accessible transportation.

10/1/2019 12:00:00 AM

I made it to Arizona! Hello, sunshine and palm trees! While it was great to finally be back, there was a lot of work to do to get settled in my new home. Among the things I had to get done were: training a whole new set of caregivers, completing my care schedule (I didn't have enough care throughout the day), and most importantly, getting my insurance situation settled.

6/11/2019 12:00:00 AM

I am a nomad. Since 2013, I have changed my home address five times, from Arizona to Minnesota, to New Hampshire, and back to Arizona. Growing up in a military household may shed some light on why I can't stay in one place for too long. Out of everyone in my family, I move the most. Out of everyone in my family, I should move the least. Having a disability typically requires extra planning for everything, and moving is no different. However, the allure of exciting job opportunities and my insatiable hunger for exploration compels me to remain unsettled.

5/28/2019 12:00:00 AM

Disabled Access Day, March 16th, is a day celebrated by places and spaces all over the UK and beyond. The day started in 2015 as a day to celebrate accessibility and to create opportunities for people to try new things in a fun and welcoming environment.

3/5/2019 12:00:00 AM

With the holiday season upon us, Live Quickie wanted to provide some solutions that could help take the hassle out of your holidays. We've singled out some of the most stressful parts of the holiday season and came up with corresponding solutions so that you can better enjoy the season.

12/4/2018 12:00:00 AM

First of all, as a general rule for anyone, DON'T STARE. But please, whatever you do, DON'T STARE AT PEOPLE IN WHEELCHAIRS. I personally hate it when people stare at me. When people stare at me it makes me feel like I am different when I am really not so different than you.

7/31/2018 12:00:00 AM

Rochester Accessible Adventures formed in 2015 exactly because of these two realities. We know: a) people with disabilities and their families are not enjoying the positive health benefits (social, emotional, physical, and mental) of recreation opportunities in their communities, and b) recreation businesses are not equipped with the knowledge and resources to be able to open their doors to people with disabilities and their family and friends on a daily basis.

6/26/2018 12:00:00 AM

Today is an important day: World Environment Day. Today we will be reminded of the issues facing our environment and we will be encouraged to work to keep the planet safe for a better future. Here at Sunrise Medical, we strive to embrace sustainability and make it a part of our business every day, not just once a year. We believe it is important to remember that what's good for the environment is also right for business and that, both individually and collectively, we can make a positive impact when working toward a common cause.

6/5/2018 12:00:00 AM

Through many failed attempts at being normal or the same, I've learned one major thing: being the same is so overrated. My mother even said to me one time, "Vahen, if you didn't have some drama in your life to content with, you'd be bored." She was definitely telling me that I was different, but I wanted to make a difference!

4/3/2018 12:00:00 AM

If you ask me about my journey of being a person with a disability, I will tell you that it's not always been easy, but I am going further emotionally, spiritually, and physically than I ever thought possible. Having the courage to face my fears and keep pushing forward, has led me to some of the most amazing experiences and the fulfillment of my wildest dreams.

12/12/2017 12:00:00 AM

I did it! I moved out! And hey, I actually survived! This last month has been an absolute whirlwind of emotion but the storm finally seems to be calming as I'm settling into my new place. Here's a look in my journal after my first day and first week in my apartment.

9/26/2017 12:00:00 AM

It was in that moment when I decided it was time. I am ready. I need to learn to drive, not only for the sake of all those wonderful cheeseburgers waiting, but for my own sake. My injury allows me a bit more independence than some, so what is stopping me? Absolutely nothing.

8/15/2017 12:00:00 AM

From being a social butterfly in college, to being named "Smiles" in rehab, I gained a new perspective on life that can be summed up by a Bruce H. Wilkinson quote: "People often feel that because they are afraid of something, they do not have the courage to conquer it. However, courage is not the absence of fear; rather it's choosing to act in spite of fear." The joy I've experienced as a result of conquering my fears has been incredible, and I no longer see myself as physically disabled, but physically able.

8/8/2017 12:00:00 AM

All too often, the mobility options that we know will make our lives easier are not covered by insurance or Medicare. This means paying cash out-of-pocket, and not everyone can afford that.

8/1/2017 12:00:00 AM

Moving out from your parents' home is a rite of passage for almost everyone. For some, they can't wait to get out there on their own. Others prefer to stay as long as possible until their parents force them out. For people with severe physical disabilities like me, moving out may seem impossible. For some of those people like me, it can be done!

4/18/2017 12:00:00 AM