Issuu

S P R I N G /S U M M E R 2 02 2

victor calise making new york city the most accessible city in the world

Presented by

Spend a Day in

Disabled But

alex johnson wants to make a difference

meet wesley hamilton

My Wheels

Not Really

Honor

HEARTS

Excellence Accountability

Respect

Service

Teamwork

Our values create a community that is stronger together. We believe it’s an HONOR to live, work, and laugh alongside people who love and support each other — no matter what.

We believe in the pursuit of EXCELLENCE within ourselves and each other. It’s improving ourselves a little at a time while lifting each other up.

We believe ACCOUNTABILITY equals community. We promise to never let ourselves or those we care about give up – failures do not define us, but make us stronger.

We believe

RESPECT

means more than just good manners.

We believe no one should have to face their challenges alone. TEAMWORK isn’t just working together to do better — it’s working

together to be better.

It’s an expression of love and believing every human being deserves to be treated like one.

We believe a spirit of genuine, compassionate SERVICE is embedded into who we are. It means being there when our neighbors need us and doing our best to make their lives better, starting today.

SPRING/SUMMER 2022

contents FEATURES

INFORM

12 how to survive the new

equipment process Ordering new equipment can be a lengthy process. This overview aims to make the process more transparent and easier to navigate.

16 going beyond

A Paralympic athlete and former Commissioner of the New York City Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, Victor Calise is committed to an active life filled with sports, adventures and advocacy.

22 easy as 1, 2, 3

Home accessibility expert Cindi Petito offers three costeffective ways to make your home more accessible.

14 made to move

Get to know The Able Fables Co., a children’s book series that normalizes disability and diversity. PLUS: Keywing, beach wheelchairs, and Airbnb accessibility.

24 more than an

inconvenience Learn how the supply chain crisis is affecting the CRT industry and what’s being done to help.

on the go and at home Discover products—from portable ramps to stair lifts— that allow you to explore your favorite city or your own backyard with ease.

EMPOWER 9 make your

voice heard We need your help to ensure telehealth services are permanently authorized!

10 future focused

Celebrating Five Years of the NSM Thought Leadership Committee.

DEPARTMENTS

INSPIRE 4 heart to heart

From athletes to advocates, we’re inspired by these people living their lives to the fullest.

27 a future of

possibilities Get to know four organizations that help people of all abilities enjoy the outdoors.

30 on the move

Wesley Hamilton is devoted to empowering others through Disabled But Not Really, a nonprofit with a focus on nutrition, fitness and mental health.

2 ceo's note 34 washington in a wheelchair 36 let's get social 40 leading your best life

CONTRIBUTORS

Kelly Dawson is a writer, editor, and disability advocate based in Los Angeles. Her work has been featured in a wide range of publications. kellymdawson.com

Lindsay Tuman lives in New Jersey, where she works as a psychotherapist. She is currently working toward obtaining her clinical license for social work. She advocated for disability rights as Ms. Wheelchair New Jersey 2020-2021.

Cover Photo: Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Sonali Gupta is a freelance writer, editor and occasional speaker. A native of New Jersey, Sonali now divides her time between Mumbai and New York, where she is completing a master’s in journalism at New York University. sonaliguptawriter.com

Rosie Dunn is a senior at the University of Notre Dame from Nashville, Tennessee. She shares about her life as a student and her travels around the world on her blog and Instagram account. RosieRoaming.com

Live Your Best Story Being active is an important part of living a healthy, full life. Whether that’s enjoying the beauty of nature on a hike, playing your favorite sport or advocating for yourself and others, NSM is honored to play a part in helping you live the life you want to live.

That’s why I’m excited to share this issue of Let’s Get Moving. We’re exploring what it means to live an active, full life from many perspectives. In this issue, you’ll meet former Paralympians and worldclass athletes, as well as advocates who are striving to make a difference in their own communities. In our profile of Victor Calise, you’ll meet a man who has worked diligently to make the city he loves—New York City—the most accessible city in the world during his time in city government. You’ll explore Mt. Rainier National Park and other locations in Washington State with travel writer Rosie Dunn and get to know Alex Johnson, a Tennessee teen who is working to make the world more accessible one person at a time.

I hope these stories and others in this issue encourage you, but more than that, I hope they inspire you to live your life to the fullest. At NSM, our desire is to help people achieve independence by ensuring they have access to the most advanced mobility and accessibility solutions available. Simply put, we’re at our best when you’re living your best story.

Sincerely,

Bill Mixon Chief Executive Officer, National Seating & Mobility

Let’s Get Moving Vol. 2, No. 1 Spring/Summer 2022 Editorial Director Stephanie Buckley Vice President, Marketing National Seating & Mobility

Editor Mandy Crow Alday Public Relations

Content Development Alday Public Relations 305 Seaboard Lane, Suite 309 Franklin, TN 37067 615-791-1535 aldaypr.com

Creative Development & Design 5by5 Agency 5210 Maryland Way, Suite 200 Brentwood, TN 37027 615-595-6391 5by5agency.com

Let’s Get Moving is published by National Seating & Mobility, North America’s largest provider of comprehensive mobility solutions. Have a suggestion or interested in writing for the magazine? Send your ideas and writing samples to Mandy Crow, editor, at 305 Seaboard Lane, Suite 309, Franklin, TN 37067 or mandy@aldaypr.com.

National Seating & Mobility 302 Innovation Way, Suite 500 Franklin, TN 37067 nsm-seating.com

2 | Let’s Get Moving

Dependent Mobility Tilt: Reviewing Options

LEARN MORE

TRULY TRANSPORTABLE TILT There are a variety of clinical benefits and justifications as to why a client may need tilt as an option on his wheelchair, including: improving posture, aiding functional activities and interaction, allowing for weight shifts and position changes, helping with redistributing pressure from the pelvis to the trunk, improving respiratory status, aiding digestion, etc. In Sunrise Medical's portfolio of products, we offer tilt-in-space wheelchairs with dynamic or static tilt. Dynamic tilt allows for the seat of the wheelchair to be tilt fluidly throughout a specific range. For example, a ZIPPIE IRIS with 55 degrees of tilt allows for the user to be positioned at -5° to 50° or 0° to 55° dynamically via activation of the tilt mechanism. A wheelchair with static tilt, such as the ZIPPIE Sphynx, allows for adjustments in the tilt angle to be made in increments, and remain set at either 10°, 20°, or 30°.

Additional considerations to keep in mind besides determining if the client neeeds a tilt-in-space wheelchair with dynamic or static tilt, include: •

Seating components to provide optimal positioning and support from head to toe

•

Need for a reclining back

•

Style of dynamic tilt mechanism: fixed pivot point vs. rotation in space

•

Transport options: ability to be folded for transport in trunk and/or crash tested for occupant transit

•

Need for functional add-ons to the wheelchair such as a vent tray, IV pole, storage baskets, canopy, etc

For more information, visit sunrisemedical.com

we wou ld like to than k su n rise medical for sponsoring this article .

www.SunriseMedical.com

Heart to Heart personal stories that inform, inspire and empower

CREATING CHANGE At 16 years old, Alex Johnson is already working to make the world more accessible. The key, he says, is opening people’s eyes to what it’s really like to use a wheelchair, from navigating heavy doors and steep ramps to reaching the top shelf in the grocery store.

4 | Let’s Get Moving

Alex Johnson photo credit Kathy Edson-Permobil Foundation

“I got the idea for Spend a Day in My Wheels when I was in fifth grade,” Alex recalls. “I just really wanted people to understand the struggle and what it’s like to live life in a wheelchair, and I wanted to help make it better.” With the help of his dad, Nathan, and the Permobil Foundation, Alex created Spend a Day in My Wheels. Armed with 15 manual wheelchairs, Alex challenges legislators, classmates, businesses—anyone who’s up for the challenge—to spend a day navigating life in a wheelchair. “We give them a set list of tasks we want them to complete,” Alex says. “We definitely want them to visit the bathroom and try accessible parking. If it’s an office, we want them to go to the break room and get coffee. At schools, we challenge them to go through the lunch line or visit the vending machines. The goal is for them to figure out how to do very simple tasks that are more difficult from a wheelchair.”

“My goal is to advocate, to help people reach a better understanding of accessibility needs and make a change.”

Friendship Christian student participant reaches for a drink. Photo by Nathan Johnson

Since beginning Spend a Day in My Wheels in 2018, the Johnsons have conducted 18 programs throughout the Middle Tennessee area, from students at Alex’s school to members of the Nashville Predators staff. Over the years, Alex has noticed a few common themes emerge in the issues participants’ face. “The restroom is always a big issue, getting in the stall or getting to the toilet,” Alex says. “At offices and schools, heavy doors can cause problems because they’re hard to open and close quickly. Throw rugs can get wrapped up in a wheel or create a huge hump you can’t get over.” While many of Alex’s Spend a Day in My Wheels challenges take place in buildings that meet Americans with Disability Act (ADA) requirements, the exercise often helps participants recognize difficulties wheelchair users face even in ADA-compliant spaces. “If a ramp is too steep, people might have to lock the brakes on the wheelchair and rest or have someone help them get up it,” Alex says. “Sometimes even things that are designed with wheelchair users in mind are not well executed.”

By helping people experience firsthand the challenges wheelchair users face on a daily basis, Alex and Nathan hope Spend a Day in My Wheels helps to create change. “My goal is to advocate, to help people reach a better understanding of accessibility needs and make a change,” Alex says. “Ramp access, bathroom stalls that are truly accessible, and insurance policies around getting a new chair—I want to educate people and help them really understand what needs to be corrected.”

Take the Challenge Alex and the Permobil Foundation have found that once someone spends a day in a wheelchair, they better understand the challenges of living in a world made for walking. If you know of a business or school that would like to participate in the Spend a Day in My Wheels Challenge, visit permobilfoundation.org/ spend-a-day-in-my-wheels for more information.

Participants of the very first “Spend a Day In My Wheels” wheelchair challenge. Friendship Christian School. Photo by Aaron Sain Members of the Tennessee House of Representatives participating in Spend a Day In My Wheels Photo by Nathan Johnson

Let’s Get Moving | 5

BEAUTY & GRACE How Cheryl Angelelli is helping more people fall in love with dancing Wheelchair ballroom dancer. Paralympic swimmer. Model. Dog mom. You could write a story from Cheryl Angelelli’s Instagram profile alone. A world-class wheelchair ballroom dancer and a Paralympic medalist, Angelelli helped to found Dance Mobility, a wheelchair dancing program that offers dance lessons to adults and children with disabilities in the Detroit area. A lifelong athlete, Angelelli started competitive swimming when she was 8 years old. At 14, while learning a new racing dive with her swim team, she broke her neck. As a C-6 quadripalegic, Angelelli found herself learning to navigate life in a wheelchair—and figured her dreams of swimming in the Olympics were over. “I pretty much thought that my swimming career was over at that point, and I just focused on my studies and the rehab process,” Angelelli recalls. In 1996, Angelelli, then working as a journalist, traveled to Atlanta to cover the 1996 Paralympics. She’d heard about the Paralympics, but she didn’t understand the elite level of the competition until she saw it for herself. She set a goal to make the U.S. swim team and compete at the Paralympics in 2000. “That was probably a little naive because I had to learn to swim in a completely different body,” she says. But Angelelli, ranked as one of the top 10 swimmers in the world at the time, made the 2000 Paralympic swim team—then competed in the 2004 and 2008 Games. In 2014, Angelelli, now a two-time silver and bronze medalist, retired from competitive swimming. But she couldn’t stay away from competition for long. “It left a huge void in my life,” she says. “I was looking for another competitive outlet, a recreation outlet, and para dance was something I knew about, so I called around to various dance studios, but no one really knew what to do with me.”

“It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the sport.”

A chance encounter at a speaking event led to a discovery: a nearby Fred Astaire dance studio had hired a new instructor with experience teaching wheelchair ballroom dancing. Angelelli signed up. “It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the sport,” Angelelli says. “It’s just so much fun and so different from swimming.”

6 | Let’s Get Moving

She loved dancing so much she wanted to find a way to share it with more people. Armed with an idea, Angelelli approached the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan Foundation with a request to start a wheelchair ballroom dancing program—and Dance Mobility was born. “I was awarded a grant to start Dance Mobility in 2015,” she recalls. “It really started as a wheelchair ballroom dancing program, but we opened it up to amputees who use a prosthetic. We’ve done classes for stroke survivors. It’s really become an adaptive dance program for anyone with a physical disability.”

2020 to help instructors at Fred Astaire studios across the country start their own Dance Mobility programs. To date, she’s helped to kickstart programs in Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana with plans for more. But no matter your skill level or desire, Angelelli says Dance Mobility has a lot to offer. “Some people who come to Dance Mobility want to compete internationally, and some just come for the recreational aspect,” she says. “Whether you’re interested in competing or you just want to dance recreationally, there’s a place for you at Dance Mobility.” | dancemobility.org

Since 2015, Angelelli and her dance partner, Tamerlan Gadirov, have competed on the national and international stage, often against standing couples, with great success. All the while, she has remained committed to serving as a para dance ambassador, forming her own company in

RODEO READY Arabelle Laddusaw, 12, has grown up around horses. With two older siblings who competed in rodeo, it was natural that the Billings, Montana, native would want to join in. Arabelle, who was born at 28 weeks, has cerebral palsy, a condition that can affect mobility, balance and posture. While Arabelle can’t walk without assistance—she uses a walker and crutches as needed—she loves horses and can’t get enough of rodeo.

“I love rodeo because it makes me feel alive and forget all my worries and my CP."

“I love rodeo because it makes me feel alive and forget all my worries and my CP,” Arabelle says. “Rodeo also lets me make new friends who don’t care if I’m different. I also get to be with my horses—my best friends and soul mates!” Arabelle’s mom, Christine, a customer service representative with NSM, loves her daughter’s passion for staying active. “Rodeo is just one way Arabelle stays active,” she says. “She does wrestling at school and enjoys rock climbing. She just doesn’t give up.” For 10 weeks each summer, rodeo is Arabelle’s life. She currently competes in barrel racing and pole bending, a timed event in which a horse and rider weave around six poles arranged in a line. Until recently, Arabelle has competed in goat tail tying, a rodeo event designed for kids, even winning a buckle at one competition. “When Arabelle started rodeo, someone would lead her horse around the arena,” Christine says. “She has slowly worked up to doing everything herself.” During the summer rodeo season this year, Arabelle expects to compete in one rodeo competition per week. In addition, she usually rides her horse several times a week in preparation for competitions—and, well, just because she likes it. “She loves rodeo,” Christine says. “It’s great for her to feel the same as everyone else and not feel different. She just keeps going out there and getting better.” Let’s Get Moving | 7

Yes, You Can. Invacare has announced the new narrower version of the AVIVA STORM RX™ rear wheel drive power wheelchair. The narrow base model offers several new features compared to the standard version of the AVIVA STORM RX. •

Overall width of 22.4” – A reduction of 2”

•

Smaller seat sizes – Seat sizes as small as 11”x11” (Ultra Low Mini), a reduction of 3” vs Ultra Low Maxx

•

Lighter – Weight of the chair reduced by over 13% (45.4 lbs.)

•

Tighter turn radius – Reduced by 0.4”

To find out more about the Invacare AVIVA STORM RX Narrow Base Power Wheelchair, visit rehab.invacare.com

we wou ld like to than k invacare for sponsoring this article .

DESIGN With its sleek base, the flared front end supports use of the center mount foot platform for overall turning radius reduction, enables the legs to tuck under the chair, allows a user to get closer to their environment, and facilitates easier stand pivot transfers.

TECHNOLOGY Rehab-redefining LiNX® technology continues to enhance the set-up process with new and improved features. From pre-set programming parameters, to live wireless programming, to integration with ASL specialty controls, set-up is as simple as turning on the LiNX remote. Standard LED lighting system helps users illuminate the area in front of them.

PERFORMANCE With a short wheelbase and narrow width, the AVIVA STORM RX gives a compact base footprint for excellent maneuverability. The all-new patent-pending Invacare SureGrip™ suspension system helps provide a smooth and quiet driving experience indoors and outdoors. A rear antitipper utilizes a shock absorber to help respond to vibrations and noise, providing a smoother, quieter ride. The drive motor is pushed down for better traction as the rear anti-tipper is engaged over a bump and the front caster bearing has an elastomeric dampener to help reduce vibrations and impacts.

INVACARE® AVIVA® STORM RX™ Narrow Base Power Wheelchair Design • Technology • Performance 2” Narrower width makes it even easier to navigate obstacles and tight spaces! Fits on more vehicle lifts due to the smaller size and 45 lbs. less weight.

REHAB.INVACARE.COM ©2022 Invacare Corporation. All rights reserved. Trademarks are identified by the symbols ™ and ®. All trademarks are owned by or licensed to Invacare® Corporation or its subsidiaries unless otherwise noted. Specifications are subject to change without notification. Form No. 22-026 / Job No. 220236

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD

Ensuring Access to Telehealth for CRT During the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve gotten used to doing a lot of things from home. One positive of the pandemic is that it’s brought telehealth to the forefront.

Illustration credit: ©IStock.com/ma_rish

While telehealth isn’t new, Public Health Emergency (PHE) authorizations during the pandemic expanded the availability of telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries and others. This included authorizing physical and occupational therapists as telehealth services practitioners and making some billing codes used by physical and occupational therapists billable as telehealth services. The National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART) and the CRT Remote Service Consortium are currently petitioning the federal government to pass legislation to make those authorizations permanent. “These actions are needed to improve access, diagnosis, interventions, and outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries with significant disabilities who require CRT wheelchairs and other CRT items,” stated Donald E. Clayback, NCART Executive Director, in a letter to Congress.

Breaking Barriers A permanent authorization would help break down barriers to care, including: • Limited access to qualified practitioners that require patients to travel long distances in order to meet with clinicians with the necessary expertise; • Transportation challenges; • Threat of exposure to viruses or other health risks for individuals with compromised or weakened immune systems, respiratory difficulties and comorbidities; and • Physical challenges, such as anxiety, fatigue and pain exacerbated by long travel times, lengthy evaluations, equipment trials and more.

Take Action In March 2021, the Expanded Telehealth Act (H.R. 2168) was introduced in the House of Representatives. The bill has gained bipartisan support, but has not moved out of committee. The House legislation closely aligns with a similar bill introduced in the Senate in early November 2021. The Expanded Telehealth Access Act (S.3193) will expand reimbursement for telehealth services to physical therapists, audiologists, occupational therapists and speech language pathologists. Unless Congress acts to pass this legislation, access to these CRT services via telehealth will end when the PHE declaration expires. Make your voice heard by emailing your Members of Congress by visiting protectmymobility.org. Let’s Get Moving | 9

Future Focused Celebrating Five Years of The NSM Thought Leadership Committee Change doesn’t just happen. While one voice can start a movement, it often takes the intentional focus of a team to ensure ideas become realities. That’s been the focus of the National Seating & Mobility (NSM) Thought Leadership Committee since its inception five years ago.

What It Is Formed in 2018, the NSM Thought Leadership Committee is composed of professionals representing a number of industry-related organizations as well as NSM ATPs and executives. The group meets monthly to discuss critical issues and advance objectives in response to identified needs. Recent high-priority projects have included funding options for essential technology enhancements and standard documentation for order submission. While committee members acknowledge they are part of a larger movement, they do believe their efforts and focus have helped to create momentum that will lead to greater change. “Without the work of this committee, issues such as seat elevation, wheelchair standards, client outcomes, standard payer approval process and more may not have moved forward like they have,” said Bill Mixon, NSM CEO. “We’re excited to play a small role in this progress and look forward to continuing this work.”

“Participating in the Thought Leadership Committee has given me insight into issues that stand between wheelchair riders and optimal outcomes. Committee members have taught me why industry problems exist … and they’ve also identified ways forward.” L AU R I E WATA N A B E , E XEC U TIV E ED ITO R M O B I LIT Y M A N AG EM ENT M AGA ZI N E

10 | Let’s Get Moving

What’s Next As the NSM Thought Leadership Committee heads into its sixth year, members are focusing their attention on several critical issues they hope to help advance. These include: • Encouraging and equipping CRT users to become their own best advocates; •

Advocating for optimal outcomes for CRT users, including the medical necessity of power tilt, recline, elevating/ articulating legrests, and seat elevation;

•

Taking steps to mentor the next generation of ATPs; and more.

“Participating in the Thought Leadership group is important and meaningful to me. Given this particular group is within a corporate organization, ideas and issues can more readily be considered and supported to improve how we provide services.” M A R K R . SC H M ELER , P H D, OTR /L , ATP U N IV ERS IT Y O F PIT TS B U RG H D I R EC TO R O F CO NTI N U I N G ED U C ATI O N

Who’s Who

NSM’s Thought Leadership Committee includes:

COMING SOON

The Orion Group, President

COMING SOON

Stephanie Buckley

Articulating Articulating Foot Platform Foot Platform

Vice President Marketing & Communications

Gerry Dickerson NSM ATP Northeast Region, NRRTS President

John Goetz Bridge Public Affairs, Senior Vice President

Tonya Hammatt NSM Vice President Payer Relations West Region

Denise Harmon NSM ATP Central Region

David Pietrzak C

NSM Vice President Supply Chain & Vendor Management

Charles Sargeant

NSM Chief Revenue Cycle Officer

CM Y MY

Mark Schmeler

University of Pittsburgh Director of Continuing Education

CMY

Zach Stewart

NSM ATP Northeast Region

CMY

Weesie Walker NRRTS Executive Director

Laurie Watanabe Executive Editor, Mobility Management Magazine

Chris Yule NSM SVP Government Affairs

Alexis Ward

Simultaneous Simultaneous

Claudia Amortegui

Easy customization

Easy customization 10-18-inch leg length 10-18-inch leg length 8-inch articulation and extension 8-inch articulation and extension Infinite adjustment for

leg length discrepancy Infinite adjustment for leg length discrepancy

Extension AND Extension Articulation AND Articulation

Vice President National Payer Relations

“Collaborations like this are vital to ensure we can continue to be able to provide the highest level of product and service to end users.” JOHN GOETZ, B R I D G E P U B LI C A FFAI RS

MERITS HEALTH PRODUCTS, INC. MERITS HEALTH PRODUCTS, INC.

HOW TO

Survive the New Equipment Process THIS OVERVIEW AIMS TO MAKE THE PROCESS MORE TRANSPARENT—AND HOPEFULLY A LITTLE EASIER TO NAVIGATE THE NEXT TIME YOU NEED NEW EQUIPMENT.

phase one

Evaluation & Design Receive Your Assessment Your healthcare provider must write a prescription for a seating evaluation. Your Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) will work with you and your healthcare team to determine your needs and design a mobility solution.

How to Help •

Share any issues with your current equipment.

•

Give honest feedback.

•

Provide accurate information about your insurance or funding source.

Photo credit: Zachary Kyra Derksen / Unsplash

Get to Know Your Team At National Seating & Mobility (NSM), a team of specialists will guide you through the new equipment process. These knowledgeable specialists understand the intricacies of the process. While all suppliers follow a similar process, they may not offer the same level of guidance or dedicated team approach as NSM.

12 | Let’s Get Moving

Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) Certified professional who works with you and your care team to analyze your mobility needs and recommend solutions.

Customer Service Specialist (CSS) Customer service specialists support customers, answering questions and helping you stay up to date on your order.

phase two

phase three

Funding & Approval

Purchase, Assembly & Delivery

Collect and Submit Your Paperwork

Place Your Order

Your funding specialist will gather required documentation needed for prior approval. When all of the necessary information has been gathered, your funding specialist will submit your paperwork to your insurance or funding source.

After receiving approval from your insurance provider or funding source, the order is placed for your new equipment. Technicians will then assemble all components, creating your custom mobility solution. Due to supply chain issues, it may take longer than normal to receive products.

Await Insurance Approval After submitting all the required documentation, your funding specialist will follow up with your insurance provider or funding source regularly. This process could take a while—and insurance providers may deny some of your equipment or customizations.

Schedule Your Delivery and Get Moving When your equipment arrives and is ready for you, a customer service specialist (CSS), ATP and technician will work with you to schedule delivery. Your equipment may be delivered with the support of a therapist and/or in a clinic setting. Your ATP and technician will work to make any necessary adjustments and make sure you know how to use your new equipment.

How to Help •

Contact your medical provider and ask for your documentation to be expedited.

•

Call your insurance company and ask to expedite the review.

•

Appeal directly to your insurance company if you’re denied. Your team can help you resubmit.

How to Help •

Communicate changes quickly (if you move or change providers). A failure to do so could result in paying out-of-pocket.

•

Ensure your equipment meets your satisfaction before the order is finalized. Medical equipment can’t be returned, so don’t be afraid to speak up!

Therapist

Funding Specialist

Physical or occupational therapists experienced in mobility equipment evaluations who understand your health situation and needs.

An expert who will coordinate the entire funding process from beginning to end, working to gather, complete and submit all necessary documentation to your insurance provider or funding source— and support you in the event of a denial.

Technician Healthcare Provider Your physician, who understands your overall health needs.

When your equipment is ready, your ATP and technician will work to make any necessary adjustments and answer your questions.

Let’s Get Moving | 13

The Able Fables ® children’s book series exists to celebrate and normalize disability and diversity through morally-rich, rhythmic storytelling.

You’ll meet a new character in every story, as they follow their dreams and learn a valuable lesson. At the end of each book, 10 real children who share a similar disability or diagnosis as the main character are featured, encouraging guardians to start conversations about disability inclusion with their children. The series was created by Dr. Nicole Julia—author, occupational therapist, and advocate for a more inclusive, universally designed world. Join The Able Fables in raising awareness for a more inclusive world @theablefables on social media. Books are available for purchase at theablefables.com

20% of profits from The Able Fables book series help build inclusive playgrounds across the USA. To date, The Able Fables® has donated over $25,000 to inclusive playgrounds.

14 | Let’s Get Moving

Use Keys with Ease

©IStock.com/KenWiedemann; Ethan Dow / Unsplash

The Keywing is handy for anyone, and essential for those with arthritis or weakness in their hands. The comfortable grips keep you from struggling or dropping your keys—and cuts the strength required to turn a key in half. | thekeywing.com

Beach Access Did you know many coastal areas have options for renting beach wheelchairs? Simply search "beach wheelchair rental" online to find what's available near you. Fully experience a day at the beach with loved ones—with the freedom to cruise across the sand, along the tide or on the boardwalk. These wheelchairs are especially designed for beach terrain, giving you mobility and comfort.

airbnb is working to make it easier for people with disabilities and other accessibility needs to travel. advanced filters on their website allow guests to search for listings with a wide entrance, a place with no stairs or steps, disabled parking access, or other accessibility features . consider airbnb as you make travel plans this year. airbnb .com/accessibility

Photo Courtesy of Airbnb

Photo: Metropolitan Transportation Authority

by sonali gu pta

16 | Let’s Get Moving

how victor calise is working to make new york city the most accessible city in the world

Victor Calise is no stranger to competition. Whether he was playing touch football as a kid in the streets of New York or sled hockey in the Paralympics, Commissioner Calise has continually challenged himself to excel at any task at hand. Calise, 50, was appointed Commissioner of the New York City Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities during the Bloomberg and de Blasio administrations. After 15 years in the position, which allowed him to advocate for the disabled community across the city, Calise recently took on a new role: Director of Global Culture, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Walmart's newly formed Accessibility Center of Excellence. Whatever his job, Calise wants to be an advocate, while also working to instill a competitive spirit in young people. “[Vic] helped me as I made the jump from youth to adult sled hockey,” Paralympic Gold Medalist Josh Paul says. “He was a mentor that pushed me to be my best.”

“He was a mentor that pushed me to be my best.”

Let’s Get Moving | 17

FROM PLUMBER TO PARALYMPIAN Victor Calise never expected to work in the Mayor’s Office or lead a career in public policy. Growing up in Ozone Park, Queens, Calise came from a long line of blue collar workers where he also worked as a plumber. “I was destined to be a blue collar worker until I was injured in a bicycle accident,” he says. A 1994 mountain biking accident left a 22-year-old Calise paralyzed from the waist down.

Sports offered Calise more than just physical fitness; it gave him an opportunity to bond with other disabled athletes and develop a healthy, active mindset. Calise formed a fast friendship with sled hockey teammate Anthony Fitzgerald. Together, they made national teams and eventually competed in the 1998 Paralympic Games in Nagano, Japan, as part of the U.S. National Sled Hockey Team. “The Paralympics taught me about discipline and teamwork,” Calise says. “Advocacy came about because I wanted to make sure the local program I was involved with was run by people with disabilities for people with disabilities.”

18 | Let’s Get Moving

It wasn’t until a physical therapist handed Calise an issue of Sports N Spokes, a magazine highlighting adaptive sports news and recreation, that he discovered sled hockey. Determined to learn more, Calise found an adaptive center in Long Island where he quickly excelled at the sport and joined a local team.

PARKS AND RECREATION A chance meeting in the early 2000s jumpstarted Calise’s career in public policy. “I attended a meeting for the NYC 2012 Olympic bid and I sat next to this man. I said ‘Hi, I’m Victor Calise,’ and he said, ‘Hi, I’m Adrian Benepe,’ and it took me a couple of seconds before I realized who he was…he was the Commissioner of the Parks Department, NYC Parks and Recreation. We got to talking and I said, ‘You know, it’d be wonderful if NYC stepped up to the plate and did something for PwDs. I’ve been to Philadelphia, and they’ve done some great things and that really doesn’t happen in New York City. We really need to change that,’” Calise recalls. Shortly after, Calise was hired as the first Accessibility Coordinator for New York City Department of Parks & Recreation. It was there he aimed to create an inclusive and accessible city park system, one of the largest and most complex parks systems in the world. Today, NYC’s park system, which includes over 30,000 acres of parks

in addition to historic centers, playgrounds and more— features facilities like accessible beaches, recreation centers and tennis courts. An aspect of the Parks Department Calise made sure not to overlook was playgrounds. His childhood was spent on New York City playgrounds where he learned essential skills: how to play, compromise, argue and be active with others. He worked hand-in-hand with the Parks Department to develop four types of playgrounds: playgrounds for all children, ramped playgrounds, playgrounds with universally accessible swings, and one with transfer platforms and ground level play features. “He brought many changes in the Parks Department by developing the ADA Transition Plan, an approach that helped identify and improve upon accessibility gaps in the system,” said Edmund Adieu, Accessibility Policy Analyst for the New York City Department of Transportation.

Photo credit: Cassandra Giraldo/The New YorkTimes/Redux

“Advocacy came about because I wanted to make sure the local program I was involved with was run by people with disabilities for people with disabilities.”

Let’s Get Moving | 19

THE FUTURE OF INCLUSIVITY Calise envisions a future where all spaces are accessible. Often, people with disabilities adapt to the environment, Calise says, but Calise is focused on a future where environments adapt to people with disabilities instead. “It’s not just about kids with disabilities—it's about parents with non-disabled kids, or parents with disabled kids, parents with strollers and grandparents who want to visit the park…you want to make that environment for everyone,” he explains. Even though he may not be competing in world sports these days, Calise continues to coach youth sports and

believes leading an active lifestyle at an early age is important. “Kids have the ability to learn quickly,” he says, “and guiding them with the right skills allows them to grow and become competitive.” He encourages people with disabilities to tap into online resources and connect virtually to learn more about competitive or recreational sports. At home, Calise and his family are always on the move. His daughters, Sophia and Lola, play sports, and Calise has occasionally doubled as both dad and coach. Calise met his wife Susan, a physical therapist, two years after his injury. A shared interest in fitness allowed for an easy connection. Their family stays active even while on vacation (his last trip involved skiing in Italy).

While living his own active life, Calise is grateful for the opportunity he's had to help make New York City the most accessible city in the world. And he’s looking forward to building inclusivity through his new role with Walmart. "I am excited about starting my role in Walmart's newly formed Accessibility Center of Excellence (ACE),” Calise says. “As the Director of Culture, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, I’ll have the opportunity to influence the already strong culture of disability inclusion that exists at Fortune #1. My goal is to directly translate this into increased employment opportunities for people with disabilities; more accessible products and shopping experiences for and by people with disabilities; and for greater visibility and inclusion of people with disabilities in every aspect of Walmart.”

Photo credit: Mark A. Hermann / MTA

"My goal is to directly translate this into increased employment opportunities for people with disabilities; more accessible products and shopping experiences for and by people with disabilities."

20 | Let’s Get Moving

Offering over 25,000 combinations of safety beds for those with Special Needs addressing physical and cognitive disabilities.

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”Just about in every state there is some adaptive sport program. “Get connected,” Calise says. Local rehab hospitals can also point you in the right direction.

CONNECT WITH ORGANIZATIONS ONLINE AND STAY MOTIVATED VIRTUALLY, IF YOU CAN.

"Everyone is in a digital world, but there are a lot of people with disabilities that have a digital divide,” Calise adds. If you have access to the internet, pick out two or three modified exercises and look up videos on ways you can do them safely at home. Take a look at websites by The Lakeshore Foundation, The Special Olympics and NYC Parks Department, that offer training and tutorial videos.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL GYM.

Don’t discount your local gyms–adaptive equipment like upper body bikes are becoming more mainstream and more gyms are including equipment that people with disabilities can use. Make sure to take a look at what your gym has to offer.

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Easier than 1, 2, 3 budget-friendly ideas for creating accessible homes by kelly dawson

Inaccessibility tends to show itself in the details, and they’re often hardest to spot at home. Since it's a place that’s filled with the flurry of daily tasks and the comfort of treasured memories, it can be hard to notice when these spaces aren’t exactly welcoming to a range of bodies. “An accessible home is for people of all ages,” says Cindi Petito, a home accessibility expert based in Jacksonville, Florida. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a child, someone with a disability, or a senior. An accessible home is a liveable one.”

MAKE SURROUNDINGS EASY TO SEE. “A lot of homes, especially older homes, don’t have enough lighting,” Petito says. Adding table lamps to living rooms, sconces beside beds, or even LED strips under kitchen cabinets can illuminate surfaces and make edges more apparent. Don’t forget about lighting outdoor pathways and entrances, too, and consider installing timers for well-trafficked areas. PLACE POPULAR ITEMS FRONT AND CENTER. “If it’s too cumbersome to prepare a meal because ingredients or tools are out of reach, then that’s dangerous physically and nutritionally,” she notes. Store everyday utensils and spices in a grab-and-go location, and put the microwave closer to the ground. In fact, this habit should be a part of every room. “The things we use and wear everyday should always be easily accessible,” Petito says.

Perhaps steps to a front door lack a railing, or there’s a bathtub with high edges. Maybe door frames are too tight for wheelchairs, or furniture is too low to the ground. Once you begin to pinpoint all the ways a home could be more accommodating, it can seem like a very long list—and an expensive one at that. Thankfully, Petito knows how to approach this task on a budget, using three solutions she describes as low-tech but high-impact. “If people can be proactive about access, it saves them the trouble of potentially being reactive later,” she says. Read on for her insights.

PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT’S ON THE FLOOR. The fastest way to remedy a home’s hazards is to ensure that there’s enough storage to keep clutter off the floor. “The first thing I think about is how to prevent falls,” she says. After that, account for other low-hanging aspects of a possible obstacle course. Is the corner of a rug turned up, or is one needed to cover a slippery surface? Is there a loose board or stone in a walkway? Keep in mind that smooth transitions are best for everyone.

22 | Let’s Get Moving

Little Wave Arc. Ahead of the curve. The latest addition to the Little Wave family, the stylish Arc is the lightest pediatric tilt-in-space wheelchair on the market.

The unique Arc Tilt System arcuate path minimizes the movement of the rider's mass for effortless repositioning. It also results in a smaller wheelbase for more consistent load distribution making it easier to push, maneuver and store in tight spaces.

SIMPLY PUT, IT'S JUST EASIER. The Little Wave Arc’s intuitive, easy-to-fold design and compact wheelbase make its folded footprint very small, a perfect fit for a family on the go. To accommodate your child for the long term, we built in plenty of growth and offer unique programs to growing kids.

Arc can be paired with Ki Mobility’s Axiom Custom Seating (ACS), which provides functional and durable seating designed for the most unique postural challenges. With a wide range of options, Axiom Custom Seating allows for the best fit and postural support for daily and long-term needs. Every rider has their own style, and we want them to have the opportunity to express themselves. Cool color choices, including 2 free color frames, and style options make each chair as unique as the child riding it. The Little Wave Arc sets the standard for convenience, style, and versatility.

Visit kimobility.com/arc to learn more.

we wou ld like to than k kimobilit y for sponsoring this article .

Let’s Get Moving | 23

More Than an Inconvenience how the supply chain crisis has affected crt user by man dy crow

Last fall, gridlock in America’s largest ports dominated news headlines. As cargo ships circled off the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach waiting to offload their cargo, many of us pondered the state of the country’s supply chain for the first time. Over the past year, the supply chain crisis has created delays and frustrations, from long waits for new furniture to the rising price of a new car. But the slowdown is more than a hassle to complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) users. The strain on the supply chain has slowed deliveries and delayed repairs and other vital services necessary to keep CRT users moving. So, what’s the problem? And, more importantly, what’s being done to fix it?

What’s the Problem? In simplest terms, a supply chain is the network between a company and its suppliers to produce and distribute a specific product to a buyer. In the CRT industry, that includes getting the finished product—the power wheelchair or seat cushion—to the user, but also making sure manufacturers have access to all the components used to create those products, everything from plastic pieces to semiconductor chips. And that, according to Darren Lowman, NSM’s Chief Supply Chain Officer, is one of the key reasons CRT users may be experiencing order delays.

The problem isn’t confined to power wheelchairs and scooters, either. Manual wheelchairs featuring natural fit and plastic-coated hand rims have also faced backorders and delays. Semiconductor chips, a vital component of any product with a power motor or actuator, are in short supply. In addition to low supply, other issues have compounded the crisis. Manufacturer labor constraints mean it takes longer to make each product or component. Meanwhile, ocean freight challenges—like the logjam of cargo ships waiting outside America’s largest ports last fall—have caused lengthy delays for items imported from Asia or other countries. A shortage of shipping containers and truck drivers combined with increased material costs and demands have exacerbated the issue.

24 | Let’s Get Moving

Photo credit: Venti Views / Unsplash

“We’ve seen the longest lead times with standard power and scooter products,” Lowman says. “Controllers and joysticks aren’t consistently available, so that’s created backorders.”

According to Lowman, the most important issue NSM and other CRT providers face is finding a way to navigate the supply chain crisis and continue to serve CRT users at the highest level. “It’s incredibly important to us to support the clinical needs of our clients,” he says “That’s why we exist. But CRT users know this isn’t a one-size-fits-all industry. Meeting clients’ clinical needs requires a lot of complexity and customization of our products. In a period of disruption like we’re facing now, it’s even more difficult for the entire supply chain to maintain service levels.”

What’s the Solution? Just as a variety of factors and circumstances have created the current supply chain crisis, there’s no one solution that will fix it. For Lowman and NSM, one short-term solution is to “better forecast” product needs to manufacturers and suppliers. “We’re focused on being a great partner for our suppliers and manufacturers by collaborating with them to better forecast our needs and ensure the timely flow of their products and parts,” he says. Lowman and NSM, along with other CRT providers, are also emphasizing clear and timely communication with clients. “We are communicating with our clients to ensure they are well informed about any backorders and timing expectations,” Lowman says. “That itself has proven to be very difficult, though, as timing expectations and estimates often change.”

What to Do If you think your recent order may have been affected by the supply chain crisis, what should you do? Track your order. Some providers offer an online status update tool where you can go to get the latest information on the status of your order. For example, the order status update tool NSM offers is mynsmorder.com. Reach out to your local provider. Give them a call to better understand where your order is in the process and to identify issues that may be causing a delay. Advocate for Yourself and Others. As supply chain challenges continue to drive inflation in CRT costs due to freight, labor and raw material/part costs, insurance considerations regarding reimbursement adjustments will become even more important. Contact your senators and representatives by visiting congress.gov.

Let’s Get Moving | 25

Permobil F5 Corpus VS

Stand for more

Changing the View on Standing Power standing is life-changing technology that’s been around for decades, so why is it still considered a convenience or luxury item? Some payers don’t cover it because the benefits of standing are not seen solely as medical in nature. Yet for many people, it is absolutely a medical, health, and preventative medicine issue. Joseph Letterio, published author and standing power wheelchair user, shared at a recent Permobil webinar: “Our bodies are not designed to be sitting all the time. You know when you're moving around, how much better you feel. Once I was able to stand in my wheelchair, I noticed substantial differences – not only psychologically and socially, but all kinds of health benefits like bone density, decreasing spasticity, spinal alignment, and for decreasing urinary tract infections.” While static standing frames are available, switching into one is often complicated and requires time, energy, and other people - as opposed to having the ability to stand built right into your wheelchair. Then it becomes your way of getting around your world.

Now available in Group 3! The F5 Corpus VS that you know and trust is now available in more funding categories with Group 3 and Group 4 base codes. This makes it more accessible than ever for individuals to pursue the functional and medical benefits of power standing.

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Ashley Detterbeck, DPT, ATP/SMS, Permobil Clinical Education Manager agrees: “We’ve really flipped the switch on the need for power standing, especially with all the research that’s been done in the last 10-15 years. This helps with some funding sources to understand that standing is not just a social convenience item – it’s a medical benefit.”

STANDING IS NOT JUST A SOCIAL CONVENIENCE ITEM — ITS A MEDICAL BENEFIT. Permobil published a white paper last year summarizing the evidence of the clinical, functional and psychosocial benefits of power standing. This research, plus input from providers, clinicians, and end users, were the driving forces of Permobil making their F5 Corpus VS standing wheelchair available in both Group 3 and Group 4 base codes. Multiple funding categories means more people can now benefit from superior power standing.

we wou ld like to than k permobil for sponsoring this article .

A FUTURE OF POSSIBILITIES GET TO KNOW FOUR ORGANIZATIONS THAT HELP PEOPLE OF ALL ABILITIES ENJOY THE OUTDOORS

by lin dsay tu man

Everyone looks for enjoyment in life. Whether you’re born with a disability or acquired one, finding opportunities to be physically active, have fun, or connect with others can sometimes seem like a challenge. We recently caught up with a few organizations that have created unique outdoor experiences designed to make living an active life easier for people of all abilities..

Let’s Get Moving | 27

SADDLE UP! A PATH International Premier Accredited Center offering six equine-assisted therapy programs for ages 2 to 26, Saddle Up! is located in Franklin, Tennessee. According to Executive Director Audrey Kidd, the program serves children and young adults with a wide range of disabilities including physical and intellectual and developmental disabilities. “Our programs encompass therapeutic and adaptive riding as well as equine assisted learning, including the opportunity to participate in annual competitions and summer camp,” she said. “Our riders come here because of the care of trained instructors and therapists, and the motivation and unwavering support of the horses. Our riders often exceed all expectations.” Now more than 30 years old, the program began with a group of four passionate volunteers and six children. Some 200 kids are expected to participate this year, Kidd says. | saddleupnashville.org

MORGAN’S WONDERLAND Located in San Antonio, Texas, Morgan’s Wonderland is the world’s first theme park designed with individuals with special needs in mind, according to Bob McCullough, communications director. The 25-acre theme park features a wheelchair-accessible Ferris wheel and other rides, sensory adventures, inclusive playgrounds, an accessible water park attraction and more. Gordon and Maggie Hartman founded Morgan’s Wonderland after watching their daughter, Morgan, who was born with cognitive and physical special needs, at a hotel swimming pool while on vacation in 2006. The couple vowed to create a place where those with and without disabilities could have fun together and interact. “Morgan is still the heart of the mission born all those years ago,” McCullough says. More than 2 million guests hailing from every state in the nation have visited the theme park since then. Morgan’s Wonderland lives up to its mission of bringing people of all abilities together to promote greater understanding and acceptance. | morganswonderland.com

TRELLIS HORTICULTURAL THERAPY ALLIANCE Trellis Horticultural Therapy Alliance in Decatur, Georgia, is based on the idea that the garden is a great place to outgrow limitations. Founders Rachel Cochran and Wendy Battaglia saw a need for therapeutic horticulture in their community. “We try to remove any stigma or barrier,” Cochran says. “We want to improve the quality of life and provide a sense of belonging and purpose.” The program holds a special place in Cochran’s heart, who has seen how gardening and interacting with nature has helped her own daughter, who sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in an accident when she was 12. In 2019, Trellis launched Ability Garden programs and completed the design and construction of a fully wheelchair accessible garden, the Ability Garden at Callanwolde in 2021. Through the support of the Craig H. Nielsen Foundation, Trellis plans to expand their existing Ability Garden programs for individuals with spinal cord injuries. | trellishta.org 28 | Let’s Get Moving

FIELD OF DREAMS The newly opened Toms River Field of Dreams, located in Toms River, New Jersey, is a 3.5 acre inclusive recreational complex where everyone can play together without limitations. Christian Kane, a teacher who played an instrumental role in creating the complex, understands the importance of equitable play due to a catastrophic car accident that injured his son, Gavin. “I want to make sure we are not leaving anyone out,” Kane says. “Play is an important part of every child’s development.” No matter your interest, Field of Dreams has it covered. The complex features a baseball field, walking path, service dog area, quiet corner, bocce court, two boardwalk game wheels and a reading area. Field of Dreams also tackles another common obstacle to living an active outdoor life: accessible bathrooms. The complex features fully accessible bathrooms complete with changing stations that hold 500 pounds. “This place allows you to be the kid you want to be or used to be,” Kane says. “It is a complex for people of all ages, whether you are 83 or three years old.” | tomsriverfieldofdreams.com

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FOR WESLEY HAMILTON, THERE’S JOY IN EMPOWERING OTHERS.

ON THE

move highlighting nonprofits that promote healthy, active lifestyles

“We want to help people create their own perspective on life so they can live the life they want to live,” says Hamilton, the founder of Disabled But Not Really (DBNR). “We help them do that through a focus on nutrition, fitness and mental health.” DBNR is a Kansas City, Missouri-based nonprofit that emphasizes the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle for people with disabilities. Hamilton developed the idea out of his own personal experience after suffering a spinal cord injury from a gunshot that left him paralyzed. “At the time of my diagnosis, I didn’t really think about accepting myself as much as getting back to the image society was comfortable with,” he says. Hamilton, who’d been overweight most of his life, enrolled in a nutrition class at a local community college and began applying what he learned. In a year’s time—while he was on bedrest 21 hours a day—Hamilton lost 100 pounds. His success fueled his passion to help others, and DBNR was born.

“WE WANT TO HELP PEOPLE CREATE THEIR OWN PERSPECTIVE ON LIFE SO THEY CAN LIVE THE LIFE THEY WANT TO LIVE.”

30 | Let’s Get Moving

LET’S GET MOVING Get to know a few more nonprofits focused on helping people live their most active lives.

Move United An affiliate of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Move United works to ensure everyone, regardless of ability, has access to sports and recreation in their communities. With 200 member organizations in 43 states, Move United is a national leader in adaptive sports, including competition, recreational and educational programs. | moveunitedsport.org

Adapt, Move & Gain Fitness U.S. Paralympian Alyssa Gialamas saw a need for more accessible workout options and sought to create the solution. With Adapt, Move & Gain (AMG) Fitness, she aims to elevate the at-home workout for people with disabilities. AMG offers three workout programs (Adapt, Move and Gain), and new workouts are added every Sunday. Based in Arlington, Virginia, Gialamas hopes to add inperson workout events soon. | amgfitness.org

SPIRIT Club Foundation Spirit Club Foundation provides grants and scholarships so people with disabilities can access programs to achieve their fitness goals. Born out of the belief that every person has a right to health, the organization’s work helps improve the physical, mental, and social/emotional health of several hundred people each year. spiritclubfoundation.org | spirit-club.com The nonprofit offers a variety of programs, including the Help Me Fit Challenge, a 10-week program that emphasizes the importance of nutrition and fitness as well as helping participants deal with identity issues. Last year, DBNR added a mobile gym as a response to COVID-19 but also as a way to educate, reach out and bring awareness. In the future, Hamilton hopes DBNR can create its own inclusive facility that can then be replicated across the country, while continuing to invest in the programs the nonprofit has already developed. “We want to continue impacting people in the communities where we have a presence and make sure that data is being collected and shared so we can implement our programs elsewhere,” he says. “More spaces. More cities. More impact.”

Do you know of an organization that promotes healthy, active lifestyles? Share it with us on social media. Find us @NSMobility on Facebook and Instagram and @MobilityNSM on Twitter.

@NSMOBILITY

@MOBILITYNSM

FAC E B O O K .CO M/N S M O B I LIT Y

Let’s Get Moving | 31

From exploring your favorite city to enjoying your own backyard, living your life to the fullest means being able to access your favorite spaces with ease. Whether that means transporting your power chair for your next adventure or simply going down stairs, several products are available to make your life a bit more accessible.

The Importance of Staying Active STAYING ACTIVE PLAYS A VITAL ROLE IN OUR PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH. CONSIDER THE BENEFITS:

Physical Benefits

Emotional Benefits

Social Benefits

Adults with disabilities are more likely to be diagnosed with heart disease, diabetes, obesity, stroke and cancer than those who don’t have mobility issues. An active lifestyle can play an important role in decreasing or slowing the progression of these health concerns.

An active lifestyle helps to relieve stress, improve sleep and increase energy levels. Remaining active—whether that means exercising or simply pursuing the activities you love most— can also boost your mood and has been shown to help ease symptoms of depression and anxiety.

When you can access the world around you with ease, it creates greater opportunities for social interaction. From joining a wheelchair basketball league to gardening, an active lifestyle creates ample opportunities to enjoy the things you love most with people who share that passion.

32 | Let’s Get Moving

ON THE

PORTABLE RAMPS

A reliable portable ramp can help make living your life to the fullest a little easier, no matter where you travel. Portable ramps come in a variety of different styles, are easy to transport for on-the-go use and are designed to work in a number of environments.

Adjustable Height

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• Journey 30-inch Adjustable Threshold (Available at 36 and 48 inches wide) • Journey 42-inch Adjustable Threshold (Available at 36 and 48 inches wide)

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½-inch Journey Fixed Threshold (Available at 36 and 48 inches wide)

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1½-inch Journey Fixed Threshold (Available at 36 and 48 inches wide)

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2-inch Journey Fixed Threshold (Available at 36 and 48 inches wide)

•

Freedom Folding Ramp (Available at lengths of 2, 3, 4 and 5 feet)

VEHICLE LIFTS Vehicle lifts allow you to fully experience life the way you want by empowering you to go wherever the road may be calling you. A number of options are available to suit your needs.

AT PLATFORM LIFTS

HOME

A platform lift allows you to access upper levels of your home without leaving your chair, providing a safe, economical and space effective solution to a wide variety of access challenges.

STAIRLIFTS Living an active life means being able to enjoy every square inch of your home,top to bottom, indoor and out. Stair lifts can be fitted to any existing staircase and offer compact, ergonomically designed options that are made to last.

•

Harmar Sierra Incline Platform Lift

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Bruno Indoor Sre-3050 Straight Stair Lift

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Let’s Get Moving | 33

ch a i r l e e h W a in

by rosie du n n

Part of living an active life is finding time to enjoy and explore the world around you. Recently, travel blogger and college student Rosie Dunn got the chance to visit Washington State in her manual wheelchair and experience all the natural wonders and unique charm the Pacific Northwest has to offer. If you’re planning a trip, don’t miss some of Rosie’s favorite experiences.

Photo credit: Joshua Peacock / Unsplash

34 | Let’s Get Moving

Explore Mt. Rainier National Park Ascending more than 14,000 feet above sea level, Mt. Rainier is an active volcano and features the most glaciers of any mountain in the continental United States with 25. But Mt. Rainier National Park is also known for its beautiful wildflowers, powerful waterfalls and world-class views. Once we got inside the park, I was able to go on the Skyline Trail, which can be accessed near the fully accessible Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise. A few portions of the Skyline Trail were too steep to do independently, but I was able to take in the views with a little help from my mom. Skyline Trail is paved to Myrtle Falls.

Ride the Gondola at Crystal Mountain Resort and Eat Lunch at Summit House Restaurant I visited during the summer, so I didn’t hit the Crystal Mountain ski slopes, but I did get to ride on the gondola! The operator slowed the gondola so I could roll on. If you need more time to get on, the operator can also stop the gondola. The Summit House Restaurant, Washington’s highest elevation restaurant, offers indoor and outdoor dining, both of which feature beautiful views of Mt. Rainier and the surrounding area.

3 Enjoy Chihuly Garden and Glass Located right next to the Space Needle in downtown Seattle, Chihuly Garden and Glass features the beautiful and quirky glasswork of artisan Dale Chihuly. The museum and garden were completely accessible, and I loved the entire experience!

Visit Kerry Park at Golden Hour For some of the best views of the Seattle skyline, go to Kerry Park to watch the sunset! It’s a popular destination—and a favorite for photographers—so be aware of that as you plan your visit. I parked on the street and rolled a short distance to the viewpoint with no issues.

Take a Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island

4 3 1

If you’re looking for even more views of Seattle, get on the water! The ferry and terminals were very accessible. We took the ferry to Bainbridge Island and sailed back to Seattle during golden hour. I was nervous about getting on and off the sailboat, but I was able to transfer easily, and we stored my chair on the boat. If you want to skip the sailing excursion, you could always take a ferry ride on its own and still enjoy the beautiful views!

Get the Pass Did you know that if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have a permanent disability, you are eligible to apply for a National Park Access Pass? This pass grants you free, lifetime access to national parks and other recreational lands. Pick it up at a federal recreation site for free or order online for $10. Learn more at nps.gov.

Let’s Get Social! nsm loves seeing your enthusiasm about products

& experiences . share your story with us today!

We love celebrating our clients’ new found mobility!

Our clients inspire us every day!

Thank you to Amelia for sharing these photos of Olive with us along with these kind words about her ATP, Zach.

“My son is 5 years old and got his first stroller today. We had a great experience with your company and have peace of mind our child will be safe during all aspects in our outings.”

Connect WITH US @NSMOBILITY

@MOBILITYNSM

FAC E B O O K .CO M/N S M O B I LIT Y

36 | Let’s Get Moving

“He's very good at telling us what will and won't be covered. He helps us figure out what to submit properly so there's no waiting on paperwork we haven't filled out correctly. He's a straight shooter. If it's not going to work for her, it won't fit, or he doesn't think we should do it yet, he's generally right. He never makes me feel like I'm wasting his time.”

We’re thankful we can help keep you moving! “Thank you so much everyone for your help in making our wedding day as magical as possible! The weather was perfect and I had a great working chair and everything else just fell perfectly in place. ”

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The Hearts of NSM Champions Ethan Krueger loves the excitement of adaptive downhill mountain bike racing. The competition, the camaraderie of riders, the joy of taking on tough trails at high speeds—he loves it all. Krueger, who sustained a spinal cord injury on “a big jump gone wrong” while mountain biking in 2010, shifted to adaptive mountain biking after his injury. He is a certified adaptive mountain biking instructor, working with the Kootenay Adaptive Sports Association. Krueger also serves on the board of the organization. A professional adaptive mountain biker, Krueger has also played an active role in bringing the sport into the mainstream. Last year, the Dunbar Summer Series, a series of three races held in British Columbia across a week, added adaptive downhill mountain biking as a professional category.

“It was a groundbreaking season for adaptive downhill mountain biking,” Krueger says. “We had our first downhill adaptive mountain biking race series sanctioned by the governing body, UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale).” In 2022, the entire British Columbia Racing Cup Circuit—which Krueger describes as a “breakthrough race season for entering international level competition”—will include adaptive downhill mountain biking as a professional category. Krueger, who’s excited to participate in races this summer, also celebrates the attention these advancements bring to the sport. For him, it’s all about making adaptive mountain biking more familiar and accessible to more people. “To see people who have been confined to pavement for years get onto the trails and take in the scenery and smell that earthy, pine smell, there’s nothing like it,” Krueger says. “There’s always a moment where they stop and take it all in because they never thought they’d be there. And that’s why it’s all worth it.”

ETHAN KRUEGER

“There’s always a moment where they stop and take it all in because they never thought they’d be there. And that’s why it’s all worth it.”

38 | Let’s Get Moving

Photo Credit: Niall Pinder @pinder_experience

R EH A B EQ U I P M ENT S P EC IA LI S T B U R N A BY, B R ITI S H CO LU M B IA , C A N A DA

Paralympic Games Atlanta 1996

WAYNE LEAVIT T Once Wayne Leavitt found tennis, he never looked back.

R EH A B TEC H N O LO GY S P EC IA LI S T DA LL A S , TE X A S

“I like the challenge of tennis,” Leavitt says. “When you play singles, it’s you against the other person. You’re your own coach on the court, so I really enjoyed the challenge of competing and traveling around and meeting other people.” In November 2021, Leavitt was inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame for his contributions to wheelchair tennis. Leavitt, who holds a record for playing in the U.S. Open National Wheelchair Championship for 25 consecutive years, is only the second wheelchair tennis player to receive the honor. The first was Randy Snow, who taught Leavitt how to play. “It was quite an honor to be inducted,” Leavitt says. “It was a neat experience. I ended up having 30 people—players, relatives, friends— come to watch me be inducted.” While helping his dad with a backyard project in 1968, Leavitt fell 30 feet from a radio antenna, resulting in a T4 spinal cord injury and complete paraplegia. Less than a year later, he helped to start the first wheelchair basketball team in the Dallas area. As the program grew, Leavitt took on a number of roles, ranging from coach to sports director for the entire program. Later, after learning how to play wheelchair tennis, Leavitt played an instrumental role in developing the sport throughout the state, country and world. When the Paralympics came to Atlanta in 1996, he was selected to serve as the U.S. tennis team coach. Leavitt counts the experience among his life’s greatest honors. But greater still is the joy of playing a part in introducing so many athletes to adaptive sports, Leavitt says. “It’s always great to teach other people and take your knowledge and implant it into other people,” Leavitt says. “I had somebody teach me, so I’m paying it forward and teaching other people.”

have always known our industry relies on teamwork: providers, clinicians, parents, manufacturers. But it took a pandemic to show just how resilient our team is. And it drew out the best in us. You put miles on the road, donned protective gear, pioneered telehealth models, all to deliver essential services and equipment for our clients, the people who depend on us, the people who make it all worthwhile. We’re proud to be part of this team.

Leading Your Best Life by amb er r ang el , as told to man dy crow

I’ve always been an active person. Before my accident, I was always in the water—water skiing, swimming, kayaking. In 2015, I was training in Wisconsin for a national barefoot water skiing competition when I fell and injured my spinal cord. I’m a C-5 quadriplegic, so I don’t have much hand function and I’m paralyzed from the triceps down.

Before my injury, my life was really fast, and I wasn’t that aware of myself or other people around me. So now, I can take a deeper breath and see it from a different perspective. I want to help others around me—to build others up, to climb the ladder while bringing other people with me.

I’m currently a full-time undergraduate student at the University of Illinois. I’m majoring in applied health sciences Living an active life became even more with a focus in recreation/sports tourism. Although I’ve important to me after my accident. I got had the great opportunity to explore the outdoors after my involved in DiveHeart, an adaptive scuba diving accident—to scuba dive, bike and raft—it’s definitely not as program, and I squeeze in outdoor adventures accessible as it was before my accident. I want to "I’m convinced whenever I can. With each challenge, I’ve found help people experience the outdoors. I want to that I learn a little more about myself. For me, that when each work with park districts and schools at the local staying active is about staying curious. Even if level and help close the gap that keeps people of of us can lead all disabilities from getting outdoors. It’s you try something and fail—it was still a unique experience just to try. our best lives, so important to our mental health, we’re regarded in society and Sometimes I wonder if I’m currently leading it’s better for all how how we engage with others. my best life or if it’s still to come. Personally, I believe that leading my best life involves staying healthy and being true to my body and mind. It means being open to experiencing new things—even if it makes me uncomfortable. Leading my best life means being aware of my surroundings and opening my eyes to other people and their needs as well.

40 | Let’s Get Moving

of us."

I want to make people with disabilities feel more comfortable at the park or the YMCA—because I’m convinced that when each of us can lead our best lives, it’s better for all of us. Follow Amber and her adventures on Instagram (@bamberies).

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