Embracing the Ups and Downs of Motherhood

Surrounded by her husband and her three children, Joni Vanderwoude celebrates the joys of motherhood. Joni broke her neck in a car accident when she was 20 years old, and became a quadriplegic. Through rehabilitation and accessible technology, Joni has…

Young Woman Finds Meaning After Stroke

“I am feeling strange. My brain is in a weird state right now — a combination of short brain games and lack of memory. While taking on the concept of a brain game earlier today, I suffered a memory overhaul.…

How To Transfer In And Out Of Plane Seats

Do you travel by plane often? Shawn Fluke, a C5/C6 quadriplegic, demonstrates how he transfers himself from his wheelchair to and from his plane seat. https://youtu.be/i7MiR5EOK7Q “When I had my chair made, I had it designed as narrow as I…

Caregiving From Dana Reeve's Perspective

The late Dana Reeve was a pioneer for caregiving. As the wife of Christopher Reeve, Dana brought the issues of caregiving and advocating for caregivers to the forefront as she learned to navigate a life which included caring for someone with a spinal cord injury. Just…

#AthletesWeLove: Nina Nissly

#AthletesWeLove: Nina Nissly, USA “There are no limits when you are determined” Nina Nissly is a 3 time IHSA Illinois state champion, holding 3 records in swimming. 50 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle and 200 Freestyle in the Athletes with Disabilities category. She…

Girl Born Without Hands Wins Penmanship Award

  Anaya is a 7-year-old first grader who was born without hands. She recently won a national penmanship honor when she was awarded the Nicholas Maxim Special Award for Excellence in Penmanship. Anaya does not wear prosthetics. Instead, she writes…

Quelling Fear As A Mom Of A Quadriplegic Teen

  Emma, mother of four, says her oldest son, Will, 14, "has always been the least affectionate of my four children. Hugging your mom takes time, you need to pause and stand still and connect,” and Will was always too…

7 Recreational Sports for Wheelchair Users

There are many recreational sports available for wheelchair users to try. Maybe you want to get some light exercise, or perhaps you just want to hang out with friends while enjoying an activity together. Here’s some great sports to choose…