LIVE QUICKIE BLOG

Life often teaches us that planning is futile. Some believe they have life meticulously mapped out, but the reality is that too many variables are beyond our control, and things rarely go as planned. As a 19-year-old who had just moved to California and was living away from her parents, attending university, and working full-time, I never considered the possibility of living with a disability. But there I was, lying in the ICU, paralyzed.

Traveling with a child who has special needs can seem daunting at first, but having the right tools can make a world of difference. Elijah's ZIPPIE wheelchair has been an essential part of our journey.

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.

As winter approaches, wheelchair users may face unique challenges, from icy sidewalks to snow-covered ramps. But with some preparation and the right tools, you can stay mobile, safe, and ready to embrace the season. Here are some practical tips to help wheelchair users navigate winter with confidence and ease.

One thing that has changed is how I navigate the winter holiday season with Andrew. As an infant and even as a toddler, celebrating the holidays was pretty much typical. Gift giving and holiday celebrations weren't a challenge during those early years. Andrew's abilities weren't as delayed then. Comforting a crying baby during large family gatherings was just what many new parents experienced. Time with family, gift giving, and establishing our own family traditions was how those early years flowed.