Hi everyone. its so good to be back, and I can’t wait to share the rest of this series with you. Why not check out these videos next? Costly mistakes people make when choosing a wheelchair: th-cam.com/video/3VLGaeLYa3Q/w-d-xo.html My Wheelchair is causing me problems th-cam.com/video/uHv5oRLSo0o/w-d-xo.html How to fund a wheelchair th-cam.com/video/TFnK989-gig/w-d-xo.html How to buy a stairlift th-cam.com/video/wx7X68Xo7gs/w-d-xo.html
That is awesome that cyclone employs mostly people who use wheelchairs! That isn’t true in the US and I think it really effects the quality and their understanding.
RGK are another manufacturer who does this! I agree it massively helps (as an ambulatory user going into my first ever purchase, he was able to advice me what options were the best and what things would help me the most, as he actually used the model I was buying)
Reckless Wheelchair's employees are almost all in wheelchairs. The owner started the company to be able to make his son's chairs. They are out of Houston, TX. They are who I'm going through for my chair.
@heaventhornton3430 They kept me updated every step of the way with pictures and messages. If there were any delays, the owner called me (seat cushion was delayed being shipped to them). They were super helpful.
I bought my first private wheelchair a little over a year ago. One of the best things I’ve ever done. Makes me feel like I’d previously been living in the dark ages!
I got a brand new wheelchair a few years ago, but it wasn't measured right and the centre of gravity was wrong. I got a second hand one from ebay a couple of months ago and it's perfect for me!! Weird how things work out sometimes 😅
YOU'RE BACK !! Hi gem I have really missed for videos so i can't wait for this new series. ❤❤ it's really great that cyclone employs wheelchair users for wheelchair users
Thank you so much. This is so helpful. My current one is so so awful. I bought it the first day I was discharged from hospital. It has helped and I wouldn’t move around without it but it’s so uncomfortable wobbly.
My wife got her first (and so far only) wheelchair five years ago. A Panthera active chair. She's lucky (?) Because her brother has been in a wheelchair for many years. They both have HSP (Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis). So he could tell her how to build it! So now she has Spinnergy wheels and Swable tires, a really good seat cushion, some sort from Jay. The only thing we have customized afterwards is a lower back and a foot plate with a front edge, to prevent her spasms! It is really fun to drive and it is easy to sit in a good position both forwards and backwards! Incredibly important with this video as it is difficult to choose a chair without experience! By the way, fitted new tires and front wheels yesterday! 💯♥️
Thank you for this video. I’m a wheelchair user who can’t currently get an active wheelchair, but am designing one to fit my needs because I can’t find one exactly like what I want on the market. This helped a ton, so thank you!
I can’t wait till I can get my new chair myself I have my T7A crossfire chair 2018 model I added to much to my chair that for my next chair I won’t need a lot of the things I have now like a seatbelt and and brakes and also push handles won’t need any of that since I live on my own and don’t get tired easily
Needing to buy my first chair soon and I feel so lost! Glad there are ppl like you offering advice etc. I wish there was a company like this in the US.
I didn’t realize people were buying wheelchairs without being measured or anything. Mine was fitted for me and for my condition. It has even got a fixed back fitted to my back to keep my spine from moving too much 🥰
I'm getting my second custom very soon and I'm so excited for it. I had zero idea what I was doing the first time and unfortunately didn't speak up on things I wanted/needed during the process and I ended up with a chair that doesn't fit right and was WAY too heavy! Channels like yours have really helped me further my knowledge on wheelchairs and now im getting a chair that will truly be what I need for my disability!
I have just changed my wheelchair during 2021. I went from a Kuschall to a quickie Krypton F wheelchair. That's day and night. I thought the first one war good but going to the new one was a revelation. I think that an important factor in changing wheelchair is having the right person in front of you. A person who know what he does, who will take time with you sharring your needs and expectations for your wheelchair. Of course get measured the right way is the most important thing but what i've said before is also really important. That's my opinion and I'll be glad to share it if someone need to, even you Gem :)
Recently found your channel as I'm researching power attachments for wheelchairs. Ive started at the oldest videos and working my way through, there's great information, thank you. I also went to Richard's channel (wheels2walking) but was sad to see that his last video was a year ago, do you have any further information about him, i was enjoying going through his videos from oldest to most recent until i saw the date.
Understanding what every add-on is and knowing what everything means is very challenging. Your advice on talking with an OT was helpful, I will do that for sure. Unfortunately, here in the US we don't carry the same chairs that you have. There is one called the Rogue that I am looking at and hoping it feels good when I try it out. Thanks Gem! Your videos are always educational and fun to watch as well.
It's great to see you back! We've all missed you! I'm getting a new chair as well. Although I'm getting a newer model kuschall k series in light blue. As I'm 6ft, I need 26-inch wheels, so I have to be sat up quite high. I'm also getting a slightly wider chair as I've put on a bit of lockdown spread 😅 Plus, I'm getting a new motability car as well!
Can’t wait to see your new chair!!! Everyone at Cyclone seems really lovely, it’s so great to have a really experienced fitting team 😁 this is making me extra excited to start new chair shopping
Just about to change my chair. Finance is a combination of NHS Voucher and Access to Work. Thank you for your well timed content. I am not yet decided on the chair, but will also be getting a power attachment and didn't even think that some chairs wouldn't be able to cope! Will be checking that out. So far, I like the look of the KI chairs. Looking forward to the next update from you. Heidi x
Hey, would you mind explaining how you've been able to combo ATW and NHS voucher? ATW usually are so strict re not funding things needed for outside work so I'd be really interested to know how it was possible to combo? Might help me or my rehab patients to know :) if happy to share!
@@emilyb5557 They have no problem combining the two. I have now received my chair and triride. The funding was complicated . I advised A2W the amount of the NHS voucher, they then take it off the total. They then do a 5/7th calc as I work 5 days a week, and will use it at the weekend. I paid my 2/7th portion. Now that I have received the chair, I can apply to motorbility for a grant to repay me that contribution. The only problem with that process is you need to have the money. Luckily I had some savings. Not sure what would have happened if I hadn't.
Some great tips, still looking for my ideal wheelchair. I had one company out. He brought two chairs one was no good and the other one even though it was great to turn around in and the seat good. I felt pressured into getting a quote for that one. For me the foot rest stuck to far out and it was hard to get out especially been an amputee. The price he quoted with the extras, like push handles, seat cushion, and other things. It total it came too over £4000. I'm given that company a miss
@@mathew-marcus7862 oh god, where I live we don't have the nhs but we have a similair government program, if you don't know exactly what you want they screw you over and it's horribly long process, and with that, they tend to not replace your wheelchair if you need it, hence why my first two were second hand until I figured out what I wanted lol
I find wheelchair advice so frustrating sometimes because i just cannot afford an active user manual wheelchair , i simply don’t have 3 grand to spend ,i just got a new to me second had manual on eBay for 60 pounds but it’s by no means right just better than the one I had which was literally held together with cable ties , the reason most people aren’t happy with their wheelchairs is because they can’t afford to get a new made to measure chair
Hi, Ever tried The Surge LT push rims? Surprised that these was not presented. I find them the best thing in my new wheelchair that I got a couple of years ago, and I'll definitely buy them again with my next chair.
Hi Jen, Your channel is proving extremely helpful and also fun to watch. I have the classic trifecta of EDS, MCAS, and dysautonomias (Orthostatic intolerance, PPPD (aka always dizzy), and cardioneurogenic syncope (I pass out and can stop breathing during blood tests or severe cuts/skin injuries). I had covid twice (April 2020 + Dec 2021) which was not good, but did finally lead to an EDS diagnosis for myself and my mom, as well as an aunt who's in the process of being diagnosed. I've been using Nordic walking poles and one or two canes for 1.5 years now, and am planning on getting a mobility and medical response service dog puppy in about 18-24 months. On Friday I went to the Royal Ontario Museum with a friend. I sprained my ankle yet again a couple of weeks ago, and standing sucks (continually walking with some sitting down breaks is ok because the blood doesn't pool in my legs so much) so I borrowed a museum wheelchair. It's the first time in about two years that I haven't been dizzy, exhausted, have absolutely no brain fog for an entire day, and almost pain free. I could also go fast again! ( I used to trail run and xc ski race.). I've watched and listened to other spoonies with POTS/dysautonomia and EDS who have had their wheelchairs make a world of difference, but never thought a wheelchair would make such a difference for me (that classic I'm not disabled enough/don't have POTS so it's not that bad). All the information on your channel is opening up a new world for me of being as active as I prefer to be, and being able to go to museums and galleries and not be scared/worried that I'll use up all my spoons and have less spoons for several days afterwards. Pimping out my future chair is also on my new bucket list. I grew up in the outdoors, including doing backcountry and subalpine trips in primary school and have canoe guided. I love good gear. Mobility aids don't have to be boring or medical #babeswithmobilityaids (I have one pink and one purple cane, and my Nordic walking poles are purple.). I'm looking forward now to learning to do a pop a wheelie (again - I did figure out how to do one on one emerg hospital visit for yet again an ankle injury). Thank you so very much for all your content! (PS As a former special ed teacher seeing your daughter grow up in the background of your videos is also lovely. She's a really cool kid!)
My chair doesn't fit how i want it to anymore but I knew that was going to happen becuse this is my first chair. when i get my next one it will fit so much better.
Another piece of advice--You or a partner/friend should learn how to adjust and maintain your chair. It's time consuming and expensive to go to a seating clinic every time you want to make an adjustment, if you can even get to a clinic in the first place. Your first wheelchair will almost never be perfect, so learning how to tweak your chair and find the perfect measurements will save you pain and frustration when ordering chairs in the future. Once you find what works best for you, get a non-adjustable chair. Welded/fixed parts save you the hassle of loose, squeaky, and heavy adjustable parts.
Hey there. I think so, do you mean customisations for the chair? If so what are you intreated in? In the next few videos you will see a little more of the customisations I chose.
@@Wheelsnoheels I meant HOC do complete custom builds, would Cyclone offer the same? I like the batec welded attachment, that would be an example of a customisation. I am looking forward to the next vids. Thanks
@@FreddotheWheelchairGuy yep. So my chair is Fully welded to my specific specifications. A little like Richards from wheels2walking. They have similar options too. In the third and final vidoe, you will get to see everything I chose. 😊
I have had some wheelchairs in the past from Cyclone their sales team are very good and understanding but in the past I have found the after service pretty poor and they have been unable to support me with the repairs to my wheelchair. I now use a local Company called Bromakins which is only 10 miles away from my home and have good support from them.
@@Wheelsnoheels I have a helium with a titanium frame from Bromakin Mobility in Loughborough. I’m glad I used this local company as on occasions I needed emergency work doing to my front casters and without being able to pop down the road and get it fixed the same day I wouldn’t have been able to go on my holiday. When I have used Cyclone for repairs I have travelled up to there premises but have found it quite a trek as it’s near Liverpool. I have also experienced wheelchair company’s going into administration and not being able to get any help from them at all and then when the company reopens not getting the same level of service. That’s my experience, Hope it helps 👍🏻Simon
I feel like I need a wheelchair because of fatigue but I don't know if my doctor would give me one because I'm not clumsy and don't faint. I still feel like I need one for my safety because I know one day I will start fainting and I would much rather not hurt myself. I'm pretty young (a few weeks from fifteen) and am worried about him believing me. Does anyone have any advice?
Same I have fatigue too but I’m too afraid to say anything to my mom because I can walk perfectly fine but my dream is to use a wheelchair because I’m seeing a lot of people are turning to using wheelchairs for different things but when I get my own place I’m going to see if my ODSP- Ontario Disability Support Program) it’s a program that helps people with disabilities receive money from the government every month I’m going to see if my disability money will cover for me to buy myself a wheelchair I’m thinking either a manual one for when I go out and a power wheelchair for around the house and I can if I don’t want to sleep in my bed I can sleep in my wheelchair I just need to put a blanket on me and I’ll be okay and when I go to the bathroom I’ll use my lift when I also can buy that as well to lift me out of my wheelchair or my bed but yes wheelchairs are great for just about anything because I grew up having a developmental/ learning disability and I’ve been watching people try being disabled for a day and I think buying a wheelchair has definitely improved their quality of life and also using a wheelchair is good for your health and also you can exercise using a wheelchair because you’re constantly using your hands and arms or your joy stick to steer your wheelchair around because I know somebody who used a power wheelchair and she was always nice and comfy she could wear clothes and what her parents would do is put a body strap to keep her body in place and then they would put a couple of blankets on her in winter or even summer to keep her warm and she felt comfortable the whole time and also she felt so relaxed when I would look at her she was my inspiration to try using a wheelchair and also it even fit her Tracheostomy machine on the back of her wheelchair which I might have to use a tracheostomy like her because I’m a mouth breather and I can’t breathe through my nose but I was supposed to go and see the ENT: Ears, Nose and Throat doctor during COVID but I didn’t end up going because I’m sensitive to pain . but maybe if I get a power wheelchair I can put my suction machine at the back of my wheelchair just like the lady that I knew did with her wheelchair she put her whole breathing device on the back of her power wheelchair and her helper or nurse would tell her to turn around and afce her and she would turn the suction machine on and start suctioning her tracheostomy tube on her neck. I’m prown to getting Eczema between my legs it’s called Hidradenitis and they say using a wheelchair helps for those symptoms of that type of Eczema. Hello 👋 from Isabella Cabral from London, Ontario Canada 🇨🇦 🤗🩷 ♿️ @TheWaywardCheckpoint @Wheelsnoheels - Gem Hubbard
I finally got crutches, but they said my 4th & 5th metarsal breaks are healing on their own (oddly). They also put my dislocated toes back in place. I also discovered their is a right way to limp & I did it wrong from 31Dec til now causing nerve damage from knee to ankle. Kind of a dumb question, but I thought in the UK you got medical necessities free?
Certain things yes. Wheelchairs are very much a postcode lottery and the NHS won’t give ones suitable for many peoples needs. In my case since I can walk they wouldn’t fund me at all
Unfortunately a comfortable chair that you can easily manage alone isn't considered a necessity in the UK. If you have a partner, family member or carer then it's just assumed they will take care of anything you can't manage, so very little in the way of help is offered. Even things like adaptations so you can get around and use your own home aren't guaranteed. There are so many disabled people trapped in unsuitable, unusable homes, with unsuitable aids that nobody is interested in helping. Even with advocacy or someone within the NHS in your corner, there is so little communication between departments and districts and so much is outsourced to charitable organisations with impossible time constraints that the best most can hope for is being told that they wish there was a magic wand, followed quickly by discharge. If you can't pay for what you need when you need it, especially as an adult, then you're pretty much on your own.
(Off topic) Does anyone have tips on where to visit London that is wheelchair accessible attractions, restaurants etc (am alone no one to push me around)
Gem, I’m a newbie, I received an electric wheelchair end of August but nothing fits right, october 10 now. My hometown council rented it for me, its a Quickie Salsa m2, piece of crap ! Leg rests are too short and cushions are so thin everything is cold. Have put a cushion and😊 a wollen blanket in it. FREEZING !!! It has ruined my flooring! Not happy at all, the seller is Welzorg in The Netherlands. They keep phoning and then saying o, sorry we have no open dates to come over… the reason I reached out was not only to complain, but I always took off my shoes when I entered my house. A wheelchair can not take its shoes off haha. Do you have different wheelchairs for inside and outside? In Holland there is a lot of doggie poo on the ground… nobody has spoken of these things… please do so !
Hi everyone. its so good to be back, and I can’t wait to share the rest of this series with you. Why not check out these videos next?
Costly mistakes people make when choosing a wheelchair:
th-cam.com/video/3VLGaeLYa3Q/w-d-xo.html
My Wheelchair is causing me problems
th-cam.com/video/uHv5oRLSo0o/w-d-xo.html
How to fund a wheelchair
th-cam.com/video/TFnK989-gig/w-d-xo.html
How to buy a stairlift
th-cam.com/video/wx7X68Xo7gs/w-d-xo.html
That is awesome that cyclone employs mostly people who use wheelchairs! That isn’t true in the US and I think it really effects the quality and their understanding.
RGK are another manufacturer who does this! I agree it massively helps (as an ambulatory user going into my first ever purchase, he was able to advice me what options were the best and what things would help me the most, as he actually used the model I was buying)
Reckless Wheelchair's employees are almost all in wheelchairs. The owner started the company to be able to make his son's chairs. They are out of Houston, TX. They are who I'm going through for my chair.
@@kadindefranza2478 how was your experience?
@heaventhornton3430 They kept me updated every step of the way with pictures and messages. If there were any delays, the owner called me (seat cushion was delayed being shipped to them). They were super helpful.
Great timing Gem, I’m getting measured for my first active user chair tomorrow. Your videos are always helpful and entertaining!
I bought my first private wheelchair a little over a year ago. One of the best things I’ve ever done. Makes me feel like I’d previously been living in the dark ages!
It really dose feel like that. Its amazing how a good chair can make you feel. Glad you found something
Private? They Are $150 or less on Amazon
@@sweetbeep Amazon chairs are not custom, so they’re bad for people with longterm disability
@@Daddynomnoms ..what is bad about them?
@@sweetbeepyou can end up with pressure sores and back problems, they can rub in places and they can be harder to use independently
I got a brand new wheelchair a few years ago, but it wasn't measured right and the centre of gravity was wrong. I got a second hand one from ebay a couple of months ago and it's perfect for me!! Weird how things work out sometimes 😅
letsss goooo! its a tragedy that most peoples chair isnt the right fit the first or even second time!
YOU'RE BACK !! Hi gem I have really missed for videos so i can't wait for this new series. ❤❤ it's really great that cyclone employs wheelchair users for wheelchair users
Its good to be back. Thank you for your support.
That was sad news to hear from you of Stewart’s passing. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Thank you so much. This is so helpful. My current one is so so awful. I bought it the first day I was discharged from hospital. It has helped and I wouldn’t move around without it but it’s so uncomfortable wobbly.
My wife got her first (and so far only) wheelchair five years ago. A Panthera active chair. She's lucky (?) Because her brother has been in a wheelchair for many years. They both have HSP (Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis). So he could tell her how to build it! So now she has Spinnergy wheels and Swable tires, a really good seat cushion, some sort from Jay. The only thing we have customized afterwards is a lower back and a foot plate with a front edge, to prevent her spasms! It is really fun to drive and it is easy to sit in a good position both forwards and backwards! Incredibly important with this video as it is difficult to choose a chair without experience! By the way, fitted new tires and front wheels yesterday! 💯♥️
Thank you for this video. I’m a wheelchair user who can’t currently get an active wheelchair, but am designing one to fit my needs because I can’t find one exactly like what I want on the market. This helped a ton, so thank you!
I can’t wait till I can get my new chair myself I have my T7A crossfire chair 2018 model I added to much to my chair that for my next chair I won’t need a lot of the things I have now like a seatbelt and and brakes and also push handles won’t need any of that since I live on my own and don’t get tired easily
Needing to buy my first chair soon and I feel so lost! Glad there are ppl like you offering advice etc. I wish there was a company like this in the US.
I didn’t realize people were buying wheelchairs without being measured or anything. Mine was fitted for me and for my condition. It has even got a fixed back fitted to my back to keep my spine from moving too much 🥰
I'm getting my second custom very soon and I'm so excited for it. I had zero idea what I was doing the first time and unfortunately didn't speak up on things I wanted/needed during the process and I ended up with a chair that doesn't fit right and was WAY too heavy! Channels like yours have really helped me further my knowledge on wheelchairs and now im getting a chair that will truly be what I need for my disability!
How exciting. what have you gone for?
@@Wheelsnoheels i ended up going for a tilite areo z! Going from a quickie 2 lite, it'll definitely be a very needed change
I have just changed my wheelchair during 2021. I went from a Kuschall to a quickie Krypton F wheelchair.
That's day and night. I thought the first one war good but going to the new one was a revelation.
I think that an important factor in changing wheelchair is having the right person in front of you. A person who know what he does, who will take time with you sharring your needs and expectations for your wheelchair.
Of course get measured the right way is the most important thing but what i've said before is also really important.
That's my opinion and I'll be glad to share it if someone need to, even you Gem :)
Thank you so much for sharing :)
Recently found your channel as I'm researching power attachments for wheelchairs. Ive started at the oldest videos and working my way through, there's great information, thank you. I also went to Richard's channel (wheels2walking) but was sad to see that his last video was a year ago, do you have any further information about him, i was enjoying going through his videos from oldest to most recent until i saw the date.
Thank you for educating and inspiring! You are TRULY a GEM! 😘
You are so welcome!
Understanding what every add-on is and knowing what everything means is very challenging. Your advice on talking with an OT was helpful, I will do that for sure. Unfortunately, here in the US we don't carry the same chairs that you have. There is one called the Rogue that I am looking at and hoping it feels good when I try it out.
Thanks Gem! Your videos are always educational and fun to watch as well.
It's great to see you back! We've all missed you!
I'm getting a new chair as well. Although I'm getting a newer model kuschall k series in light blue. As I'm 6ft, I need 26-inch wheels, so I have to be sat up quite high. I'm also getting a slightly wider chair as I've put on a bit of lockdown spread 😅
Plus, I'm getting a new motability car as well!
Oh wow. Id love to see it. Feel free to send me a pic
Great video, glad your back.
Can’t wait to see your new chair!!! Everyone at Cyclone seems really lovely, it’s so great to have a really experienced fitting team 😁 this is making me extra excited to start new chair shopping
Ps, big fan of the graphics at the end they’re mega!
I cant wait to show it off. Its amazing. Cant wait to see your chair journey too. Always happy to help
Thanks babe. They took hours
Just about to change my chair. Finance is a combination of NHS Voucher and Access to Work. Thank you for your well timed content. I am not yet decided on the chair, but will also be getting a power attachment and didn't even think that some chairs wouldn't be able to cope! Will be checking that out. So far, I like the look of the KI chairs. Looking forward to the next update from you. Heidi x
Oh cool. Im always happy to help. My batec has changed my life. Im so happy with it.
Hey, would you mind explaining how you've been able to combo ATW and NHS voucher? ATW usually are so strict re not funding things needed for outside work so I'd be really interested to know how it was possible to combo? Might help me or my rehab patients to know :) if happy to share!
@@emilyb5557 They have no problem combining the two. I have now received my chair and triride. The funding was complicated . I advised A2W the amount of the NHS voucher, they then take it off the total. They then do a 5/7th calc as I work 5 days a week, and will use it at the weekend. I paid my 2/7th portion. Now that I have received the chair, I can apply to motorbility for a grant to repay me that contribution. The only problem with that process is you need to have the money. Luckily I had some savings. Not sure what would have happened if I hadn't.
Some great tips, still looking for my ideal wheelchair. I had one company out. He brought two chairs one was no good and the other one even though it was great to turn around in and the seat good. I felt pressured into getting a quote for that one. For me the foot rest stuck to far out and it was hard to get out especially been an amputee. The price he quoted with the extras, like push handles, seat cushion, and other things. It total it came too over £4000. I'm given that company a miss
I hope you find a good one
So excited for you Gem!!
Oooh I’m excited for you! Looking forward to seeing the new wheels! I’m just awaiting mine getting here with me! So excited for the gekko rims!
Ahhh your gona love them 😊😊
Hi Gem great video you look very pretty an your makeup is spot on I'm looking forward to seeing the series have a great day love from TEXAS
Hi Gem, it’s awesome your back!
I don’t know if your aware the audio is kinda faded out in places and really muddied/unclear
Its good to be back. No I wasnt aware of that. Thank you for letting me know. Im going to look into a new mic situation soon
This was really a informative video, thanks a lot
I really appreciate you doing this series, getting my first custom non second hand chair soon so perfect timing lol
Same here tho it is my first chair ever unfortunately I had to go through nhs :(
@@mathew-marcus7862 oh god, where I live we don't have the nhs but we have a similair government program, if you don't know exactly what you want they screw you over and it's horribly long process, and with that, they tend to not replace your wheelchair if you need it, hence why my first two were second hand until I figured out what I wanted lol
I find wheelchair advice so frustrating sometimes because i just cannot afford an active user manual wheelchair , i simply don’t have 3 grand to spend ,i just got a new to me second had manual on eBay for 60 pounds but it’s by no means right just better than the one I had which was literally held together with cable ties , the reason most people aren’t happy with their wheelchairs is because they can’t afford to get a new made to measure chair
Hi, Ever tried The Surge LT push rims? Surprised that these was not presented. I find them the best thing in my new wheelchair that I got a couple of years ago, and I'll definitely buy them again with my next chair.
I’m video 3 you will get to see my new wheelchair and all the cool extras I choose 🙈🤍
i wish i could have a second hand wheelchair like yours,im sci complete from philippines .
Hi Jen,
Your channel is proving extremely helpful and also fun to watch. I have the classic trifecta of EDS, MCAS, and dysautonomias (Orthostatic intolerance, PPPD (aka always dizzy), and cardioneurogenic syncope (I pass out and can stop breathing during blood tests or severe cuts/skin injuries). I had covid twice (April 2020 + Dec 2021) which was not good, but did finally lead to an EDS diagnosis for myself and my mom, as well as an aunt who's in the process of being diagnosed. I've been using Nordic walking poles and one or two canes for 1.5 years now, and am planning on getting a mobility and medical response service dog puppy in about 18-24 months.
On Friday I went to the Royal Ontario Museum with a friend. I sprained my ankle yet again a couple of weeks ago, and standing sucks (continually walking with some sitting down breaks is ok because the blood doesn't pool in my legs so much) so I borrowed a museum wheelchair. It's the first time in about two years that I haven't been dizzy, exhausted, have absolutely no brain fog for an entire day, and almost pain free. I could also go fast again! ( I used to trail run and xc ski race.). I've watched and listened to other spoonies with POTS/dysautonomia and EDS who have had their wheelchairs make a world of difference, but never thought a wheelchair would make such a difference for me (that classic I'm not disabled enough/don't have POTS so it's not that bad).
All the information on your channel is opening up a new world for me of being as active as I prefer to be, and being able to go to museums and galleries and not be scared/worried that I'll use up all my spoons and have less spoons for several days afterwards. Pimping out my future chair is also on my new bucket list. I grew up in the outdoors, including doing backcountry and subalpine trips in primary school and have canoe guided. I love good gear. Mobility aids don't have to be boring or medical #babeswithmobilityaids (I have one pink and one purple cane, and my Nordic walking poles are purple.). I'm looking forward now to learning to do a pop a wheelie (again - I did figure out how to do one on one emerg hospital visit for yet again an ankle injury).
Thank you so very much for all your content!
(PS As a former special ed teacher seeing your daughter grow up in the background of your videos is also lovely. She's a really cool kid!)
Fantastic video.
My chair doesn't fit how i want it to anymore but I knew that was going to happen becuse this is my first chair. when i get my next one it will fit so much better.
I hope these videos will help you, when you come to choose your next one. :)
Another piece of advice--You or a partner/friend should learn how to adjust and maintain your chair. It's time consuming and expensive to go to a seating clinic every time you want to make an adjustment, if you can even get to a clinic in the first place. Your first wheelchair will almost never be perfect, so learning how to tweak your chair and find the perfect measurements will save you pain and frustration when ordering chairs in the future. Once you find what works best for you, get a non-adjustable chair. Welded/fixed parts save you the hassle of loose, squeaky, and heavy adjustable parts.
Thank you for sharing the tips.
Awesome vid Gem, the cyclone chairs look great. Do you know if they do customisations like hands on concepts?
Hey there. I think so, do you mean customisations for the chair? If so what are you intreated in? In the next few videos you will see a little more of the customisations I chose.
@@Wheelsnoheels I meant HOC do complete custom builds, would Cyclone offer the same? I like the batec welded attachment, that would be an example of a customisation. I am looking forward to the next vids. Thanks
@@FreddotheWheelchairGuy yep. So my chair is
Fully welded to my specific specifications. A little like Richards from wheels2walking. They have similar options too. In the third and final vidoe, you will get to see everything I chose. 😊
I have had some wheelchairs in the past from Cyclone their sales team are very good and understanding but in the past I have found the after service pretty poor and they have been unable to support me with the repairs to my wheelchair. I now use a local Company called Bromakins which is only 10 miles away from my home and have good support from them.
Thanks for sharing. What chair do you have?
@@Wheelsnoheels I have a helium with a titanium frame from Bromakin Mobility in Loughborough. I’m glad I used this local company as on occasions I needed emergency work doing to my front casters and without being able to pop down the road and get it fixed the same day I wouldn’t have been able to go on my holiday. When I have used Cyclone for repairs I have travelled up to there premises but have found it quite a trek as it’s near Liverpool. I have also experienced wheelchair company’s going into administration and not being able to get any help from them at all and then when the company reopens not getting the same level of service.
That’s my experience, Hope it helps 👍🏻Simon
Your back !! Horray
Why are wheelchair tyres so skinny? Wouldn't fat wheels be better if you're heading down a footpath or just outdoors in general?
I feel like I need a wheelchair because of fatigue but I don't know if my doctor would give me one because I'm not clumsy and don't faint. I still feel like I need one for my safety because I know one day I will start fainting and I would much rather not hurt myself. I'm pretty young (a few weeks from fifteen) and am worried about him believing me. Does anyone have any advice?
Same I have fatigue too but I’m too afraid to say anything to my mom because I can walk perfectly fine but my dream is to use a wheelchair because I’m seeing a lot of people are turning to using wheelchairs for different things but when I get my own place I’m going to see if my ODSP- Ontario Disability Support Program) it’s a program that helps people with disabilities receive money from the government every month I’m going to see if my disability money will cover for me to buy myself a wheelchair I’m thinking either a manual one for when I go out and a power wheelchair for around the house and I can if I don’t want to sleep in my bed I can sleep in my wheelchair I just need to put a blanket on me and I’ll be okay and when I go to the bathroom I’ll use my lift when I also can buy that as well to lift me out of my wheelchair or my bed but yes wheelchairs are great for just about anything because I grew up having a developmental/ learning disability and I’ve been watching people try being disabled for a day and I think buying a wheelchair has definitely improved their quality of life and also using a wheelchair is good for your health and also you can exercise using a wheelchair because you’re constantly using your hands and arms or your joy stick to steer your wheelchair around because I know somebody who used a power wheelchair and she was always nice and comfy she could wear clothes and what her parents would do is put a body strap to keep her body in place and then they would put a couple of blankets on her in winter or even summer to keep her warm and she felt comfortable the whole time and also she felt so relaxed when I would look at her she was my inspiration to try using a wheelchair and also it even fit her Tracheostomy machine on the back of her wheelchair which I might have to use a tracheostomy like her because I’m a mouth breather and I can’t breathe through my nose but I was supposed to go and see the ENT: Ears, Nose and Throat doctor during COVID but I didn’t end up going because I’m sensitive to pain . but maybe if I get a power wheelchair I can put my suction machine at the back of my wheelchair just like the lady that I knew did with her wheelchair she put her whole breathing device on the back of her power wheelchair and her helper or nurse would tell her to turn around and afce her and she would turn the suction machine on and start suctioning her tracheostomy tube on her neck. I’m prown to getting Eczema between my legs it’s called Hidradenitis and they say using a wheelchair helps for those symptoms of that type of Eczema. Hello 👋 from Isabella Cabral from London, Ontario Canada 🇨🇦 🤗🩷 ♿️ @TheWaywardCheckpoint @Wheelsnoheels - Gem Hubbard
Awesome 😎
Thanks 🤗
Nice outfit! 😊
Hey not to pressure you or anything Gem but erm whens the big reveal???!! I can't keep waiting like this 🤣🤣🤣🤣❤
Hahaha Third video, end of the month. Cant wait to show it off. :) Its Gemazing. lol
Im very interesting to buy
Wow very nice video
If someone's hips are 18 inches across then what width wheel chair do the need?
I finally got crutches, but they said my 4th & 5th metarsal breaks are healing on their own (oddly). They also put my dislocated toes back in place.
I also discovered their is a right way to limp & I did it wrong from 31Dec til now causing nerve damage from knee to ankle.
Kind of a dumb question, but I thought in the UK you got medical necessities free?
Certain things yes. Wheelchairs are very much a postcode lottery and the NHS won’t give ones suitable for many peoples needs. In my case since I can walk they wouldn’t fund me at all
Yes but they are very standard, heavy chairs.
Unfortunately a comfortable chair that you can easily manage alone isn't considered a necessity in the UK. If you have a partner, family member or carer then it's just assumed they will take care of anything you can't manage, so very little in the way of help is offered. Even things like adaptations so you can get around and use your own home aren't guaranteed. There are so many disabled people trapped in unsuitable, unusable homes, with unsuitable aids that nobody is interested in helping. Even with advocacy or someone within the NHS in your corner, there is so little communication between departments and districts and so much is outsourced to charitable organisations with impossible time constraints that the best most can hope for is being told that they wish there was a magic wand, followed quickly by discharge. If you can't pay for what you need when you need it, especially as an adult, then you're pretty much on your own.
Anyone know a good place to ask about folding power wheelchairs? Gem mentioned it's good to ask other users, but I don't know any other users
In the uk? Ill see what I can find out for you.
@@Wheelsnoheels I'm in the US but I'm looking for reviews and recommendations of folding power wheelchairs so anywhere would be great!
(Off topic) Does anyone have tips on where to visit London that is wheelchair accessible attractions, restaurants etc (am alone no one to push me around)
Ps love your channel !
Gem, I’m a newbie, I received an electric wheelchair end of August but nothing fits right, october 10 now. My hometown council rented it for me, its a Quickie Salsa m2, piece of crap ! Leg rests are too short and cushions are so thin everything is cold. Have put a cushion and😊 a wollen blanket in it. FREEZING !!! It has ruined my flooring! Not happy at all, the seller is Welzorg in The Netherlands. They keep phoning and then saying o, sorry we have no open dates to come over… the reason I reached out was not only to complain, but I always took off my shoes when I entered my house. A wheelchair can not take its shoes off haha. Do you have different wheelchairs for inside and outside? In Holland there is a lot of doggie poo on the ground… nobody has spoken of these things… please do so !
Excellent information 👏👏👏👏👏👩🏼🦽
Glad you liked it
I don’t know why I’m watching this but hello
😂😂😂😂😂😂❤
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