I’ve just got my own first personal wheelchair after years of being stubborn and being pigheaded. I’ve missed out on so much that all my family kept onto me and threatened that they all would go to my doctor to get this sorted. I gave in and finally spoke to my ( Brilliant ) Doctor who was really understanding and understands it’s not all about that BLUE BADGE like so many others. My first chair is a NHS wheelchair so not much choice but let’s not forget that this is provided for free so no gripes here. Thank to the NHS I’ve finally will maybe be able to do some of the things I have missed.
Can you make a video on things you have re-learn how to do in a wheelchair? Like opening doors, getting in/out of cars, picking up items, etc. I’m new to wheelchair life and feel totally lost when it comes to do some every day things.
thank you so much for your suggestion. These are all on my list, so stay subbed, They will be coming up soon. I have how I shower & do my hair How to pick things up. How to get in and out of the car and how to open doors, and how to push people in wheelchairs. :)
@@Wheelsnoheels fortunately us men don't need WC's because in the world according to "girlie tube" us men don't suffer spinal injuries because ALL of t he videos I've seen from paralysis to0 cystic fibrosis ALL INVOLVE strictly FEMALES!!!
What is the most important thing you look for when buying a new chair? There were a few other points that i didn't have time to mention, such as camber, and "tipsiness" of the chair, Don't forget to give me a thumbs up!! xx
Wheelsnoheels - Gem Hubbard I am considering a wheelchair for my CFS and growing list of disabilities and I am doing all my research. You make having a wheelchair look exciting and fun! Just subscribed today!
I'm in my 60's, so not necessarily a lot in common with yourself. I can only walk approx 40 yards before I have to stop. (Walking at home isn't really a problem) I can walk as far as my car but can't make it round say a supermarket or to the shops, so seriously considering buying a chair which would enable me to get out more. Thank you so much for this video, you've given me a lot to consider before purchasing.
I used to have the light up casters and I LOVED them. The issue is that they get caught on every bump so I have larger casters (that dont light up) so they are much smoother. Nothing will ever look as cool though.
Thanks Gem, just a couple of ideas for those that have a little extra to spend on their wheelchair. My wife is an active user and likes the outdoors so rather than compromise too much on one chair, we now have an indoor very lightweight narrow one and a slightly more robust one for outdoors. The outdoor one we fit with a freewheel unit that attaches to the front giving you a 24" wheel that lifts the caster wheels off the ground so you can traverse loose gravel, grass and higher kerbs without the caster wheels digging in. Not cheap (approx £500) but well worth it. We are also using loopwheels for outdoor main wheels, which have large flexible loops to attach the wheel hub to the rim instead of spokes. The loops flex over bumps giving you a degree of suspension and a softer ride. Expensive again but if you are in the chair for the rest of your life.......
My chair is a TY and I like it.... however it was measured wrong... these chairs are custom built so measurements are crucial there are no do overs. I think your videos are totally hilarious and very informative keep making them thanks.
An idea for you - there are power drives and power assist drives that can make a manual chair more usable and easier on the body. I use an e-fix by Alber and it’s great. Takes a manual chair and turns it into a fully powered chair with a joystick.
Thank you for this, I’m choosing my first wheel baby and I’m really excited about it, but have no idea what to choose or what’s good and annoying when in use…..this is really valuable, thank you!
I chose an electric. I live in Maine. No one told me you can’t take electrics out in the rain and they do not work in ice, slush or snow. Eight months out of the year, it’s a paperweight.
Yes I watched all. My Dr has ordered a manual w/c, but it's probably regular. I'm not a regular w/c person. I will need thorn resistant tires like I have on my trike and recumbent. Some info I knew, and some didn't. Thanks
I'm going completely off topic here and mention how absolutely gorgeous you look! Your hair...oh my...♥ Be well friend, and thanks for all your inspiring work.
I'm on my wife's e-mail I'm a L2 paraplegic from the waste down I'm in my 1st chair and cannot get any help to get a new chair I'm in a manual chair ur video helped me so much I got the worst help and chair ever 😭 ur videos are amazing
Hey, Amanda's husband: Have you got another wheel chair? I got a false one, too! So l needed another one and my doc helped. So l got a new recipe and l'm thrilled cause today my first speach for the new wheelchair is going real! Tell me, is everything ok now for you or can l help you?
Wheelchair width is super important as well, I see so many who sit in way too wide chairs and that makes pushing a lot more difficult as you have your arms further out from your body. A snug yet not tight seat gives a more ergonomically correct push which will save your shoulders and arms. Type of backrest is another important choice to make, rigid or slingback? I have the latter but have put the inner shell of my Aspen Vista TLSO brace in my chair to get better positioning and comfort, am going to switch to rigid backrest but I’m lazy and really hate calling my occupational therapist who deals with the contact with the wheelchair place, and I hate to say it but my occupational therapist is absolutely clueless when it comes to wheelchairs... I have a whole list of things that needs to be considered when getting a wheelchair and help friends as much as I can, be it just coming up with good arguments to use when talking with occupational therapists and general advice. OT’s really love high backrests and every extra gadget in the book (like armrests, breaks handled by a carer and whatnot)
Ohh good points. My back rest is low, and rigid. I love it and it works much better for me. Oh yeah my OT was so clueless too. She came over (for adaptation updates in my house) before she went she asked if there is anything else she could help with, I said i get so cold in winter, is there anything I can do? (like some special wheelchair foot muff or something, anything lol) she said. Oh umm, put on an extra layer! *eye roll*
Thank you I just got measured for my first wheelchair today. Never thought I'd be using one, I currently use a roller assisted Walker but I have my bad days and that's what the wheelchair comes in thank you for the video.
Great video, all so true. Only tip I wish I would have took notice of is folding handles, that extra 3 inches would have been the difference between getting my chair in fully assembled without dropping the back seats. It’s amazing how much difference a decent chair makes. I am an amputee and got a quickie 2 through the nhs. Made life so much easier
I saw a mother that can be attached to the back side and turn a manual into an electric for those times when like you said your on a long trip. As much as I want a power chair I do think they all are to big to get around a tiny house. Thank you for the great info.
"Hi" Gem, I treated myself to a wheelchair, it's cool, I bought it on eBay, it came from China, anyway it is Manuel, & it has alloy wheels, it has a low back, it has velcro straps, which means you can adjust the width, & at the back it has stabilisers, because I'm not comfortable doing wheelies yet. I can walk a bit, but as I'm getting older, walking is getting a struggle for me, my dad adviced me to get a wheelchair. Anyway love watching your videos of Wheels no Heels. Anyway I'm quite happy with my wheelchair for now.🙂
Ah yes, my handle bars are built into the backrest of the chair to save on weight but everyone complains about how short they are. I think next time I’ll skip them (will save on strangers gravitating to the back of my chair to push me without permission!) and get some removable adjustable ones if that’s a possibility because I don’t need them that often, especially with hopefully getting a Smart Drive approved for funding soon. I agree about the low back! I was so surprised to find that I felt much more comfortable and supported with a low back than a higher one, even with my level of fatigue, plus it gets in the way a lot less. I like my rigid frame. It works for me because I usually have at least one other seat in my vehicle, if not all of them, empty, and mine is just a monotube so it sits on a seat just like a pair of legs would. lol It was also advised because apparently you lose less efficiency in a rigid frame than in one that folds, which means less energy to propel it. I can see the pros and cons of each though.
Doh I just ordered my new chair this morning hope I did right it is my first paid for chair I have only had wheelchair services ones before I was going to get a power assist too but it was so easy I didn't bother I got a pantera s3 on its way I'm super excited
I recently bought a wheelchair as I dislocate. I went for a fold up aluminium manual that is totally adjustable. ETAC cross5 about 2 grand. I really need an electric but the E-fix motimor is 8 grand so I want to buy a Firefly front wheel one day which is 2 grand. Now I want to decorate it as it all black and fit some bags that may make it look like a Panda theme. The emotional side has been the worse as I was very sporty and even took my girls camping w/o my hubby. I even owned my own Landrover Defender and drove it off road in UK. Now I can barely walk to the car.1 I feel useless and a burden to my family.
This video is really helpful. I was paraplegic, right after surgery. So, my insurance has supplied me with a paraplegic wheel chair every year, for the past two years. Now, after therapy, I’m like 87% the girl I was. I want a manual wheelchair, now that it’s been two years. I think I maybe could handle it.
Being American, I have no idea what rehab hospitals are like in the U.K. But, my best experience with getting a wheelchair was when I went to my local rehab hospital, where I was evaluated for exactly what I needed all in one go; rather than relying on my own trial and error guess work, or a rep who was simply trying to sell products that treated common, superficial, issues without addressing the underlying causes of those issues.
Thank you for this video! I wanted Spinergy LX Wheels *SO* badly, but ... alas, they aren't covered AT ALL by insurance, and they are VERY spendy. I got a few other options (such as tires, casters... anodizing... but at the end of the day, I couldn't end up justifying the wheels. I *DID* however justify a SmartDrive. Insurance will pay part of it, and I decided it was ultimately more important than the wheels I wanted, lol. Have you ever looked into one of those? It might be worthwhile on your next chair!
Well, i love my arm rests. When not needed, i can take them off. I also have spinergy wheels. I had spoked wheels for a few years and suffered with those horrors. When i got spinergies, they turned my wheel chair into a sports car. Have had the same pair for 17 years and only now i need to replace the bearings. No big deal. I always tell folks to get spinergies with the true conviction that they will alter your life specially if you have been dealings with spokes.
I have a power chair and now a manual because I need my power chair but it’s too bulky for inside, my manual chair gave me so much inspiration though and my Boyfriend who’s a marine is a huge inspiration- if he can do what he does for training alone, I can learn and work to make things work for me. Your channel name and beautiful hair and nice clothes and full life as a mum gave me so much inspiration for my own channel revamp as well as my everyday life. So thank you. My kids are so much happier too now mummy isn’t zombied because all her energy went into staying upright. I went for a German made off road chair for my daily chair because I live in a really badly “maintained” area with literally 4 accessibility things (inside my eldest sons school, 1 sunk kerb, 1 lowered kerb both kerbs people park at constantly, and 1 disability toilet in Asda- I did discuss it with my MP a few years ago and should be getting pavement dips put in my area by the end of 2020 now I just need to work out how to get up all the stairs outside my flat 😂 I’m actually looking forward to the challenge, kinda)
I've recently been informed I'll be in a wheelchair the rest of my life due to a spinal chord injury healing wrong. If you have any tips I'd love to have a conversation with you. Thank you❤
Hi, how about anti-tip bars. I was always falling backwards out of my chair before I got them. In fact the NHS insisted when I got my NHS wheelchair because of it. They do make wheelies hard though so definately a trai-off.
I so wish I had watched a video like this when I got my wheelchair in 2007. It had become almost emergent that I needed one, that my parents really didn’t do any research. Not so mention I was on 13 years old and didn’t really understand much myself. I am still using that wheelchair when I need to, but if I ever need to get a new one this definitely really helps!
I feel like it's not such a choice anymore between manual and electric when you have power assist options. Smartdrive clip on units or systems built into the wheels like edrive.
Yeah thats true. I didn't talk about those as options as i don't have experience with them, How ever i would LOVE a smart drive. They are very expensive here in the UK and there is no help to buy them. Do you have one?
Wheelsnoheels - Gem Hubbard I have a smartdrive and I can go everywhere now! Even on grass and stuff! I really love it. Sometimes the watch is a bit hard to use (it does not respond or responds to sensitive) but soooo much better than nothing ❤️
I reeeeeally wanted a smartdrive to upgrade my manual, but the cheapest I could find it cost more than the Powerchair I ended up going for. (Freedom chair A08L, I looove it.)
Hi Gem, have you heard of a semi electric ,it is carbon fibre , the motor attaches when you require it and is controlled by Bluetooth, plus being transgender when I use the chair is the only time I can wear my heels as I am pretty unsteady on my feet in heels due to my cerebral palsy
I don't have insurance and live in the US and needed a very lightweight wheelchair to help me around campus. I purchased a use wheelchair that was custom made for someone else that was being sold. It's not a perfect fit and I need to make some adaptations to make it work for me, otherwise O'm going to need to replace it with something that fits me a little bit better.
I had a non active user folding wheelchair (useless for mobility, but at least it got me out with someone pushing me) (also not cheap, nearly 500, though they start at 150ish, but it made no difference to self propelling but a lot to comfort as it turned out as I started with one borrowed from the Red Cross) that had armrests and I found that very supportive, but when I was investigating buying an active chair, everyone was very down on armrests and said that if I really needed that support then they wouldn't advise using armrests to provide it buy to get a back that had the proper shaping to support me and that obviously that would cost more and and weigh more. I decided to go without and it's helped me get stronger, I used to find I had barely enough abdominal strength to use the steering knob that goes with hand controls and now that's no problem at all. Although I've only actually had my wheelchair 21 months, it's barely 2.5 years until I need to start the process of getting a replacement, as that will begin with getting a referral to wheelchair services, possibly finding that doesn't exist in our region again - it didn't for several months whilst I was stuck immobile with the folding chair, then getting that appointment, then arguing about funding, I keep getting you can walk a few steps, we don't care you pelvis is really unstable etc. as a reason to deny full funding for an active user chair. They accept I have seating needs which is why they'll pay for a more expensive non active user chair, which has tension adjustable straps on both the bottom and the back (that was the most useful thing about the assessment as I'd never heard of them). Last time I then went to a shop which sold active user chairs, but having heard of your experiences I think I'll be asking for details of the companies you have used. From your video I've learnt of the different break actions and I might try and switch as I have good hand movement, but not strength. Comments on the video - aren't most footplates adjustable? it's the one thing we can do at home, and yours looked the same, you probably can't do 2 inches if you change cushion by 2 inch to 4 inch, but 2 inch to 3 inch is probably doable depending on how much ground clearance you specified. I also didn't know much about leg angle, mine is pretty neutral, however, from what you've said I think I might be like you and prefer a slight stick out, however I have noticed when wheeling that if I want to make it easier on myself it's best if I bring my legs as far back as possible, so the comfort/mobility balance is difficult to find.
There is a learning curve to use a wheelchair it not a simple thing tipping your wheelchair at the wrong place and time can happen! I roll into a small hole that I had not seen because the grass cover it up I hit the hole with just one wheel at 2 in the morning by myself and I went down like a ton of bricks! I also tip over backward twice will after the first time I had thought I fix that issue only to find out I had not! The more you know!
Most important thing is ADJUSTABILITY of center of gravity(which you have on both your chairs) also backrest angel adjuted, and legrest highet adjustment. Thats the most criticals of a chair, to anyone i think My extras are looks(I love a 90° legframe, and im loving GOLD or any sparkling colour, If it must be bland so I add billet gold whwels or better yet my softwheel wheels with suspention :)
I have to use a powerchair and Lord above...so expensive. I've currently got mine through motability...it is worth about 7 grand and it doesn't have all the features I need either lol
I have a titanium active user rigid manual chair I got from NHS. My disability doesn't really tolerate the manual though...even smart drive wouldn't work for me. Good to have a manual though as powerchair aren't always possible to transport in a car
Thanks for sharing. :) wow 7 grand!!! You win lol. I talk about how shocked people are in my "stupid things people say about my disability" video lol. People really don't believe that you have to pay for it. It really sucks at how expensive having a disability is. And its *alot* harder for us to work. Oh well hey ho!!! Keep on rolling. ;)
Same I’m in a wheelchair. I have Cerebral palsy and dystonia. If you don’t know what dystonia is it is a numerological muscle condition causing my muscles to spasm uncontrollably. I’ve had it since birth after I was born prematurely.
@@ecologist_to_be l've got a normal foldable chair AND additively a M 25 by Alber! That's it: the heels are electrified, the motor and the accu is in each wheel! So your chair you got (standard or active /adaptive wheelchair) turns into ae electrified wheelchair! You can bush yourself wieth help up to 80% less power needed! And,second, you can make it be a chair roling alone! You needn't push till you must take the break. Then you push hard two to the speet you want and it goes on and on. You turn loft/right like always with manual chairs, you use your hands atthe rims for break/stop and you have so much help! So you can use your chair you now drive and they put on some little thngs to fit the new powered electrified wheels on it. You can loosen them the same way like you do it with your wheelz. It's fantastic and you get it in any car! I only drive a Cia Picanto, 5 doors. If it fits in here, it fits everywhere! Be blessed!
One more thing is the amount of wheel traction I got one with the solid wheels because that's all that brand carries and is had no traction so I would be going up the really steep ramps at school and it would rain and I would be push forward and the wheels would be going forward but I would be slipping and sliding back down that was not helpful
You didn't talk about handrims, which kinda why I wanted to watch this video, I'm trying to get a new wheelchair but handrim is something I'm stuck on right now
Sorry about that. All my chairs have had aluminium and rims. But I’ve recently started using these th-cam.com/video/vy5rg46R4Ak/w-d-xo.html And I can’t recommend them highly enough. 💜
I'm electively, becoming an ambulatory wheelchair user, hopefully, not too far in the distant future. Several factors and physical health concerns have led me to the conclusion I could have been suffering with Chronic Fatigue syndrome or ME without knowing I have it, from a very young age, possibly, even from birth 37 years ago. the sheer, exhausttion of walking no more than 2 miles with seized knees and ankle joints, plus mild back problems, plus, dizzy spells, which I can't explain to myself as well as other people, periods of both, exhausttion and Insomnia meeting in the middle, resulting in sleep paralysis on both waking and falling asleep again, I have balance problems which have become a lot more of a concern, since I have fallen forward several times, both indoors and outdoors, fallen over curbs at an angle, tripped over the dog bed and wet myself with the impact of hitting the floor, I broke a plastic bath when I slipped over and hit the bottom on both knees when I lived in a ground floor flat, the latest fall sending me crashing down the bottom 4 steps to the first floor landing of my house I smashed my left hand into the stackable shoe storage boxes under the coat pegs there, splitting the skin on my left hand and little finger in 4 places so it bled everywhere. Lymphoedema in both legs and 5 extra stones of excess body fluid down there could also be the reason why my balance is failing to this extent. I have been researching whether a mannual chair or powerchair would suit me better, bearing in mind, I am also vision impaired and use a white stick in one hand. I know two girls who went to School with me, now both using powerchairs. The girl who was my room mate started out using a mannual chair and she pushed with her feet so she could use her white stick to feel where she was going, but she bumped into both things and people, wheelchair and all, so it was me who suggested she should try a powerchair. Thank god. She zips around and just bounces off everything in that chair, which I think, she bought from a new and used disabled gear online shop, not quite the same as Ebay, but with some of the same features as Ebay. Mannual wheelchairs seem to be a lot more customisable and more compact than powerchairs are, although, you can also choose pavement scooters, which I'm also looking into, since I need one mode of transport which is small enough to fit into a small storage space and also, into a very small car foot well or passenger seat. I'm at the point where I'm shortlisting some products I want to reconsider and go back to them for multiple viewings.
Does the folding vs ridged affect the way it works at all or literally just storing/transporting? I have a second hand chair and I’m going to get a custom chair soon and I’m not sure which kind would be best.
That’s amazing, I had no clue there were so many options. Thank you for opening my eyes to a new world. I would definitely need a spot to hang a backpack or handbag, otherwise I’d go crazy. Lol. I carry so much crap around. I feel it would be hard to keep your hands clean, did you find that with Covid?
I have a Quickie Neon that I cannot use anymore because it was badly measured. It is too narrow, causing crushing in my "gentleman's area". I've had to revert to a heavy NHS crate. Any tips on selling an old chair?
Well my old chair was titanium. and my new one is carbon. I wanted carbon as I wanted it to be as light as possible. Im loving my carbon char. Ive had it for about 18 months. I hope this helps? If you would like I can put the question to the community and you can see what others have to say? Just le me know. x
@@Wheelsnoheels how does the titanium chair hold up vs cf with the normal daily bumps? Also can you recall the name, I'm guessing it's not the davinci... Thanks for your thoughts :D
ahhh thank you so much. do let me know if you have another video ideas. Also feel free to come and join me on instagram. Oh id love a smart drive but i have just spent thousands on a new chair. Ill have to get saving. :)
Wheelsnoheels Oh man you’re right, it’s expensive but it’s definitely the best disability tool I’ve ever acquired. Can you apply for some help with the funding via Access To Work or Aspire or somewhere like that?
OOooo thats a good idea. I once got a very small grant from access to work, but i work from home now. So not sure I would get it? whats Aspire? Ill have to check that out. Ill look into it, thats a good idea, I have thought about just giving or crowed funding, but I'm not sure if it sits right with me!!! don't know... might give it ago, you can only ask hey!! thanks hun. x
Wheelsnoheels Oh I know what you mean, I felt exactly the same re crowdfunding (tho you have a fab channel and I’m sure in return for your hair tips and tricks people would be willing to donate a few pennies?) Access to Work should still be able to help if you’re self employed; I guess the issue is it would be a bit harder to justify the costs of a tool that propels you if you don’t have to leave your house to *get* to work, but y’know, worth asking! Aspire is an SCI Charity www.aspire.org.uk/i-have-an-sci There is a waiting list for their grants but you can but ask! Are there any other charities/trust funds in your area you could apply to for help with the cost? Turn2Us is a great tool for grant finding; grants-search.turn2us.org.uk/ Hope you find some pennies to put towards it because it’s been a life changer for me, and I’ve only had it two weeks 🙈 (The Hospital is work in is huuuuuuuge so already I’m whizzing between clinics and wards much easier than before!)
@@LizzyFerretOfficial But you do work out of home Gem! Every time you film at a supermarket/beach boardwalk./Disney or crappy tilted wobbly street that is working away from home so maybe plug that with Access to Work????
I have a chronic illness, EDS, that, along with few other comorbidities, has caused me to need a wheelchair part-time. I need an ultra-light weight one because my shoulders and wrists dislocate easily, but we're on a very tight budget. My insurance won't cover the costs due to it only being needed part-time, so we're kinda stuck. If anyone has any advice, it would be super appreciated, as this has been nearly a year long struggle now
Gem, did you manage to get any help with the cost of your chair? I have recently been reassessed for an NHS one and I foolishly thought that they would be able to supply one with at least some useful functions but alas not, the only thin it had going for it was 4 wheels and 2 of those were too big (massive castors). If I decide not to go with their chair they will be able to give me a voucher of around £200 towards one. Also do you have a back tilt angle on the actual seat part of the chair? I couldn’t tell from the way your chairs were positioned.
I have a different chair to Gem and viewed a few other different brands, recline was something I was looking for as I was worried about the tight angle of the hip, but it seems that it's not really something that exists in active user chairs, which seems a bit odd to me as when I look closely at the way the back is joined to the seat it has a release mechanism to fold it down, but it doesn't seem as it it would add much weight to change that to a mechanism that would go both ways and then lock where you wanted it.
Hi there, I have a whole playlist with my recent wheelchair videos. This is my current chair…th-cam.com/video/xV1z6PX3X-4/w-d-xo.htmlsi=sPPeDX4seiVdrzZ8
Not me replaying this cuz my concentration had lost you but then only realising after the 5th time of replaying oh I haven't got my subtitles on that might help! If you can relate comment below! 😂😂😂
You were misinformed about the carbon wheels. Carbon can be repaired very effectively. There's several carbon repair companies in the UK, for example www.carboncyclerepairs.co.uk/index.html
The funny one is when they decide to make it bigger assuming you will gain more weight. Not funny haha, funny odd. And then there is the idea you will be wearing a big jacket. Eh those light up caster wheels I have seen them before, probably not the same brand, and they were not scooter wheels they were made for the wheelchairs, but hey so long as they work.
I have EDS and I need a wheelchair. They want to put me in a regular standard or transport chair like I have now from a local shop. So not much better but added cushion. They want to do this because I’m fat 😕😔😢. I’ve had an eating disorder so hearing that my weight is an issue in me getting a chair is hard. They didn’t call me fat but they mentioned my weight through the whole talk which pointed towards that assumption. They aren’t looking into a manual/light/less bulky wheelchair for me at all. I also don’t get to choose what it looks like if I wanted color idk.. or smart drive because my shoulders get sore fast and dislocate. The won’t even allow electric. One of my doctors even said I didn’t need a wheelchair when I clearly can’t stand for even 3 seconds with out pain and subluxations in my knees,hips and ankles mostly knees. Even my PT says I need one. Btw the talk was with the pt and wheelchair person at my doctors. The wheelchair person kept talking about my weight and not being very understanding about my situation. On top of that the wheel chair I have now is heavy and bulky especially for my grandmother who is almost 70 to pick up and put in the car so I’m also hoping for a lighter one for her sake and for my sake in the future if I have to pick it up myself. There is so way I could pick up the wheelchair I have right now with out dislocating. Help? What should I say or do? I don’t want to be needy or seem judgmental for questioning them on why I can’t get a manual
Wrt the footplate, while you’re right about the circulation, but I’d advise anyone with a connective tissue disorder or any sort of dislocations in their hips or knees to avoid that!
Cat Maxil Edwards thank you! I am about to get my first chair due to eds and an undiagnosed neurological condition, I would have bought one much more expensive if I hadn't seen this comment, I've managed to get a second hand (only used a handful of times) one for £150 rather than buying new (the same chair but with different footplate and armrests) for £650. I thought I'd come back to this video and thank you for helping me
Rachel Lazenby congrats on the chair! I just got a manual myself as a compliment to my power chair. Honestly w eds (which is what I have too so same hat! I have clEDS w vascular cross) it’s a good idea to have a power one handy. With my power one I ditched the footplate entirely and I use cheap pantyhose instead, wrapped around both columns. Works really well for keeping my legs in (ankles behind knees and knees above hips is my motto).
I have a scooter but it's cumbersome and I can't take it on the train into town which is where the chair comes in, when it arrives I'll be sure to do all of the adjustments once it arrives! I'm hEDS with classical and vascular crossovers so similar position, thank you so much for your advice
oh and don't be put off if you get it and everything is awkward and uncomfortable for a bit because theres a learning curve with figuring out exactly how you like it. if you ever get frustrated or feel discouraged while getting used to it, just know that ive had my chair since 2014 and i only worked out last week that i can raise both the arm rests and sit cross legged on the train
Commander Maxil, I don't understand your reasoning behind this, why is sticking out more likely to cause dislocations? I really try to get my knees below my hips because although I have EDS, it's not the primary reason I use a wheelchair, I have hip abnormalities that means keeping a tight hip angle can be very painful (though as my muscles are weakening and I'm not stressing it at that angle it's actually a lot better than it has been in the past). My arms are actually a lot more unstable than my legs (though my legs still score their points on the beighton score).
Agreed .. I used to wear heels 5 days a week, but haven't been able to in the last few years. I am ready to admit that I need a wheelchair, and my first thought was, " I can wear heels again!"
Don't buy a chair without Anti tip wheels and handles.... I Did and I have Zero protection for the back of my head... If I over cook it. That said I'm not a fan of fixed Anti tip wheels..
Why is your channel called wheelsnoheels and not 'notheels'? Sorry this really bugs me grammatically so would be interesting to hear how you chose that name
I’ve just got my own first personal wheelchair after years of being stubborn and being pigheaded. I’ve missed out on so much that all my family kept onto me and threatened that they all would go to my doctor to get this sorted. I gave in and finally spoke to my ( Brilliant ) Doctor who was really understanding and understands it’s not all about that BLUE BADGE like so many others. My first chair is a NHS wheelchair so not much choice but let’s not forget that this is provided for free so no gripes here. Thank to the NHS I’ve finally will maybe be able to do some of the things I have missed.
Can you make a video on things you have re-learn how to do in a wheelchair? Like opening doors, getting in/out of cars, picking up items, etc. I’m new to wheelchair life and feel totally lost when it comes to do some every day things.
thank you so much for your suggestion. These are all on my list, so stay subbed, They will be coming up soon.
I have how I shower & do my hair
How to pick things up.
How to get in and out of the car
and how to open doors,
and how to push people in wheelchairs. :)
I'm coming to terms with needing a wheelchair so thanks for the tips.
Your welcome. I hope my channel with help you. Any questions just message me on insta or twitter. :)
@@Wheelsnoheels fortunately us men don't need WC's because in the world according to "girlie tube" us men don't suffer spinal injuries because ALL of t he videos I've seen from paralysis to0 cystic fibrosis ALL INVOLVE strictly FEMALES!!!
What is the most important thing you look for when buying a new chair? There were a few other points that i didn't have time to mention, such as camber, and "tipsiness" of the chair, Don't forget to give me a thumbs up!! xx
Wheelsnoheels - Gem Hubbard I am considering a wheelchair for my CFS and growing list of disabilities and I am doing all my research. You make having a wheelchair look exciting and fun! Just subscribed today!
I'm in my 60's, so not necessarily a lot in common with yourself. I can only walk approx 40 yards before I have to stop. (Walking at home isn't really a problem) I can walk as far as my car but can't make it round say a supermarket or to the shops, so seriously considering buying a chair which would enable me to get out more. Thank you so much for this video, you've given me a lot to consider before purchasing.
OH HOW I WISH THIS WAS AROUND WHEN I GOT MY FIRST CHAIR. I think I'm going to post a video like this too. It's just so important.
I used to have the light up casters and I LOVED them. The issue is that they get caught on every bump so I have larger casters (that dont light up) so they are much smoother. Nothing will ever look as cool though.
Riley Lyn you can find different sizes of light up casters! 😎
Thanks Gem, just a couple of ideas for those that have a little extra to spend on their wheelchair. My wife is an active user and likes the outdoors so rather than compromise too much on one chair, we now have an indoor very lightweight narrow one and a slightly more robust one for outdoors. The outdoor one we fit with a freewheel unit that attaches to the front giving you a 24" wheel that lifts the caster wheels off the ground so you can traverse loose gravel, grass and higher kerbs without the caster wheels digging in. Not cheap (approx £500) but well worth it. We are also using loopwheels for outdoor main wheels, which have large flexible loops to attach the wheel hub to the rim instead of spokes. The loops flex over bumps giving you a degree of suspension and a softer ride. Expensive again but if you are in the chair for the rest of your life.......
My chair is a TY and I like it.... however it was measured wrong... these chairs are custom built so measurements are crucial there are no do overs. I think your videos are totally hilarious and very informative keep making them thanks.
Thank you. Im glad your enjoying them. x
Thanks Gem! I'm going next week for my fitting appointment for my first custom wheelchair, and these tips were really helpful!
An idea for you - there are power drives and power assist drives that can make a manual chair more usable and easier on the body. I use an e-fix by Alber and it’s great. Takes a manual chair and turns it into a fully powered chair with a joystick.
Thank you for this, I’m choosing my first wheel baby and I’m really excited about it, but have no idea what to choose or what’s good and annoying when in use…..this is really valuable, thank you!
I had a standard wheelchair and I now got a active wheelchair thanks for the vlog it helped me to find a new wheelchair
so glad it was helpful. xx
Thank you! It was a great overview for what things I need to consider with my first wheelchair. I was unaware of the leg angle options.
I chose an electric. I live in Maine. No one told me you can’t take electrics out in the rain and they do not work in ice, slush or snow. Eight months out of the year, it’s a paperweight.
"Lean back.....Hair flip......" How cute!! LOL
Yes I watched all. My Dr has ordered a manual w/c, but it's probably regular. I'm not a regular w/c person. I will need thorn resistant tires like I have on my trike and recumbent. Some info I knew, and some didn't. Thanks
I'm going completely off topic here and mention how absolutely gorgeous you look! Your hair...oh my...♥ Be well friend, and thanks for all your inspiring work.
Aww thank you so much. :)
I'm on my wife's e-mail I'm a L2 paraplegic from the waste down I'm in my 1st chair and cannot get any help to get a new chair I'm in a manual chair ur video helped me so much I got the worst help and chair ever 😭 ur videos are amazing
Hey, Amanda's husband: Have you got another wheel chair?
I got a false one, too! So l needed another one and my doc helped. So l got a new recipe and l'm thrilled cause today my first speach for the new wheelchair is going real! Tell me, is everything ok now for you or can l help you?
Wheelchair width is super important as well, I see so many who sit in way too wide chairs and that makes pushing a lot more difficult as you have your arms further out from your body. A snug yet not tight seat gives a more ergonomically correct push which will save your shoulders and arms. Type of backrest is another important choice to make, rigid or slingback? I have the latter but have put the inner shell of my Aspen Vista TLSO brace in my chair to get better positioning and comfort, am going to switch to rigid backrest but I’m lazy and really hate calling my occupational therapist who deals with the contact with the wheelchair place, and I hate to say it but my occupational therapist is absolutely clueless when it comes to wheelchairs...
I have a whole list of things that needs to be considered when getting a wheelchair and help friends as much as I can, be it just coming up with good arguments to use when talking with occupational therapists and general advice. OT’s really love high backrests and every extra gadget in the book (like armrests, breaks handled by a carer and whatnot)
Ohh good points. My back rest is low, and rigid. I love it and it works much better for me.
Oh yeah my OT was so clueless too. She came over (for adaptation updates in my house) before she went she asked if there is anything else she could help with, I said i get so cold in winter, is there anything I can do? (like some special wheelchair foot muff or something, anything lol) she said. Oh umm, put on an extra layer! *eye roll*
At some point in my CRPs life. I will need an electric wheelchair. This video has been very helpful.
Thank you I just got measured for my first wheelchair today. Never thought I'd be using one, I currently use a roller assisted Walker but I have my bad days and that's what the wheelchair comes in thank you for the video.
Great video, all so true. Only tip I wish I would have took notice of is folding handles, that extra 3 inches would have been the difference between getting my chair in fully assembled without dropping the back seats. It’s amazing how much difference a decent chair makes. I am an amputee and got a quickie 2 through the nhs. Made life so much easier
I saw a mother that can be attached to the back side and turn a manual into an electric for those times when like you said your on a long trip. As much as I want a power chair I do think they all are to big to get around a tiny house. Thank you for the great info.
Thanks for making this video I am coming to terms with needing a wheelchair
"Hi" Gem, I treated myself to a wheelchair, it's cool, I bought it on eBay, it came from China, anyway it is Manuel, & it has alloy wheels, it has a low back, it has velcro straps, which means you can adjust the width, & at the back it has stabilisers, because I'm not comfortable doing wheelies yet. I can walk a bit, but as I'm getting older, walking is getting a struggle for me, my dad adviced me to get a wheelchair. Anyway love watching your videos of Wheels no Heels.
Anyway I'm quite happy with my wheelchair for now.🙂
Well done. I really hope this will be useful to a lot of people. :)
Thank you so much. yes i hope so too. :)
Thank you very much for this. I hadn't considered a custom chair until last night, so vids like this are super helpful.
I’ve been using a wheelchair since I was little and I can only get manual but I prefer it bc I can get more places and be ruff 😂
Ah yes, my handle bars are built into the backrest of the chair to save on weight but everyone complains about how short they are. I think next time I’ll skip them (will save on strangers gravitating to the back of my chair to push me without permission!) and get some removable adjustable ones if that’s a possibility because I don’t need them that often, especially with hopefully getting a Smart Drive approved for funding soon. I agree about the low back! I was so surprised to find that I felt much more comfortable and supported with a low back than a higher one, even with my level of fatigue, plus it gets in the way a lot less. I like my rigid frame. It works for me because I usually have at least one other seat in my vehicle, if not all of them, empty, and mine is just a monotube so it sits on a seat just like a pair of legs would. lol It was also advised because apparently you lose less efficiency in a rigid frame than in one that folds, which means less energy to propel it. I can see the pros and cons of each though.
Doh I just ordered my new chair this morning hope I did right it is my first paid for chair I have only had wheelchair services ones before I was going to get a power assist too but it was so easy I didn't bother I got a pantera s3 on its way I'm super excited
as a paraplegic myself, this was very informative.
awww thank you. :)
"Wheel babes." I love it! What about mono-tube versus dual-tube and pushrims?
Thank you I’m getting my first manual wheelchair your tips are fantastic.
thank you for this video! me and my family are going to get me a new wheelchair and I didn't know what wheelchair I wanted and this helped!
Hopeully getting a wheelchair today in a few hours so I found this very helpful!
I recently bought a wheelchair as I dislocate. I went for a fold up aluminium manual that is totally adjustable.
ETAC cross5 about 2 grand.
I really need an electric but the E-fix motimor is 8 grand so I want to buy a Firefly front wheel one day which is 2 grand.
Now I want to decorate it as it all black and fit some bags that may make it look like a Panda theme.
The emotional side has been the worse as I was very sporty and even took my girls camping w/o my hubby.
I even owned my own Landrover Defender and drove it off road in UK.
Now I can barely walk to the car.1
I feel useless and a burden to my family.
This video is really helpful. I was paraplegic, right after surgery. So, my insurance has supplied me with a paraplegic wheel chair every year, for the past two years. Now, after therapy, I’m like 87% the girl I was. I want a manual wheelchair, now that it’s been two years. I think I maybe could handle it.
Being American, I have no idea what rehab hospitals are like in the U.K. But, my best experience with getting a wheelchair was when I went to my local rehab hospital, where I was evaluated for exactly what I needed all in one go; rather than relying on my own trial and error guess work, or a rep who was simply trying to sell products that treated common, superficial, issues without addressing the underlying causes of those issues.
Thank you for this video! I wanted Spinergy LX Wheels *SO* badly, but ... alas, they aren't covered AT ALL by insurance, and they are VERY spendy. I got a few other options (such as tires, casters... anodizing... but at the end of the day, I couldn't end up justifying the wheels.
I *DID* however justify a SmartDrive. Insurance will pay part of it, and I decided it was ultimately more important than the wheels I wanted, lol. Have you ever looked into one of those? It might be worthwhile on your next chair!
How do you get wheelchair accesment is it your GP or consultant or should ask both ?
Well, i love my arm rests. When not needed, i can take them off. I also have spinergy wheels. I had spoked wheels for a few years and suffered with those horrors. When i got spinergies, they turned my wheel chair into a sports car. Have had the same pair for 17 years and only now i need to replace the bearings. No big deal. I always tell folks to get spinergies with the true conviction that they will alter your life specially if you have been dealings with spokes.
I have a power chair and now a manual because I need my power chair but it’s too bulky for inside, my manual chair gave me so much inspiration though and my Boyfriend who’s a marine is a huge inspiration- if he can do what he does for training alone, I can learn and work to make things work for me. Your channel name and beautiful hair and nice clothes and full life as a mum gave me so much inspiration for my own channel revamp as well as my everyday life. So thank you. My kids are so much happier too now mummy isn’t zombied because all her energy went into staying upright. I went for a German made off road chair for my daily chair because I live in a really badly “maintained” area with literally 4 accessibility things (inside my eldest sons school, 1 sunk kerb, 1 lowered kerb both kerbs people park at constantly, and 1 disability toilet in Asda- I did discuss it with my MP a few years ago and should be getting pavement dips put in my area by the end of 2020 now I just need to work out how to get up all the stairs outside my flat 😂 I’m actually looking forward to the challenge, kinda)
I've recently been informed I'll be in a wheelchair the rest of my life due to a spinal chord injury healing wrong. If you have any tips I'd love to have a conversation with you. Thank you❤
Hi, how about anti-tip bars. I was always falling backwards out of my chair before I got them. In fact the NHS insisted when I got my NHS wheelchair because of it. They do make wheelies hard though so definately a trai-off.
I so wish I had watched a video like this when I got my wheelchair in 2007. It had become almost emergent that I needed one, that my parents really didn’t do any research. Not so mention I was on 13 years old and didn’t really understand much myself. I am still using that wheelchair when I need to, but if I ever need to get a new one this definitely really helps!
Oh man im so glad that this is helpful (even though a tad late!) good luck with everything. :) xxx
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE HELP
Hello again Gem. I had my wheelchair from the hospital and it is one you can push yourself
I feel like it's not such a choice anymore between manual and electric when you have power assist options. Smartdrive clip on units or systems built into the wheels like edrive.
Yeah thats true. I didn't talk about those as options as i don't have experience with them, How ever i would LOVE a smart drive. They are very expensive here in the UK and there is no help to buy them. Do you have one?
They cost as much as a wheelchair.
I just got my smart drive and absolutely love it!!!
Wheelsnoheels - Gem Hubbard I have a smartdrive and I can go everywhere now! Even on grass and stuff! I really love it. Sometimes the watch is a bit hard to use (it does not respond or responds to sensitive) but soooo much better than nothing ❤️
I reeeeeally wanted a smartdrive to upgrade my manual, but the cheapest I could find it cost more than the Powerchair I ended up going for. (Freedom chair A08L, I looove it.)
Hello Gem. I am in a wheelchair myself. In 2014 I fell and broke my right hip and also broke my right rib
Hi Gem, have you heard of a semi electric ,it is carbon fibre , the motor attaches when you require it and is controlled by Bluetooth, plus being transgender when I use the chair is the only time I can wear my heels as I am pretty unsteady on my feet in heels due to my cerebral palsy
Oh wow. That sounds really good, Yes I think I have seen something like that. Glad you get to wear your heels. :D
I don't have insurance and live in the US and needed a very lightweight wheelchair to help me around campus. I purchased a use wheelchair that was custom made for someone else that was being sold. It's not a perfect fit and I need to make some adaptations to make it work for me, otherwise O'm going to need to replace it with something that fits me a little bit better.
I had a non active user folding wheelchair (useless for mobility, but at least it got me out with someone pushing me) (also not cheap, nearly 500, though they start at 150ish, but it made no difference to self propelling but a lot to comfort as it turned out as I started with one borrowed from the Red Cross) that had armrests and I found that very supportive, but when I was investigating buying an active chair, everyone was very down on armrests and said that if I really needed that support then they wouldn't advise using armrests to provide it buy to get a back that had the proper shaping to support me and that obviously that would cost more and and weigh more. I decided to go without and it's helped me get stronger, I used to find I had barely enough abdominal strength to use the steering knob that goes with hand controls and now that's no problem at all. Although I've only actually had my wheelchair 21 months, it's barely 2.5 years until I need to start the process of getting a replacement, as that will begin with getting a referral to wheelchair services, possibly finding that doesn't exist in our region again - it didn't for several months whilst I was stuck immobile with the folding chair, then getting that appointment, then arguing about funding, I keep getting you can walk a few steps, we don't care you pelvis is really unstable etc. as a reason to deny full funding for an active user chair. They accept I have seating needs which is why they'll pay for a more expensive non active user chair, which has tension adjustable straps on both the bottom and the back (that was the most useful thing about the assessment as I'd never heard of them). Last time I then went to a shop which sold active user chairs, but having heard of your experiences I think I'll be asking for details of the companies you have used. From your video I've learnt of the different break actions and I might try and switch as I have good hand movement, but not strength. Comments on the video - aren't most footplates adjustable? it's the one thing we can do at home, and yours looked the same, you probably can't do 2 inches if you change cushion by 2 inch to 4 inch, but 2 inch to 3 inch is probably doable depending on how much ground clearance you specified. I also didn't know much about leg angle, mine is pretty neutral, however, from what you've said I think I might be like you and prefer a slight stick out, however I have noticed when wheeling that if I want to make it easier on myself it's best if I bring my legs as far back as possible, so the comfort/mobility balance is difficult to find.
Thank you for helping me decide
There is a learning curve to use a wheelchair it not a simple thing tipping your wheelchair at the wrong place and time can happen! I roll into a small hole that I had not seen because the grass cover it up I hit the hole with just one wheel at 2 in the morning by myself and I went down like a ton of bricks! I also tip over backward twice will after the first time I had thought I fix that issue only to find out I had not! The more you know!
Great video ive got a invacare action 4 with a alber efix 35 but really want a quickie neon 2 or xenon 2
Most important thing is ADJUSTABILITY of center of gravity(which you have on both your chairs) also backrest angel adjuted, and legrest highet adjustment. Thats the most criticals of a chair, to anyone i think
My extras are looks(I love a 90° legframe, and im loving GOLD or any sparkling colour, If it must be bland so I add billet gold whwels or better yet my softwheel wheels with suspention :)
I have a motion composite wheelchair. It is literally so comfy.
I have to use a powerchair and Lord above...so expensive. I've currently got mine through motability...it is worth about 7 grand and it doesn't have all the features I need either lol
I have a titanium active user rigid manual chair I got from NHS. My disability doesn't really tolerate the manual though...even smart drive wouldn't work for me. Good to have a manual though as powerchair aren't always possible to transport in a car
Thanks for sharing. :) wow 7 grand!!! You win lol. I talk about how shocked people are in my "stupid things people say about my disability" video lol. People really don't believe that you have to pay for it. It really sucks at how expensive having a disability is. And its *alot* harder for us to work. Oh well hey ho!!! Keep on rolling. ;)
Same I’m in a wheelchair. I have Cerebral palsy and dystonia. If you don’t know what dystonia is it is a numerological muscle condition causing my muscles to spasm uncontrollably. I’ve had it since birth after I was born prematurely.
My power chair was 17 thousand tho. Australia dollars
@@ecologist_to_be l've got a normal foldable chair AND additively a M 25 by Alber! That's it: the heels are electrified, the motor and the accu is in each wheel! So your chair you got (standard or active /adaptive wheelchair) turns into ae electrified wheelchair! You can bush yourself wieth help up to 80% less power needed! And,second, you can make it be a chair roling alone! You needn't push till you must take the break. Then you push hard two to the speet you want and it goes on and on. You turn loft/right like always with manual chairs, you use your hands atthe rims for break/stop and you have so much help! So you can use your chair you now drive and they put on some little thngs to fit the new powered electrified wheels on it. You can loosen them the same way like you do it with your wheelz. It's fantastic and you get it in any car! I only drive a Cia Picanto, 5 doors. If it fits in here, it fits everywhere! Be blessed!
One more thing is the amount of wheel traction I got one with the solid wheels because that's all that brand carries and is had no traction so I would be going up the really steep ramps at school and it would rain and I would be push forward and the wheels would be going forward but I would be slipping and sliding back down that was not helpful
Your so bubbly, love it.
You didn't talk about handrims, which kinda why I wanted to watch this video, I'm trying to get a new wheelchair but handrim is something I'm stuck on right now
Sorry about that. All my chairs have had aluminium and rims. But I’ve recently started using these th-cam.com/video/vy5rg46R4Ak/w-d-xo.html And I can’t recommend them highly enough. 💜
I'm electively, becoming an ambulatory wheelchair user, hopefully, not too far in the distant future. Several factors and physical health concerns have led me to the conclusion I could have been suffering with Chronic Fatigue syndrome or ME without knowing I have it, from a very young age, possibly, even from birth 37 years ago. the sheer, exhausttion of walking no more than 2 miles with seized knees and ankle joints, plus mild back problems, plus, dizzy spells, which I can't explain to myself as well as other people, periods of both, exhausttion and Insomnia meeting in the middle, resulting in sleep paralysis on both waking and falling asleep again, I have balance problems which have become a lot more of a concern, since I have fallen forward several times, both indoors and outdoors, fallen over curbs at an angle, tripped over the dog bed and wet myself with the impact of hitting the floor, I broke a plastic bath when I slipped over and hit the bottom on both knees when I lived in a ground floor flat, the latest fall sending me crashing down the bottom 4 steps to the first floor landing of my house I smashed my left hand into the stackable shoe storage boxes under the coat pegs there, splitting the skin on my left hand and little finger in 4 places so it bled everywhere. Lymphoedema in both legs and 5 extra stones of excess body fluid down there could also be the reason why my balance is failing to this extent. I have been researching whether a mannual chair or powerchair would suit me better, bearing in mind, I am also vision impaired and use a white stick in one hand. I know two girls who went to School with me, now both using powerchairs. The girl who was my room mate started out using a mannual chair and she pushed with her feet so she could use her white stick to feel where she was going, but she bumped into both things and people, wheelchair and all, so it was me who suggested she should try a powerchair. Thank god. She zips around and just bounces off everything in that chair, which I think, she bought from a new and used disabled gear online shop, not quite the same as Ebay, but with some of the same features as Ebay. Mannual wheelchairs seem to be a lot more customisable and more compact than powerchairs are, although, you can also choose pavement scooters, which I'm also looking into, since I need one mode of transport which is small enough to fit into a small storage space and also, into a very small car foot well or passenger seat. I'm at the point where I'm shortlisting some products I want to reconsider and go back to them for multiple viewings.
Does the folding vs ridged affect the way it works at all or literally just storing/transporting? I have a second hand chair and I’m going to get a custom chair soon and I’m not sure which kind would be best.
How long do keep yr wheelchair before u need a new one
I watched, I didn't hear the cost. If you could let us know the range, I would appreciate it. Thanks
The DaVinci was around £2500 and the carbon fibre was around £5000 thank you for watching. :)
Thank you that’s really informative
Oh that was really helpful Thanks 😊
That’s amazing, I had no clue there were so many options. Thank you for opening my eyes to a new world. I would definitely need a spot to hang a backpack or handbag, otherwise I’d go crazy. Lol. I carry so much crap around.
I feel it would be hard to keep your hands clean, did you find that with Covid?
hi, can you suggest some ways to raise money for the cost of custom chairs insurance in 2020 is not helpful. thank you!
I just wish there was a wheelchair shop, more locally.
I'm in that position now. The last chair I had was 10yrs ago. Can't afford a custom one.
Great video
I have a Quickie Neon that I cannot use anymore because it was badly measured. It is too narrow, causing crushing in my "gentleman's area". I've had to revert to a heavy NHS crate. Any tips on selling an old chair?
try ebay, I know a lot of people who have bought from there and a lot are prepared to travel to collect.
i was just wondering where you got your wheelchair from?
Dear Gem do you have any input on titanium vs carbon chairs? I've just broken my aluminum chair, bent chasis, long story, got any thoughts?
Well my old chair was titanium. and my new one is carbon. I wanted carbon as I wanted it to be as light as possible. Im loving my carbon char. Ive had it for about 18 months. I hope this helps? If you would like I can put the question to the community and you can see what others have to say? Just le me know. x
@@Wheelsnoheels Yes please :) could I email you?
@@Wheelsnoheels how does the titanium chair hold up vs cf with the normal daily bumps? Also can you recall the name, I'm guessing it's not the davinci...
Thanks for your thoughts :D
Love your channel :) I’ve just taken delivery of a new chair and SmartDrive MX2+ that’s the cure to your handle woes hon, it’s fantastic!
ahhh thank you so much. do let me know if you have another video ideas. Also feel free to come and join me on instagram. Oh id love a smart drive but i have just spent thousands on a new chair. Ill have to get saving. :)
Wheelsnoheels
Oh man you’re right, it’s expensive but it’s definitely the best disability tool I’ve ever acquired.
Can you apply for some help with the funding via Access To Work or Aspire or somewhere like that?
OOooo thats a good idea. I once got a very small grant from access to work, but i work from home now. So not sure I would get it? whats Aspire? Ill have to check that out. Ill look into it, thats a good idea, I have thought about just giving or crowed funding, but I'm not sure if it sits right with me!!! don't know... might give it ago, you can only ask hey!! thanks hun. x
Wheelsnoheels
Oh I know what you mean, I felt exactly the same re crowdfunding (tho you have a fab channel and I’m sure in return for your hair tips and tricks people would be willing to donate a few pennies?)
Access to Work should still be able to help if you’re self employed; I guess the issue is it would be a bit harder to justify the costs of a tool that propels you if you don’t have to leave your house to *get* to work, but y’know, worth asking!
Aspire is an SCI Charity
www.aspire.org.uk/i-have-an-sci
There is a waiting list for their grants but you can but ask! Are there any other charities/trust funds in your area you could apply to for help with the cost?
Turn2Us is a great tool for grant finding;
grants-search.turn2us.org.uk/
Hope you find some pennies to put towards it because it’s been a life changer for me, and I’ve only had it two weeks 🙈 (The Hospital is work in is huuuuuuuge so already I’m whizzing between clinics and wards much easier than before!)
@@LizzyFerretOfficial But you do work out of home Gem! Every time you film at a supermarket/beach boardwalk./Disney or crappy tilted wobbly street that is working away from home so maybe plug that with Access to Work????
i can't walk properly like i can walk but i tend to fall and my parents don't want me to go to the hospital
I have a chronic illness, EDS, that, along with few other comorbidities, has caused me to need a wheelchair part-time. I need an ultra-light weight one because my shoulders and wrists dislocate easily, but we're on a very tight budget. My insurance won't cover the costs due to it only being needed part-time, so we're kinda stuck. If anyone has any advice, it would be super appreciated, as this has been nearly a year long struggle now
Gem, did you manage to get any help with the cost of your chair? I have recently been reassessed for an NHS one and I foolishly thought that they would be able to supply one with at least some useful functions but alas not, the only thin it had going for it was 4 wheels and 2 of those were too big (massive castors). If I decide not to go with their chair they will be able to give me a voucher of around £200 towards one.
Also do you have a back tilt angle on the actual seat part of the chair? I couldn’t tell from the way your chairs were positioned.
By the way I love your videos.
hey lovely. email me wheelsnoheels@yahoo.com
I have a different chair to Gem and viewed a few other different brands, recline was something I was looking for as I was worried about the tight angle of the hip, but it seems that it's not really something that exists in active user chairs, which seems a bit odd to me as when I look closely at the way the back is joined to the seat it has a release mechanism to fold it down, but it doesn't seem as it it would add much weight to change that to a mechanism that would go both ways and then lock where you wanted it.
thanks
Pleas do a new wheelchair review of 2024 wheelchairs
Hi there, I have a whole playlist with my recent wheelchair videos. This is my current chair…th-cam.com/video/xV1z6PX3X-4/w-d-xo.htmlsi=sPPeDX4seiVdrzZ8
th-cam.com/video/Cs7VrSZq1yo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=OQxjyq0zrVaTNs7o
Not me replaying this cuz my concentration had lost you but then only realising after the 5th time of replaying oh I haven't got my subtitles on that might help! If you can relate comment below! 😂😂😂
You were misinformed about the carbon wheels. Carbon can be repaired very effectively. There's several carbon repair companies in the UK, for example www.carboncyclerepairs.co.uk/index.html
ahhhh ok thank you. :)
The funny one is when they decide to make it bigger assuming you will gain more weight. Not funny haha, funny odd. And then there is the idea you will be wearing a big jacket. Eh those light up caster wheels I have seen them before, probably not the same brand, and they were not scooter wheels they were made for the wheelchairs, but hey so long as they work.
❤
I have EDS and I need a wheelchair. They want to put me in a regular standard or transport chair like I have now from a local shop. So not much better but added cushion. They want to do this because I’m fat 😕😔😢. I’ve had an eating disorder so hearing that my weight is an issue in me getting a chair is hard. They didn’t call me fat but they mentioned my weight through the whole talk which pointed towards that assumption. They aren’t looking into a manual/light/less bulky wheelchair for me at all. I also don’t get to choose what it looks like if I wanted color idk.. or smart drive because my shoulders get sore fast and dislocate. The won’t even allow electric. One of my doctors even said I didn’t need a wheelchair when I clearly can’t stand for even 3 seconds with out pain and subluxations in my knees,hips and ankles mostly knees. Even my PT says I need one. Btw the talk was with the pt and wheelchair person at my doctors. The wheelchair person kept talking about my weight and not being very understanding about my situation. On top of that the wheel chair I have now is heavy and bulky especially for my grandmother who is almost 70 to pick up and put in the car so I’m also hoping for a lighter one for her sake and for my sake in the future if I have to pick it up myself. There is so way I could pick up the wheelchair I have right now with out dislocating. Help? What should I say or do? I don’t want to be needy or seem judgmental for questioning them on why I can’t get a manual
Hey I have eds to I gave up on the nhs and had to just pay myself it's so frustrating. May I ask which country you live in?
What about all you other wheelchairs? You never show us.. 🤔
The things that stop you are brakes not breaks.
GREATEST THING SINCE SLICED BREAD..AAAA+
Wrt the footplate, while you’re right about the circulation, but I’d advise anyone with a connective tissue disorder or any sort of dislocations in their hips or knees to avoid that!
Cat Maxil Edwards thank you! I am about to get my first chair due to eds and an undiagnosed neurological condition, I would have bought one much more expensive if I hadn't seen this comment, I've managed to get a second hand (only used a handful of times) one for £150 rather than buying new (the same chair but with different footplate and armrests) for £650. I thought I'd come back to this video and thank you for helping me
Rachel Lazenby congrats on the chair! I just got a manual myself as a compliment to my power chair. Honestly w eds (which is what I have too so same hat! I have clEDS w vascular cross) it’s a good idea to have a power one handy. With my power one I ditched the footplate entirely and I use cheap pantyhose instead, wrapped around both columns. Works really well for keeping my legs in (ankles behind knees and knees above hips is my motto).
I have a scooter but it's cumbersome and I can't take it on the train into town which is where the chair comes in, when it arrives I'll be sure to do all of the adjustments once it arrives! I'm hEDS with classical and vascular crossovers so similar position, thank you so much for your advice
oh and don't be put off if you get it and everything is awkward and uncomfortable for a bit because theres a learning curve with figuring out exactly how you like it. if you ever get frustrated or feel discouraged while getting used to it, just know that ive had my chair since 2014 and i only worked out last week that i can raise both the arm rests and sit cross legged on the train
Commander Maxil, I don't understand your reasoning behind this, why is sticking out more likely to cause dislocations? I really try to get my knees below my hips because although I have EDS, it's not the primary reason I use a wheelchair, I have hip abnormalities that means keeping a tight hip angle can be very painful (though as my muscles are weakening and I'm not stressing it at that angle it's actually a lot better than it has been in the past). My arms are actually a lot more unstable than my legs (though my legs still score their points on the beighton score).
Whats wrong with women in wheelchaires wearing heeld
Agreed .. I used to wear heels 5 days a week, but haven't been able to in the last few years. I am ready to admit that I need a wheelchair, and my first thought was, " I can wear heels again!"
Dear friend, if you want, we can get married. I don't have any physical disability. God has kept me healthy.
👌👌🙏🙏🙏🙏
Or you can take the cheap chair that weighs like brick and live with it because no one sees any need for you to have a decent one. :(
You're beautiful
Don't buy a chair without Anti tip wheels and handles....
I Did and I have Zero protection for the back of my head...
If I over cook it.
That said I'm not a fan of fixed Anti tip wheels..
Why is your channel called wheelsnoheels and not 'notheels'? Sorry this really bugs me grammatically so would be interesting to hear how you chose that name
If I remember one of her videos correctly, she can't wear heels because of the way her feet lay, that's why she chose that name