Posting on behalf of the author

When I was first diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy, I was told I would probably only live until my twenties. Later, I was re-diagnosed with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy which is not as life threatening as some types.

My name is Emma Gray and I am Director and co-owner of E-R Mobility Solutions Ltd with my husband Robert who is the service engineer. Our product is PARAVAN Wheelchairs which we provide to UK and Ireland customers. The wheelchairs are custom built to each individual’s needs, right down to the colour of the stitching on the seat.

I have two children, Lewis 15 and Jamie 8 who keep me going along with my husband. I am a user of the product and have been for the last three years and feel I can describe the product better than any abled bodied person, what with being in the chair most of the day every day.

The wheelchair I use is the PR 50 Evolution PARAVAN wheelchair and there are five other different models which we cover. I was the first UK customer to own a PARAVAN Wheelchair, and having the right equipment means I am able to be as independent as possible, whether it’s for…

Driving

I have been driving for nine years and use PARAVAN hand controls in my vehicle. My wheelchair locks into place in the driver’s seat and even charges the wheelchair as I drive. Being able to get out and about is very important to me, and the chair opens up the roads for me.

Self-transfers

The height of the chair can be altered to the extent that I don’t need any assistance with transfers either into another seat or in and out of bed. This gives me a vital extra bit of independence that I greatly value.

Reaching new heights

The extent of the height adjustment meant I haven’t had to have major adjustments or adaptations made to my kitchen. At the push of a button I can reach cupboards that are high up or low down. I can cook at home without any difficulty.

Other advantages

One of the symptoms of Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy is a severe weakening of muscles in the shoulders. As a result my shoulders are dangerously prone to dislocating. The PR 50 Evolution PARAVAN wheelchair has armrests that are fully adjustable. I can change the height and angle so my arms are always receiving suitable support.

The seat of my wheelchair slides forward and back so I can get closer to tables, desks, etc. which is very useful.

My relationship with PARAVAN started when I needed to renew my previous chair. After many issues and difficulties, I ended up looking at PARAVAN as an option.  I had been using PARAVAN hand controls for driving through Motability and ended up travelling to Germany to get fitted with a chair. I was delighted with my new chair and ended up approaching PARAVAN to sell the chairs in the UK and Ireland.

They provided loads of training to us and have been a very supporting company. If anyone is interested and wants to find out more you can look at the PARAVAN website or, pending the launch of our own website, you can visit our Facebook page.

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