Brian

In many places in my town one side of the road has curbs - most with no curb cutouts - and then the other side is only dirt and sage brush. People who do not have a disability think that one or two stairs into a place is handicap accessible. Well, as anyone in a manual or power wheelchair could tell you, one or two stairs might as well be a 10 feet high wall.

Since I received my iBOT® 4000 Mobility System in July 2006 from the Office of Workers Compensation Program in the U.S. Department of Labor, my perspective on life has literally changed forever. With the iBOT®, I've been able to visit places and do things I haven't done in nearly 13 years. And my use of this wonderful Mobility System has really opened my eyes to just how poor handicap accessibility is in my state.

Recently, in my position as the board member for district 4, of the State Independent Living Council, I spoke at length with many other board members on how the iBOT® has improved my life. When I showed them the iBOT®, they were amazed at the kinds of things that it can do compared to other wheelchairs. After they saw me in my iBOT®, some businesses in my state have become compliant with accessibility laws. While some still haven't, hopefully my showcasing of the iBOT® will show others the importance of accessibility for all people with disabilities in my region, and beyond.

If I haven't changed the minds of local people including my congressmen, I've decided that I am going to run for public office. I think it's my duty to spread the word about this great device and also to ensure that the disability community has a chance to see the difference that the iBOT® can make in their lives. I truly believe that every person who is appropriate for the iBOT® Mobility System should have the opportunity to own one. I know it has made a difference in my life.