iLevel® technology helps me in so many ways around my community. Generally, having a power wheelchair with iLevel gives me the mobility I need, allowing me to get to where I need to go. Even better, iLevel power adjustable seat elevation raises my seat up to 12 inches ensuring that I am visible to pedestrians, cars and cyclists.
When it starts to get warmer outside, I spend a lot of time at a park that is close to where I live. I can take my chair on the trail in the park, driving while elevated so people on the trail can see me coming. With the SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension) on my electric wheelchair, the ride on the trail is always smooth and comfortable. When I need to rest for a while, I can raise or lower the elevation as needed to get the maximum amount of sunlight. It’s great for getting my tan on, but most importantly, the exposure to the sunlight helps keep me warm, as I am always cold due to my condition.
If I am going out to have dinner or drinks with my friends or family, being at iLevel is a great advantage. I can I drive my wheelchair right up to the bar and order a drink. If I am having a conversation with someone, I can be eye to eye with him or her. No one will be looking down at me. When I’ve had enough of being at the bar, I can move my chair and sit outside on the patio. I can lower my chair easily and be at the same level as everyone else sitting at the patio table.
I love to use iLevel on my electric wheelchair when I go to museums or the zoo. Sometimes, museums place exhibits on higher shelves, so it’s easy for me to elevate so I can get a closer look. At the zoo, there may be a fence or bars in the way of seeing the animals, but iLevel lets me elevate 12 inches so I can see over both of those things.
Overall, having iLevel makes it easier for me to engage with the world around me, whether it’s interacting with people in my community at different events, or hanging out with friends and family members. There is nothing better than having a conversation at eye level with someone while you’re walking through the park. There’s no greater accomplishment than being able to reach something on a high shelf; this is something that would never be possible while seated in a standard height wheelchair. There is nothing more exciting than being able to elevate to look at someone’s piece more closely when you’re at a local art show. No matter who you are, no matter what your situation, iLevel can have a tremendous impact on your life.
About Jesse Cuellar: Jesse is an artist and a brand ambassador for Quantum Rehab®. An accident left him paralyzed from the neck down, so he uses his mouth to paint and expresses himself through his art. Jesse lives in St. Louis, Missouri, and enjoys painting and hanging out with his friends. Click here to learn more about Jesse.