Letters: January 2015


Misleading Title?

While I always enjoy reading up on the new adaptive tech innovations that come out every year, my concern is that calling this issue a “Consumer Guide” may be misleading

[November 2014]. When I think of a consumer guide, I expect actual product reviews — both positive and critical — regarding quality, reliability, ease of use, etc., of the products described. Unless the New Mobility staff have tested and can personally vouch for everything they feature, I would suggest changing the title of the issue to something more appropriate, like “free promotion for your advertisers.”
Karen Hwang
Walnut Creek, California

Free Exercise Program
I work for the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability, and I just read your article, “Exercises for Quads” [October 2014]. We have a program I think your readers might be interested in, a free online high intensity workout program designed for individuals of all ability levels. Every day a new workout is posted and visitors can self-select what ability level they choose to do. There is nothing in it (monetarily) for us. My husband has paraplegia, and I designed the program for him. I know that there are probably others out there who could benefit from it as well. You can check it out at www.nchpad.org/CRx.
Kelly Bonner
Birmingham, Alabama

All Terrain Vehicles
Really enjoyed reading your Bully Pulpit in New Mobility this morning [“My Top Four Products,” November 2014]. My injury level is T12 and I’ve been walking with braces and a cane for the past 25 years. I am in one of my re-invention periods because walking distances is no longer possible. I have literally worn out a new scooter in three months. I am on my second one. I love the outdoors and camping, too. I am thinking of a four-wheeler to be able to still enjoy it all. I usually stay at the camper and read. But since my daughter says I must be going through a second childhood or midlife crisis, I am trying to figure out a way I can still get on the trails here in Colorado. And I do remember those three-wheeler cycles [mentioned in the column], which are now illegal in most states. Just wanted to say thanks for helping me along today.
Tonja Clark
Montrose, Colorado

Cover the Candidates
Over the next two years, the United States will be undergoing the arduous process of selecting our next president. Given that people with disabilities have a great degree of interaction and involvement with many different layers of government, picking the next president is of great importance to our community. New Mobility should cover this important decision-making process — more than simply one article before the election. On an ongoing basis, NM could be speaking to the candidates, outlining proposals and exploring the views of the disabled community.??
T.K. Small
New York, New York

Good Deals Out There
Good article! [“Affordable Vans and Cars,” November 2014]. I would personally do a reliability check when buying older vehicles, using either Edmunds.com or Consumer Reports reviews of classic/older models. The problem with some older cars (i.e., most German or Swedish cars) is the price for parts on repairs. Some older American classics are worth looking at due to the larger coupe doors. They offer great access to the rear seats, parts are cheap and they usually qualify for “classic” car insurance. I pay about $90 a year for my 1970 Torino’s coverage. I also love the Honda Element. I have a 2006 and had it lowered 3 inches to make it easier for my entry and exit transfers. The interior is so large once the rear seats are out that I don’t even have to take the rear wheels off my chair! Do your homework on buying used — there are great deals to be found.
Bobby Ferrusi
via newmobility.com

Out-of-Pocket Option
I did not realize you could pay out-of-pocket and possibly get the right documentation to get faster motors at the time of purchase [“Your Second Power Chair,” November 2014]. I will be looking into this on my next chair.
Rick Davidson
via newmobility.com

Correction
In our December issue [“The Big Idea: Does Recovery Trump Cure?”]Sam Maddox was mistakenly quoted as saying that locomotor training would be used along with an epidural stimulator as part of the Reeve Foundation’s upcoming clinical trial. According to Susan Howley, the nonprofit’s research director, locomotor training will not be a part of the next research phase, which will test the effectiveness of epidural stimulator by itself.


Support New Mobility

Wait! Before you wander off to other parts of the internet, please consider supporting New Mobility. For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. But none of this is cheap, easy or profitable. Your support helps us give wheelchair users the resources to build a fulfilling life.

donate today

Comments are closed.