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SHAREJULY 2021Accessible RV Life on the RoadTell Us What You Love: I love this!We just took our travel trailer fromGeorgia to Utah. We camped at or visited 10 national parks.@jamiegoodwinInstagramMore Class Bs, Please: I hopeNewmar, Winnebago and all other RVmanufacturers consider a smaller accessible RV, like a Class B, for a variety ofreasons: Class A is too big for only twopeople. Also, it’s too expensive for mostdisabled people, who already have veryhigh expenses. And once a large Class Ais parked in an RV park, we would needto purchase an accessible van to tow toride around locally.My fiancé and I searched for an accessible Class B for two years with absolutely no luck. We, too, visited CampingWorld, but they couldn’t provide anyassistance.“I love this! We justtook our travel trailerto 10 national parks.”to work together but simply don’t. Theylove to blame other manufacturers forproblems, and problem-solving is verydifficult. Nobody talks about the constant problems and service issues.Marty CoopmanFacebookDaily Dilemmas: The ImposterCanine CompanionJane Could Go to Jail: You shouldtell your friend ‘Jane’ that what sheis doing, slapping a vest on a pet dogto have it impersonate a service dog,hurts everybody who has put in thetime or money to acquire or traina real service dog. And doing so —faking a service dog — is a crime in23 states with penalties as stiff as amisdemeanor along with fines up to 1,000 and up to six months in jail.Furthermore, the Canine Companionsfor Independence organization nameis copyrighted. They will likely take aserious (and probably not pleasant) interest in a person who puts a bootlegCCI vest on a pet dog.Bob VogelNewmobility.comNM Live with Andraéa LaVantBelieve it: First-ever ramp [to theAcademy Awards stage]?!? Hard tobelieve, but it’s about time! Congrats onCrip Camp, a fantastic film.Heavenly ramGood Luck Getting it Repaired:What people don’t account for is theconstant, expensive repairs. There arefew repair centers nationwide and veryfew trained technicians. The technology in one of these coaches requiresexpertly trained service technicians.Often, qualified technicians or repairsare miles, or even several states, away.Getting parts for some repairs can takeweeks or longer. The biggest problem isthat the various systems are built by different suppliers, and they are supposed6NEW MOBILITYWe can’t promise you’ll win a photo contest like Brianna Heim did, but if you’d like to see yourimage in New Mobility, please send it to executive editor Josie Byzek at jbyzek@unitedspinal.org.Who knows — we may just publish it.

Start RightHere.VaPro Plus Pocket catheters offer thefeatures male catheter users want.1Protection. Ease of Use. Discretion.VaPro Plus Pocket catheters provide 100% No Touch Protection with aprotective tip and sleeve, and they are easy to use, with an improved protectivetip that offers a more comfortable insertion. The pocket-size package design ismore discreet—a quality users prefer.Consider VaPro Plus Pocket catheters right from the start.Request a sample by going to link.hollister.com/tryvapro,scanning the QR code, or calling 1.888.808.7456Reference: 1. Hollister data on file.Prior to use, be sure to read the Instructions for Use for information regarding Intended Use, Contraindications, Warnings, Precautions, and Instructions.Rx Only.The Hollister logo and VaPro Plus Pocket are trademarks of Hollister Incorporated. 2020 Hollister Incorporated. US-01348Improved catheter.Discreet packaging.

POSTSMore Manual ChoicesQuickie expanded the configuration options onits lightest manual wheelchair, theNitrum, adding a new Hybrid modeland an Active Rigid option togive users more control overhow they ride.The new Nitrum Hybridoffers a dual-tube optionfor users who prefer thisbox-style aluminum frame’srigidity and increasedweight capacity. Like theoriginal, open-frame Nitrum,The Nitrum Active Rigidthe Hybrid provides fulladjust-ability. A unique caster system lets you adjustwidth and angle to finetune your setup formaneuverability and desired rear seat height.Quickie says that “during development ofthe Nitrum series, we made it our goal to optimize weight savings of each component andto achieve maximum rigidity.” The companyoffers an Active Rigid option that includesfixed backrest and axle stems on both theNitrum and Nitrum Hybrid to decrease weightSwinging SuccessFor everyone tired of not having accessibleoptions at their local playgrounds, LandscapeStructures’ newADA-complaintWe-Go-Swingoffers somemuch-neededinnovation and awhole lot of fun.Built with busyplayground spaces in mind, theWe-Go-Swingcomes with afurther, reduce moving parts and increaseframe stiffness.“With the release of this newest edition of the Quickie Nitrum,we are proving our commitment to listening to our end-users andcontinuously innovating in the segment of ultra-lightweight manualwheelchairs,” says Larry Jackson, president of Sunrise Medical NorthAmerica.The Nitrum checks in with a 10.8 pounds transport weight, whilethe Nitrum Hybrid clocks 12.8 pounds. The starting retail price is 2,695, and Medicare and most private insurances cover both chairs.For more information, visit: d-wheelchairs/nitrum8NEW MOBILITYPush All the ButtonsIt’s easier than ever to control all thesmart devices around us by voiceor app, but what do we do whenconfronted with a “dumb”power button or switch? Thedesigners of the Fingerbotplus offer a solution. Thisdeceptively simple-lookingtool helps you turn any techinto smart tech by allowingyou to voice-control most but-

S U M M E R FA L L R E A D I N G L I S TDEMYSTIFYING DISABILITY BY EMILY LADAUWritten to help make the disability experience more accessible, DemystifyingDisability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to be an Ally is an enjoyable, easy-toread guide to being a thoughtful, informed ally to disabled people. Ladau, who hasbeen disabled since birth, explores topics like disability etiquette, history, culture,ableism, and media representation while weaving in stories from her own life. Thebook is available on amazon.com and other retailers. Be sure to catch Ladau on thismonth’s episode of NM Live, and See more about that on our back page.THE FABULOUS T-BABES BY MIKE ERVIN AND STEPHANIE LUPULongtime New Mobility columnist Mike Ervin, the one and only Smart AssCripple himself, lends his trademark wit to a graphic novel. Illustrated byLupu, The Fabulous T-Babes follows the adventures of three “thalidomidebabies” who must use their superpowers to escape danger. The first edition isout now. For purchasing info, email fabtbabes@gmail.com.CONFINED TO ALIGN BY ASHLEY LYN OLSONAfter years of writing about accessible travel for New Mobility and various otherPhotos courtesy of playlsi.comwebsites, including her own wheelchairtraveling.com, Olson shifts her focus to aless enjoyable but perhaps more critical topic: dealing with an unexpected medi-ramp that provides easy access to one accessible bay and one bench seat or two accessiblebays. “They don’t look like they are designedfor disability — they’re just really cool designs,”says Jill Moore, a Paralympian now working asan inclusive play specialist.The We-Go-Swing is the latest addition toLandscape Structures’ accessible playgroundcatalog, including the We-Go-Round merrygo-round (above) and many other inclusiveoptions. If you’re interested in getting itsequipment for your local playground, visitplaylsi.com.cal catastrophe. In sharing her experience recovering from a devastating pressure sore, Olson provides a helpful template for others coping with hard times.Available soon on Amazon.LIVE THE IMPOSSIBLE: HOW A WHEELCHAIR HAS TAKEN ME PLACES I NEVERDARED TO IMAGINE BY JENNY SMITHFresh off her July NM article on planning yourdream trip, Smith (left) fulfilled one of herdreams with the release of her memoir. In Livethe Impossible, she writes candidly about theups and downs of 32 years of living as a C6-7quadriplegic. Between her international travels,speaking career, blogging and YouTube videos,Smith has plenty of tales to tell and even morelived-experience to share. Available on Amazon.tons and switches from anywhere usinga simple app. Over 2,600 peoplebacked the Fingerbot-plusKickstarter campaign, blowing past the 20,000 goaland raising more than 250,000. The campaign isover, but you can still preorder the Fingerbot-plusat home-automator#/GETTING YOUR BRAIN AND BODY BACK: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TOKNOW AFTER SPINAL CORD INJURY, STROKE, OR TRAUMATIC BRAININJURY BY BRADFORD BERKBerk is the only one of these five authors who hasn’t written for NM (yet). Thehighly-regarded medical researcher who sustained a high-level SCI at the peak ofhis career is also the only one who founded a neurorestoration institute. He bringshis unique blend of personal and professional experience to this all-encompassingneurological recovery guide. Available on Amazon.SEPTEMBER 20219

MEMBER BENEFITSunitedspinal.orgNEWS FROM UNITED SPINALUnited Spinal Association is dedicated to enhancing the quality oflife of all people living with spinalcord injuries and disorders (SCI/D)by providing programs and servicesthat maximize independence andenable people to be active in theircommunities.BENEFITS INCLUDE:Personalized Advice and GuidancePeer SupportAdvocacy and Public PolicyVeterans Benefits CounselingAccessibility AdvocacyLocal ChaptersCarina Ho, musician and songwriterAli Stroker, Tony Award winnerNew Mobility magazineInformative and EducationalPublicationsOngoing Educational WebinarsSpecial offers and discounts frompartnering organizationsMembership in United SpinalAssociation is free and open toall individuals who are living withSCI/D, their family members,friends, and healthcare providers. Visit unitedspinal.org or call800/962-9629.United Spinal has 75 years ofexperience educating and empowering individuals with SCI/D toachieve and maintain the highestlevels of independence, health andpersonal fulfillment. We have 50 local chapters and 190 supportgroups nationwide, connectingour members to their peers andfostering an expansive grassrootsnetwork that enriches lives.UNITED SPINAL 75TH ANNIVERSARY GALAHow do you celebrate United Spinal Association’s 75-year legacy of advocacy andempowerment, fundraise for current operations and generate enthusiasm for the future,all in one virtual event?That was one of the many tasks facing United Spinal’s new President and CEOVincenzo Piscopo, when he joined the organization last November. The solution will beunveiled on Nov. 10, at United Spinal’s star-studded virtual gala and community event,“Building an Inclusive World.”PBS NewsHour’s Amna Nawaz will serve as emcee and introduce guests that includeLin-Manuel Miranda, who created and starred in the multiple-award-winning Broadwayshow, “Hamilton,” Ali Stroker, who is the first wheelchair user to win a Tony, formerU.S. Representative Steve Bartlett, and U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth and RaphaelWarnock. The evening will also feature a performance by Carina Ho.“This is a great opportunity to let everyone know the impact that we’re making. Also,it will let people with spinal cord injuries and disorders know that we are here for themand are committed to a brighter future,” says Piscopo. “When we look back at what wehave accomplished in the last 75 years, there is a lot to be proud about, and this is agood time to pause and celebrate the advancements. However, we cannot lose track ofthe fact that there is still a lot to do. I want to use this celebration as an opportunity toenergize our community for the next 75 years because, from a perspective of inclusion,there is still more progress to be made.”The virtual gala is on Nov. 10 at 6 p.m. EST.Registration is free atunitedspinal.org/75th-anniversary10NEW MOBILITY

Save todayfor a better tomorrowtootoTax-advantaged savings accountsthat won’t impact certain disability ndandinninmmmdeededdable-now.comCall 1-844-NOW-ABLE or visit able-now.com to obtain information on the program. Seek the advice of aprofessional concerning any financial, tax, legal or federal or state benefit implications related to openingand maintaining an ABLEnow account. Participating in ABLEnow involves investment risk including the possibleloss of principal. For non-Virginia residents: other states may sponsor an ABLE plan that offers state tax orother benefits not available through ABLEnow. 2021 Virginia College Savings Plan. All Rights RE”“GO-ANYWHERE” ChairsT h eT hSea fSea, fPer, aPcrtai ccat il c a la n da nCdo nCvoennvi e n itewn ta yw at oy t oThe Safe,travt rPracticaleal vwe lh ewrheevandreervaeConvenientnr da n dhewnheevnwherevereervyeor uy owuaandnwta. n t .way towtravelwheneveryou want.No Nmoo rmeowr eo rwr ioer sr i easb oaubto u tJustIh a vworrieshi anvgi nagc caboutaecscsei bshavingsl ei b l eNo moref a cfi al ict i leist i. e s .accessible irsChairsAw tractV797D DifferentDifferentmodelsmodelsto meetto meet Different models to meet specificspecificspecificneeds!needs!needs! SimpleSimpleto assemble;to assemble;no notoolsrequired.required. Simple to toolsassemble;no tools SafeSafeand andeasyeasyto use.to use.required. SeatSeatand andfootrestfootrestheightsheights Safe and easytoadjustable.use.are adjustable.are otal-lock” Seat andheightsarebrakes.brakes.adjustable. LightweightLightweightand t-gradeaircraft-grade Casters have“total-lock”brakes.aluminum.aluminum. Lightweightanddurable,high-quality Compact,Compact,convenient,convenient,and andaircraft-gradealuminum.PORTABLE!PORTABLE! Won’tWon’tRustRustor corrode;or corrode; Compact,convenient,andeasyeasyto clean.to clean.PORTABLE! VirtuallyVirtuallymaintenancemaintenance Won’t Rustorfree.corrode; easy to clean.free. CushionsCushionsare availableare availablein in Virtually maintenance-free.(3) colors(3) colorsand andremoveremovefor cleaning.for cleaning. Cushionseasilyareeasilyavailablein (3) colors OptionalOptionalaccessoriesand :wheeledwheeledcustomcustom Optional positioningwheeled ,and andupgradedupgradedtray, ns!cushions!30-DayRisk-FreeTrial-30180For Home AND On-The-Road;WhenGottaGo,Go,WeWe GoGo WithWhen e-road;on-the-road;WhenWhenya Gottaya GottaGo,Go,WeWeGo GoWithWithYa!”Ya!”For home AND on-the-road;For home AND on-the-road;When ya GottaGo, We Go re.com800-359-4021For .GoesAnywhere.com Sales@GoesAnywhere.com 800-359-4021w.goesanywhere.com Sales@goesanywhere.comSales@goesanywhere.com ywhere.com Sales@goesanywhere.com 800-359-4021S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2111

GEAR HACKSBy Seth McBrideACCESSIBLE FAMILY CAMPING HACKSBack when my son, Ewan, was still flopping around in diapers, I remember aquad-dad friend of mine who likenedparenting to playing a video game.“Just when you start to get better at it,the difficulty level keeps going up,” hejoked, and he was right. Compared tothe intricacies of managing an adamantlyindependent 4-year-old who’s suddenlyturned functional enough to be dangerous, newborns are pretty simple.Something my friend wouldn’t haveknown because he and his wife had twinsand never delved into baby round two isthat the second time you have a kid, it’slike going back to level one on that videogame you already learned how to crush —everything’s just easier.Enter Lou, our beautiful girl/bundleof gas, who is objectively a more difficult newborn than Ewan was whilesimultaneously being easier for Kelly andme to manage. Which is how, when Louwas 3 weeks old, we found ourselvesstraddling the line between ambitionand stupidity and loading up the pickuptruck for our first family-of-four campingexpedition.Seth and Ewan sleptgreat in the back ofthe truck.The realities of taking a newborn anda preschooler out into the woods madeus rethink how we typically do thingsand helped us realize that simplifying thewhole process can make camping a littleeasier for everybody.The One Night ExpeditionOne thing we learned with Ewan was,don’t push it. Sure, spending a few nightsout in the middle of nowhere is great,but know what’s even better? Making ithome before everybody starts to hateeach other. And from a disability perspective, one-night camping has its benefits.For starters, it simplifies bowel routines,which for a lot of wheelchair users, canbe one of the biggest deterrents to camping. Simply poop before you go, takesome Imodium if you’re really worriedabout it, and most likely, you won’t haveto think about getting back on the potuntil you get home.If you pack up as much as possible thenight before you leave and pick a camping spot close to home, you can get twodays of camping in, with only one nightof sleeping hassle. That’s just enough tomake the packing effort worthit. Plus, if you go for a singlenight, you don’t really need todo any dishes, which is alwaysannoying when you’re out inthe middle of nowhere. Justdirty what you need to dirtyand save the clean-up forwhen you get home. If you’recamping somewhere withcritter worries, pack the dirtydishes in a sealable tubSleeping MattersWe have a tent, a big one.But somehow, with twoadults, two kids, a wheelchairand a dog, that tent is no12NEW MOBILITYRelax, Baby Lou.longer big enough for our whole family. Since setting up a tent is generally ahassle if you use a wheelchair, and Kellycertainly didn’t need one more thing todo, we simply decided to go without asecond one. Kelly and Lou, and Lou’schanging station, filled up the tent whileEwan, Kenai the dog and I took the truckbed. We blew up a generic queen-sizedair mattress that fit perfectly with theback gate of the truck lowered. I hadto transfer up from my wheelchair, butthat was easier than transferring backup from a tent floor. If you don’t have atruck, the back of a station wagon hasserved me well in the past and generallymakes for an easier transfer.Similarly, a camping cot, availablefor around 100 from various retailers,makes for a good sleeping surface up offthe dirt. Often between 17-20 incheshigh, they allow a near-level transfer formany manual wheelchair users. Sincemany cots are only 36 inches wide,though, you’re probably better off cuttingup a memory foam mattress cover to useas a sleeping pad than buying a fancy,ultralight blow-up sleeping pad, which

also tends to be ultra-slippery. Many companies sell wider versions if you need one.Coleman offers a camping cot that comescomplete with a queen-sized air mattressand integrated battery-operated pump forabout 160.If you are camping in the summer, whenmost people go anyway, you won’t have toworry about getting too cold sleeping outin the open. Pack a warm sleeping bag, or ifyou don’t have one, there’s nothing wrongwith sleeping in multiple layers, your jacketand an old blanket you don’t mind gettingdirty. Bugs can be a nuisance, dependingon where you’re camping, but whiskeyhelps, as does staying around the campfiresmoke until a few hours after sunset whenprime bug activity typically dies down. Ifyou live in a region where Lyme disease orthe West Nile virus is a concern, be sure topack bug spray. You can get a cheap, stringup mosquito net, but you’ll likely need anondisabled helper to make any use of it.Rain? Pick a clear night and risk it. Worstcase scenario is you’ll

life beyond wheels. UNITED SPINAL ASSOCIATION’S . Parking Protectors Cosmetics Late to the Club. Inside a . College . Crisis. For more information on how you can support United Spinal and become a corporate member, please contact Megan