Life at iLevel Canada
Jared Wayland Bio
I was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy III (SMA Type 3) at age 13. SMA is a type of Muscular Dystrophy. Was a very active kid growing up – played lots of hockey, soccer and golf. As the disease progressed, it became harder and harder to do these things until around age 17/18 when it became impossible. For perspective, I cannot climb stairs, walk independently or get up from a seated position… I also cannot lift anything over about 3 pounds.
Suffice it to say, the Edge 3 Stretto has made a WORLD of a difference in my daily life and independence since I’ve had it. I can effortlessly navigate tight spaces or corners in his home. With iLevel® technology, I can drive 7km/h fully elevated for enhanced social interaction. Independent SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension) on the Stretto handles uneven terrain. I also enjoy the standard features on the Stretto, such as the USB charger and front and rear LED fender lights.
I am a Graphic Designer by trade, and have been doing graphic design since I was about 14 (self taught). I live in St. Catharines with my amazing fiancée, with whom I recently purchased a home. I love to travel, watch sports (especially golf, soccer and hockey), have a passion for graphic design, and am a major music nerd (Massive Springsteen fan) and love going to concerts!
Marie Pontini Bio
Hi! My name is Marie pontini, I’m 41 years old from Montreal, QC and I have multiple sclerosis and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
For me, to have a mobility aid means freedom! I realized early on that, in the process to accept my diagnosis, it was very important that I learn to appreciate my mobility aids. I use a power wheelchair since October 2017.
I have extreme levels of neuropathic pain for which doctors don't have anything to offer me anymore. In 2018, being overwhelmed by the pain and as a way to express my frustrations, I started bodybuilding very intensively for competitions. I did my first competition in November 2019.
Through bodybuilding, I found a way to empower myself over the situation. I like to say that "I choose the pain of the gym to fight the pain of my body". Not because it lowers my pain levels, quite often the opposite, but because of that pain, I CHOSE it. Bodybuilding also gives me a feeling of fulfillment, personal achievement, and harmony with my body.
The reason I’m extremely proud to be a Canada Quantum Rehab ambassador is because my power wheelchair gives me the possibility to express myself and show who I am. I feel I can represent myself to the world, and not be just another disabled person. Their products are completely customizable to the user and their looks too!
I’m very happy that with this wheelchair, it makes me proud to have a mobility aid and be who I am, no matter my condition. I also know that my wheelchair can evolve as my needs will change and that's really reassuring for me. I appreciate the advanced options that are available with this wheelchair and how it makes my daily life much easier!
