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Quantum Rehab

Lunch With My Stretto

by Jared Wayland

As the sun hits its midday peak and the aroma of delicious food beckons, the thought of going out for lunch fills many with excitement. For some, however, this seemingly simple task can present challenges. But for me, a power chair user, going out for lunch is a breeze, thanks to the freedom my Stretto affords me.

Picture this: I roll out of my house, the wheels of my Stretto gliding effortlessly over the pavement. The hum of the motor is my companion as I navigate the familiar route to one of my favourite pubs. The shocks on my Stretto absorbed the bumps on the pavement along the way allowing me to have a smooth ride the entire way. Along the way, I pass by people walking their dogs, out for a run and just genuinely friendly faces, feeling a sense of independence and liberation that my Stretto gives me.

Arriving at the pub, I effortlessly steer through the door, greeted by the welcoming aroma of chicken wings and the sound of laughter from fellow patrons. Finding a table with ample space for my chair is a breeze, and soon I'm settling in, ready to enjoy good food, cold drinks and great company. I generally enjoy the taller bar-style tables, and with the iLevel feature on my Stretto, I raise my chair to the table amongst friends.

One of the beautiful parts about my Stretto is its ability to seamlessly integrate into social outings. Gone are the days of worrying about accessibility or feeling restricted by physical barriers. With my chair, I can join friends for lunch without hesitation, knowing that I can navigate almost any environment with ease.

It's not just about the practical aspects though; my Stretto has also opened up a world of opportunities for connection and community. Whether it's catching up with old friends or meeting new ones, going out for lunch has become something I look forward to weekly that strengthens bonds and fosters a sense of belonging in the community.

As I enjoy each bite of my meal (and plenty of laughs), surrounded by the warmth of friendship and the buzz of conversation, I'm reminded of the power of accessibility and inclusion. My Stretto isn't just a mode of transportation; it's a symbol of empowerment, allowing me to live life on my terms and embrace every opportunity that comes my way.

The next time you see someone zipping down the street in a power chair, know that they're not just going from point A to point B—they're embarking on a journey filled with freedom, independence, and perhaps the joy of sharing a meal or drink with friends. And for me, going out for lunch will always be an easy and enjoyable adventure, thanks to my trusty Stretto.