What My Stretto Means to Me

by Marie Pontini

A Beautiful Day In The Park with My Stretto

I had such a fun day at Visitation Island, a tranquil oasis connected to Montreal, Quebec. The sun warms my skin as we journey along a path lined with trees, wildflowers, and the earthy scent of greenery, with birds singing nearby as our soundtrack.

We move along a rocky trail, each twist and turn revealing new pockets of beauty, until we find a spot under the shade of a weeping willow by the waterfront. The branches of the willow drape down, creating a natural curtain that shields us from the midday sun. The soft lapping of the Saint Lawrence River against the shore blends with the playful sounds of ducks splashing nearby, and, in the distance, and we can hear the occasional honk and flurry of geese skirmishing.

My friend and I settle in our power wheelchairs, enjoying the scene before us. We unpack our lunch, spreading it out picnic-style, and indulge in this quiet moment surrounded by nature. We take in the beauty of our surroundings—the gentle swaying of the trees, the glistening water, and the bursts of wild greenery that frame our view.

We are immersed in this blissful escape. The usual burdens of pain, illness, and fatigue fade, replaced by simple, profound enjoyment. We laugh, talk, and share stories as we soak up the serene atmosphere. This journey isn’t just about the ride; it’s a time to strengthen our friendship, to find peace in the company of nature, and to experience life fully in a way we both cherish.

Moments like these would be out of reach without my Stretto Edge3 power wheelchair from Quantum Rehab. This chair has given me a new sense of freedom, enabling me to enjoy experiences full of laughter, connection, and the beauty of nature. To me, that's the true essence of my Stretto.