Derbyshire woman using social media and new wheelchair to show the way for disabled Peak District visitors
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Naomi Wheeler, 27, of Matlock, was diagnosed with the neurological condition ataxia when she was 23, which quickly progressed to affect her balance, coordination, reflexes and speech.
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Hide AdAfter receiving her new chair, she has decided to begin documenting her life and excursions in the national park as @3wheeledrambler on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, which she hopes will be useful to other disabled travellers.
She said: “I’m the happiest I’ve been for a long time, which is why I decided to launch my social media accounts. I want to show a true picture of disability and if I can help someone else in a similar position then I will.”
Initially Naomi used a basic wheelchair for outdoor use, but using it for long periods caused her back and neck pain, so she went looking for something more suitable.
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Hide AdShe comments: “I really wanted something that would reflect my personality and lifestyle. I’m young and live in the Peak District where disability can be extra challenging because of the terrain. I didn’t want to be limited. I have plans. I love to go and see my favourite places.
“The NHS offered me a heavy powerchair which couldn’t fit in our car and would require a lift. I knew it wouldn’t allow me to fulfil my dreams.”
Naomi was referred to mobility and rehabilitation specialists Recare Ltd in Oxfordshire, who let her trial the all-terrain Trekinetic GTE powered wheelchair.
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Hide AdShe said: “I knew it was the wheelchair to get me places. However, I needed to pay some of the cost myself and unfortunately, I lost my job as a team leader in a charity call centre because of the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Undeterred, Naomi and her neuro physiotherapist at Chesterfield Royal began applying to charities for support and eventually landed £4,000 in grants.
Naomi said: “I am thrilled to now be a Trekinetic owner. I have seen places I thought I would never see again. Before, there were days when I couldn’t be motivated by anything. I just went into my shell. Now, I’m tired as I’m going out so much but I’m so much more content.”