Every time I leave the house in my power wheelchair and people see me on the streets, they ask how my wheelchair elevates to iLevel. They always comment on how cool it is! What they don’t realize is how much iLevel on my Quantum® Edge® 3 Power Wheelchair has changed my life. Let me tell you how iLevel helps me be the best version of myself. I’ve had many wheelchairs in the past. I’ve been driving one since I was 18 months old. (Most people usually say 18 years!) iLevel technology, however, is one thing that has changed my life the most.
Using iLevel in School
When I was still attending school (pre-pandemic), I usually ended up stuck in the hallways behind eighth grade butts and having people trip over me because they couldn’t see me. Now, I can elevate to iLevel and push right through them.
During the first few days of school, when I didn’t know where to sit for lunch, I raise my power wheelchair seat up 12 inches, giving me a bird’s eye view of who was sitting at each lunch table. Then, I could figure out where I wanted to sit.
Another game changer for me during school was having the ability to do labs in science. I could finally reach the lab tables and be a part of the assignment, instead of getting the printed version and not experiencing the full lab.
Eating Out with iLevel
Before COVID-19, we enjoyed eating out at restaurants. Before iLevel on my motorized wheelchair, I had to sit apart from everyone else because I couldn’t reach the tables. Tables are restaurants are at different heights and I usually ended up putting the plate of food on my lap. Now with iLevel, I can be a part of the conversation and not feel left out. Plus, I get to eat with my family and friends!
iLevel has also given me a sense of confidence, independence, and responsibility. I was recently ordered my own ice cream. I elevated my power wheelchair seat, rolled up to the counter and ordered for myself. I actually felt like a real 13 year old!
Communicating with Others
Before having iLevel on my motorized wheelchair, people used to bend down to speak to me. Now I can roll right up in them and look them in the eye and say, “Hi, here I am!” and have a full conversation. I’ve been able to make more friends and participate in events at the same level as my peers.
Using iLevel at Home
Having iLevel allows me to help with more chores around the house now. I can do laundry, dust high areas, help put things away in cabinets that before were barely visible to me. When my mom is going to the grocery store, I can help her by reaching things on the shelves and putting them in the cart. Of course, that is not possible now due to quarantine, however, hopefully soon I will be back in the stores to shop until I drop.
My brother has also been greatly affected by iLevel. He’s not used to me being taller than him. It might not seem like it, but it comes in handy sometimes when I have to play the older sister card! I can play with him in so many new ways that I never thought possible.
Taking Selfies with iLevel
One of the greatest things about having iLevel on my motorized wheelchair is that I’m able to take unlimited selfies with my friends while at the same height as them. I use my phone mount as a selfie stick sometimes.
In the end, I’m incredibly grateful to have iLevel because it has completely changed my life. It makes me a better person and helps me live my life to the fullest!
About Sakina Shamsi: Sakina lives in New Jersey with her parents and brother. Although she has spinal muscular atrophy type II, Sakina lives a full and independent lifestyle. She is active in the disability community and enjoys horseback riding, baking and crafting. Click here to learn more about Sakina.
For more great blogs from our brand ambassadors and Q Roll Models, visit lifeatilevel.com today!
Return to the Life At iLevel page
