THE CHAIR and other stuff.

Just over a week ago we went to Whizzkids to try some electric wheelchairs.It was really interesting to see Oliver in the chairs,as opposed to just looking at brochures,as the reality of things can be so different. We decided on a different chair to the one we thought we were going to go for,as it was a bit disappointing. The ''Hippo'' [who chose that name ?! ] was miles ahead of the competition in terms of features,design and how comfortable Oliver looked in it. The added advantage is that,with just a change of seat base,it will last him until he weighs nine stones,into his teens. The chair is from a Dutch company,Moving People.net,and is so new it's not yet on their web site! It's the paediatric version of their Puma chair. It's capable of going over gravel,deep bark chippings,as in some play areas,rough terrain and not too soft sand. It has a feature where you can raise the seat height. Great for seeing someone eye to eye - no more cricks in the neck ! You'd be amazed how few people bother to get down to the chick's level to talk to him. He was so very thrilled to be able to be about as tall as daddy ! It'll be great for reaching shelves,and counters in shops. Although it has a speed limiter when raised you can still drive along,preferably indoors,so shopping will be even more fun. It's a favourite activity now and will be even better. It's been crash tested at all heights. It has headlights for after dark,indicators that come on automatically when turning and reverse light and bleeper ! Fab !
It took Oliver just minutes to work out the controls,including raising and lowering the chair,and he soon mastered driving it. It's a really practical,living chair,that will really enhance his life. Not for use in school though. They have to get used to him in a simpler electric wheelchair first,and to allowing him some independance.
So,the quote arrived on Saturday. We're not having the recline feature,just the tilt and raise. The joy stick position will be customised. There's no easy,more palatable way to write this,so sit down...

£7,989.00

We knew it would be up there,but it's still sobering to see the amount written down. Watch out Variety Club,there's a biggy heading your way !

I'm expecting a call about a trike this week,having rung them last week to hassle them. The car seat is being despatched from Denmark on the 12th,gets to the U.K. on the 18th,and to us on the 20th. We can hardly wait. We can only just squeeze Oliver into his current one,without thick clothing ! It can't be very comfortable for him.
That's the current state of play. All very exciting. On the edge of a new phase of life for Oliver. More independance,comfort and fun. Thanks to all of you and your incredible generosity.

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The knitting : Not much has been accomplished over the past week or so,for various reasons. I'm getting back into the groove now,with more time and energy to give to more selfish passtimes. Still not a lot to show !
The mystery garment is Ginny's cardigan,designed by Medrith Glover. The next two links are to pictures of Glenna's beautiful versions,with her kind permission : Oneandtwo. Those will make my progress pics from last week make more sense.


It's two balls of yarn bigger now,but much the same.

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I've had a sock on the go for ages. It was my waiting for Oliver knitting last term,then got neglected over the summer,and is now making some progress. I started the second sock on friday,and want the finished now ! A new pair are waiting to be started and I'm bored with them !

They'll soon be done now that I've decided on a recipient !