”….I don’t know what I’d do without them!”
Karen Patterson, an El Dorado resident and retired special education teacher, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis approximately 20 years ago. Over time she has come to require a very specialized seating system for her power wheelchair. The system is custom made by the Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation in collaboration with United Cerebral Palsy.
The chair itself has tilt and recline features that allow Karen to re position herself in order to remain comfortable. Leg raisers allow her to improve circulation in her legs. Lateral supports help prevent scoliosis and keep her upright to facilitate breathing and digestion. A specially fitted seat cushion helps prevent pressure sores from developing. The chair provides Karen with the mobility she needs to make it to medical appointments as well.
Karen admits she is somewhat amazed by all the things the seating clinic has done to make her life easier and help assure her health and independence. Karen sums it up by saying ”I don’t know what I’d do without them!”.