Accessible on the road

A little while back we were able to have a visit from a company that sells the MV1 accessible van.  This is not a van that was modified to be accessible.  It is the first purpose built accessible van on the market.  Finally, a company that is innovative in its thinking!

As Sophie gets bigger, longer and heavier we know that there will come a time where it is no longer realistic, or possible, for me to be lifting her into the car everyday.  We aren't there yet but she is seven years and 46 pounds now so it isn't too far off in the future.  Lifting her wheelchair into the van is incredibly difficult and I would love it if I never had to do it again.

Because our driveway is very steep we know that a traditional modified van will not work, it would bottom out every time we pull in the driveway.  Also, the rear entry ramps wouldn't work on the steep incline either.  The MV1 sits high like a regular van or SUV because the ramp is not an afterthought.  And it is a side entry ramp which works perfectly for our driveway and ramp to the house.

The only downfall that we can see is that there is no passenger side seat available if Sophie is in the car in her wheelchair.  That is not the greatest but not a deal breaker either.  It just means that Lucas and I sit in the back beside each other.  There is the option of a jump seat and Lucas thought that was awesome, it would be just like the British taxis we rode in.

We have some time to make a decision but we were excited by the prospect of an accessible vehicle and all the luxury that brings.  We are starting to save up so that hopefully in the next two years or so we can have an accessible van to call our own.  My back is happy just at the thought of it.  :)