At GRIT, we are lucky to make connections with the folks using our products—individuals who redefine what’s possible with their own grit and the right equipment beneath them. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Pat B., a rider from just outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Pat’s journey with his GRIT Freedom Chair is a powerful example of how adaptive equipment can restore independence, open up new adventures, and reconnect people with the activities and communities they love.
In this spotlight, Pat shares how the GRIT Freedom Chair transformed his daily life—from overcoming mobility challenges to creating memories with his family. Whether you’re considering an all-terrain wheelchair for yourself or a loved one, or you simply want to enjoy the conversation, continue reading!
Thanks for your time, Pat. Can you start by telling us a little bit about yourself?
I live a few miles outside of Philadelphia. Back in 1984, I was diagnosed with a rare condition called Brown-Séquard Syndrome, which has resulted in a slow degeneration of my spinal cord, in my neck. Over the past several years, I started having great difficulty walking. I had always been very physically active, but that had been cut dramatically…until I got the GRIT Freedom Chair.
How was your first ride in your GRIT Freedom Chair? Has your experience improved since your first ride?
A friend, who passed suddenly, left specific instructions for his wife to get me a GRIT Freedom Chair. He and I had seen it online in 2017. I was both surprised and excited to hear it was on the way. I took little time assembling it. The first ride was better than I hoped. Controlling the steering was a little tricky until I put the pegs on, thanks to the people at GRIT. Since then, I use it not only to get out and about, I use it to shop, to walk my dog (he loves it) to socialize with neighbors and friends. Awesome!
How do you use your GRIT Freedom Chair? Solo rides, family rides, any unique attachments or tips/tricks you use?
I use the chair for many, many things. I take rides on bike paths, open fields, walks with my wife, gardening, outdoor beer garden with friends, socializing on a scale that has been gone for some time. Along with the pegs, the upgraded gear is a godsend. I adapted a Jeep tube rig for other devices. I have a backpack and adapted a container for necessary medical supplies.
What has been your favorite memory in your GRIT Freedom Chair so far?
One of my fondest memories is taking a 20-mile ride by myself.
Anything else you’d like to tell us about you and your GRIT Freedom Chair?
If, for any reason, I can’t use the chair, I feel homebound. And with my ever-decreasing leg strength and stability, I count more and more on my GRIT Freedom Chair.
And, on a special note, every time I’ve had an issue either with a question or need of a repair; the staff/friends at GRIT have bent over backward to resolve the issue. I have never had a more responsive and positive relation with a company.
I keep going to the web site to check on the latest. I also belong to a couple of Facebook pages. I have been stopped and asked about my chair countless times and I have recommended the chair to many, many people, special needs centers, etc.
Conclusion: A Practical Tool for Everyday Life
Pat’s experience highlights how the GRIT Freedom Chair can be a reliable, adaptable, straightforward solution for people looking to stay active and independent. From getting around the neighborhood to tackling longer rides, Pat uses his chair for both everyday tasks and recreation. His story shows how the right equipment can make daily life easier and open up more opportunities to stay engaged with family, friends, and the community.
If you’re interested in learning how the GRIT Freedom Chair could work for you, visit our product page or contact our team. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you find the best fit for your needs.