My 20-year-old sister Jane lives with our family in Georgia, GA. Last year, she was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a group of inherited connective tissue disorders. These disorders, caused by genetic changes in connective tissue, can lead to complications such as joint hypermobility, pain, and fatigue. Her doctor advises her to avoid excessive exercise and trauma to prevent complications such as vascular rupture that could threaten her life.
We carefully attended to her daily needs, always concerned about possible injury. Despite her diagnosis, Jane proactively followed her doctor's treatment plan and never complained or showed despair in front of us. However, one morning in her room, she unexpectedly burst into tears. When I confronted her about it, she admitted, "John, I can't handle anything on my own now." This was a rare moment of vulnerability for her. Since her diagnosis, she has silently carried a considerable psychological burden, always in fear of hurting herself. This fear has led her to avoid going out, fearing she will be a burden to others.
It was incredibly painful for me to see her cry. I wanted to do something for her. I decided to get her a mobility aid to help her get around, explore the outdoors, and relieve stress. I originally wanted to get her a wheelchair, but she wouldn't be able to push it herself, so I think a mobility scooter would be an amazing mobility aid and tool for her to use on a daily basis, especially during flare-ups when her walker isn't enough.
On the recommendation of a friend, I bought the D91 Fold-Go Revolutionary Foldable Mobility Scooter. I took it to our front door and called Jane from downstairs. When she opened the window, she was surprised. When I asked her to come down, she hesitated, but eventually did.
"I told her that she could use it to go to the park, visit her doctor, or even travel by plane. After hearing this, she still hesitated and expressed her concerns. "What if I fall?" she asked. I reassured her and said, "This mobility scooter is very stable, with 4 solid PU tires, suitable for various terrains, and it can carry up to 265 pounds. If used properly, there is no danger." Despite my explanation, Jane remained cautious. "This mobility scooter only uses the muscles of the upper body, the seat is made of leather for comfort, and it does not put any strain on the body or pose any risk of injury. It also has shock-absorbing properties," I added. Finally, Jane was convinced and got on the scooter. Following my instructions, she first turned the key, started the engine, set the speed to a low setting, and then turned the handle. The scooter started moving. She rode a short distance in the yard, and contrary to her initial fears, the whole process went smoothly. She was a little excited and became more and more confident as she ventured out onto the lawn, gravel paths, and nearby streets. The whole experience was stable and safe.
Over the next few days, I accompanied Jane to Walmart to buy clothes, went to a local cafe for afternoon tea, and visited a flower shop. We explored many places, and since the scooter has a range of 15 miles, we didn't have to worry about the battery running out. Gradually, her mood improved and she became more and more outgoing. Later, she frequently went out alone and met up with friends. Jane was no longer the lonely person she once was, but was reconnecting with the world, and we were all happy for her.
In September last year, we visited Canada and Jane brought her scooter with her. After landing, we rented a car locally, folded the mobility scooter into the trunk and simply took it out whenever she needed it. At the wheel of her scooter, she explored numerous sights, immersed herself in the local culture, enjoyed different cuisines and captured many memories in photos. With International Women's Day just around the corner, she also plans to take part in local EDS volunteer activities with her D91 mobility scooter.
With the VOCIC D91 mobility scooter, she is now actively enjoying her life. This mobility scooter has given her many beautiful experiences and brought her out of a slump. When the VOCIC team reached out to us, we were thrilled and honored. Many people with this disease feel isolated, become depressed or lose hope. I share Jane's story in the hope that her experiences will inspire other EDS patients. And I also want to tell them that life is hard and the pain is daunting, but you are not alone.
