National Assistive Technology Act Data System

A twenty-something man with quadriplegia applied for the ND Assistive Last Resort program, the Possibilities Grant, to help him acquire a special lighting package for his wheelchair. This lighting package would allow him the freedom to go out at night and still be seen by others, especially oncoming vehicles and bikes. This particular wheelchair add-on, recommended by his physical therapist, was not covered by his insurance or any other funding avenue, so his therapist suggested that he contact ND Assistive. ND Assistive raises dollars through donations and various fundraisers to help ND residents with disabilities obtain the assistive technology (AT) they need for independence. All the dollars raised go directly toward the purchase of AT through the ND Assistive Possibilities Grant program. This program is intended to be a last resort, and cannot supplant other public funding avenues (e.g., vocational rehabilitation or public schools). The man reported, “Prior to me getting my LED lights on my electric wheelchair, I was limited to taking trips only during the day. Otherwise, if I was out in the dark I could not see what was exactly in front of me or it made it hard for me to be visible to cars. Thanks to the Possibilities Grant I now can be out and take trips in the dark with my electric wheelchair with my LED Lights. These lights are on the fender both in the front and back of my electric wheelchair. They allow me now to see about 5 feet in front of me as well as I am more visible to cars now. These LED lights allow for more independence and safety for me. Some insurance plans will help pay for needed assistive technology; but if they will not cover it, I would encourage them to reach out to ND Assistive and fill out an application!”