What type of vehicle do you drive and how is it adapted for you?
I drive a Volkswagen Golf Plus. Fifteen years ago I suffered a stroke, which left me paralysed on my right side. In short, I can’t move my right arm and have minimal mobility in my right leg. This means I need to accelerate and brake with my left foot. Autoadapt helped me to install a left foot accelerator. When my husband, Thomas, drives the car, he can easily make it right foot accelerated again. It’s like magic, don’t you think?
I also have a steering device, which is really helpful when you only have one functional arm.
How did you come up with this solution?
I had an assessment meeting with the product specialist at Autoadapt Bilanpassning. He helped me find an adaptation solution that not only would work for me but also be in line with what I dreamed to be able to do. Even though it had been nine years since I last drove a car the Volkswagen Golf and I hit it off on the first drive!
Is this your first adapted vehicle?
Yes, I got my car in 2013. According to Swedish disability grant regulations, I can apply for a new car every 9 years. So it’s getting close, but I love my car and the adaptation works really well.
What will be the main difference for you with this new adaptation?
The car gives me freedom, but also safety. For example, I don’t have to worry about falling when it’s slippery outside. Also, I’m freer to be spontaneous as I don’t have to plan ahead as I used to when I relied on transport services.
If you could choose freely where in the world would you take your adapted vehicle?
I often drive with our family to our summer house on the west coast. It is our favourite place and driving there is something I very much enjoy. It’s such a great feeling to be behind the wheel.