Kierra is an active kid, thriving in the hallways of her middle school. Her teachers say she is the social butterfly of her class and is always seen with friends. Those friends used to push her chair from class to class, but now they walk alongside Kierra while she navigates her Permobil F3 Power Chair with Complex Power Tilt.

Kierra’s parents, Wendy and Rob initially resisted the school’s urge to incorporate more Complex Rehab Technology into her daytime schedule. Wendy and Rob wanted her walking as much as possible, so the thought of a power chair scared them.

However, Kierra’s ATP, Todd, acted as a liaison between the two parties and knew a healthy agreement could be found with a little time, patience and education.

“The first day she gets in the power chair, grabs the joystick and drives to me is huge because all of a sudden, she’s independent. It’s hard because you want to be happy, but in reality, it’s the progression of a disease and she’s losing her mobility. You’re sad the disease is progressing, and she has to use this tool but thank God we have the tool. She can now do things she couldn’t do at the time,” says Kierra’s ATP, Todd.

Kierra’s parents, Wendy and Rob initially resisted the school’s urge to incorporate more Complex Rehab Technology into her daytime schedule. Wendy and Rob wanted her walking as much as possible, so the thought of a power chair scared them. However, Kierra’s ATP, Todd, acted as a liaison between the two parties and knew a healthy agreement could be found with a little time, patience and education.

“The first day she gets in the power chair, grabs the joystick and drives to me is huge because all of a sudden, she’s independent. It’s hard because you want to be happy, but in reality, it’s the progression of a disease and she’s losing her mobility. You’re sad the disease is progressing, and she has to use this tool but thank God we have the tool. She can now do things she couldn’t do at the time,” says Kierra’s ATP, Todd.

Todd knew Kierra would eventually need the power chair, so he left a loaner at the family’s house for a few weeks. After much encouragement, Kierra gave it a try and loved it. She quickly discovered the independence that it could provide.

Kierra has always been active — she participates in physical education classes, plays in the band, is a cheerleader, attends therapeutic horseback riding courses, is the North Carolina MDA Ambassador and considers everyone a friend. Now she can live her active lifestyle without relying on friends and family to push her everywhere.