We recently conducted a candid interview with Jacqueline, who kindly agreed to share her personal experience with battling Multiple sclerosis (MS). As she struggles to maintain her independence and dignity as a family and career-oriented woman - while enduring excruciating symptoms - Jacqueline tells us that mindset and confidence are crucial keys to survival.
Jacqueline was recently given an ATTO Classic mobility scooter and she has agreed to review the experience for us, from her personal viewpoint, in the hopes of helping others make the life-changing decision of acquiring a mobility scooter.
1. What were your first impressions of the ATTO?
My first impression of the ATTO was a feeling of gladness. I was impressed with the sleek style, its portability and most of all the size. When anyone has mobility issues- people stare. This makes one feel self-conscious and ashamed of their health condition. The ATTO encourages confidence and provides dignity to those of us whose bodies often betray us with various symptoms.
2. As someone who struggles to survive - and thrive - with MS, what does independent mobility mean to you?
Independent Mobility means freedom for me. ATTO is extremely easy to use and enables me to attain independence and to not rely on others or be a prisoner to MS. The battery ensures I have enough miles for the day as it is extremely light and can be charged using external outlets anywhere.
3. What was the first ride you took? What was it like?
The first ride I took with the ATTO took place inside my home. I rode it from kitchen to living room. The glare from the display was too bright but my husband showed me how to adjust it. Most people with MS have sensitive optic nerves which makes light painful, so adjusting the display screen allowed me to focus on the ride. I would like a mirror of some sort, so I don’t have to strain my neck when I go backwards but the ride indoors was fun which surprised me. The first outdoor ride was at the beach. The speed of the ATTO lessened my stress as I was able to cross streets with ease. However, going over cobblestone and various bumps were a bit uncomfortable and I thought an extra seat cushion may reduce the shock absorption as my spine is affected by MS. As I drove the ATTO outside, it gathered attention from every individual and many commented with curiosity and interest. I was glad to be using the ATTO rather than a bulky scooter as no one thought “disability” upon seeing the ATTO.
4. Are you able to fold the scooter and open it up independently?
Yes, I am able to independently fold the scooter and when it is in two sections I am able to lift it which is very nice.
5. What do you like most about the ATTO?
I like the design of the ATTO best. I often describe it to people as “sleek” and “attractive”. For many people with mobility issues this is not often the norm, so to be able to drive an ATTO makes it a worthy investment.
6. Do you use any ATTO accessories like the armrests or the backpack? How do they help improve your experience?
The armrest is my favorite accessory and the phone holder! I was thinking about how fun it will be to FaceTime family while I’m out. The arm rest allows my back to rest so I’m able to move with ease. I have not tried the other accessories.
7. What kinds of reactions have you received from your environment with regards to the ATTO?
The first reactions I received were from people outside, who stopped what they were doing to watch me on the ATTO and most were very curious. I heard various comments from “Oh! What is that?” to “I need one of those!”, and “That’s so cool”.
8. Would you recommend the ATTO to others with MS? Why is this scooter a good fit for this specific chronic illness?
I always recommend the ATTO to anyone I speak with because it reduces stress and allows anyone with mobility issues to enjoy a positive experience as it is very easy to unfold and the portability of the ATTO encourages independence. Investing in an ATTO gives a priceless sense of freedom, dignity, relaxation and happiness. For those with MS - the ATTO may be used when our various symptoms occur. MS affects every individual differently, but fatigue is the most common followed by balance challenges. The ATTO is unobtrusive and easy to maneuver so turning and getting through a crowd while adhering to social distancing is not a problem with an ATTO. I was very fatigued the first time I tried the ATTO and it helped that I was able to get around the house without bumping into furniture. As Covid has increased in our state - having an ATTO is an excellent tool in navigating away from contamination in completing errands such as shopping or getting fresh air and Vitamin D outdoors safely.
9. What is your most ambitious aspiration for you and your ATTO?
My most ambitious venture with an ATTO is to visit the various healing sites around the world while capturing the moments on video which will be shared with others to bring them hope, encouragement and their own inner healing as they realize their illness does not define or limit who they were created to be, and every adventure is possible as they conquer their fears and happily recognize their own inner potential.
10. Any closing message for our limited mobility readers out there?
As we all face an uncertain 2021 it is comforting to know we have some control over how we choose to react to it. I always tell people an ATTO is a wise investment in overall health as it will provide peace of mind, dependability and fun when driving it. Price is sometimes an issue but the cost of stress, anxiety and the depressive look of bulky large scooters make the ATTO a worthwhile investment on their path to physical and psychological healing. Cost can sometimes be an issue but when you think of the physical exertion and psychological stress from having to maneuver, pack, assemble or disassemble the traditional bulky scooter- the ATTO is an excellent investment. Life is meant to be lived and now we may enjoy the ride an ATTO provides. Investing in our health is a wise and positive opportunity as we all journey on various paths towards strengthening self worth, freedom and joyful independence.
