Driving Aids Help a Paralyzed Man in Chandler, AZ Drive Again

Marcos Castillo's remarkable journey to regain his independence and achieve his dream of driving again is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit. Marcos experienced a life-altering accident that left him paralyzed with limited mobility in his arms and hands. In a world where obstacles can seem daunting, Marcos's story serves as a shining example of perseverance and determination. With the help of United Access Chandler, Arizona, his driving instructor, and his family, Marcos is back on the road to independence.

Marcos’s Mobility Journey

At the age of 18, Marcos was involved in a life-altering auto accident that left him paralyzed from the collarbone down, with no use of his legs and limited mobility in his arms and hands. For many, the idea of ever driving again may have seemed impossible, but Marcos refused to give up on his dream. With the support of United Access in Chandler and his dedicated driving instructor, Marcos embarked on a journey that would span over five years, culminating in him taking the wheel of his very own wheelchair accessible vehicle for the first time since his accident.

Driving After Paralysis

The road to independence was not an easy one for Marcos. It required countless hours of fundraising, totaling nearly fourteen thousand dollars, along with securing a loan to help cover the costs of the accessible vehicle. Also, Marcos had to undergo extensive vehicle and driver testing with a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist. He logged between 20 to 30 hours behind the wheel under his instructor's guidance. Despite the numerous obstacles along the way, Marcos remained steadfast in his determination to reclaim his freedom and independence.

Driving Aids Installed with United Access Chandler

Marcos worked with the team at United Access in Chandler, AZ, and his driver evaluator to find the driving aids and vehicle that best fit his needs to get back on the road. The technology integrated into Marcos's new vehicle is nothing short of revolutionary. Every aspect of his accessible vehicle, from the gas and brakes to the steering, windows, and wipers, can be controlled either by his hands or his head. A specially designed headrest lowers from the ceiling, allowing Marcos to operate essential functions with precision and ease. The advanced features of his accessible vehicle provide Marcos with a newfound sense of freedom and independence that he once thought may never be possible.

Road to Driving Independence

Reflecting on his journey, Marcos acknowledges the many challenges he faced along the way. From the physical limitations imposed by his paralysis to the financial burdens of acquiring a wheelchair accessible vehicle, the road to driving again was paved with obstacles. However, with unwavering determination and the support of his loving family, including his wife and three children, Marcos pressed on toward his goal.

For Marcos, driving is not merely a means of transportation but a symbol of freedom and empowerment. The wide-open spaces and endless possibilities of the open road have always represented a sense of liberation for Marcos, a reminder of the life he once knew before his accident. While some may view long drives as a mundane task, Marcos sees them as an opportunity to embrace the world around him and connect with his loved ones. Marcos continued his journey toward obtaining his Arizona driver's license, and he remained focused on his goal of driving his family to Yosemite National Park.

United Access was proud to be a part of Marcus’s journey to independence and getting back on the road. A range of adaptive steering aids, controls, equipment, and wheelchair van accessories to help individuals with disabilities regain their mobility and independence are offered at United Access. They emphasize the importance of undergoing a comprehensive driving evaluation by a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist to ensure the safety of both the individual and other drivers on the road. United Access has built great relationships with Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialists in all markets. Like Marcus and his driver evaluator, the evaluation done by a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist ensures the appropriate driving aids are prescribed by a thorough evaluation.

Marcos Castillo's story is a beacon of hope for anyone facing adversity or struggling to overcome obstacles in their own lives. His unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of his dreams serve as a reminder that with perseverance and a positive mindset, anything is achievable. As Marcos sets his sights on the open road ahead, we have no doubt that he will continue to inspire others with his courage and resilience.