For four decades, Abilities Expo has been the source for the community of people with disabilities, their families, senior citizens, veterans and healthcare professionals.
I am just so happy to see little girls in wheelchairs, having fun and seeing the smiles on their faces,” beamed LAJONETE SEETO, a cheerleader for the Rollettes just before the Rollettes showed off their athleticism, delighting the throngs of people who attended the 2018 Abilities Expo; February 23-25th at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
MS. SEETO, a native of Australia made her across the world voyage to the United States last year. She had never even been to America, and there she was being whisked away to the floor of the Convention Center.
The first booth she visits is labeled boldly in all possible places, “Ability Tools” displaying interactive gadgets that provide independence and freedom. Letting voices be heard for the first time, located in this area as well, is a pilot program called: Voice options, a California speech technology program connecting those with speech-language disabilities to iPads with speech apps. In particular, the Go Talk 4+ Ipad, complete with chat wrap and other communication apps.
Play Activity Area area in a word, inspiring. Seeto watches children of mixed age shoot hoops and perform other physical activities under the disguise of face paint.
The Abilities Expo becomes a WHEELCHAIR WOODSTOCK for many who are allowed the opportunity to meet exceptional individuals and the boisterous, energetic few who love the limelight.
Larry Hernandez was hard to miss, his behemoth wheelchair, his garb, Laker Purple and Gold from head to toe, has enjoyed attending more than 30 Abilities Expos.
It was exciting to meet others who share my difficulties and experiences being handicapped. Oftentimes, our only chance to see others is in the waiting rooms of doctors or therapy appointments. The Expo opened many doors for people to connect. Meanwhile, the Pride Mobility Booth offered Loaner Scooters for EXPO visitors.
The variety of wheelchairs is astounding. While many in the not so distant past are dystopian the ones on display at Abilities Expo are made for comfort with some allowing one to stand straight up, while others are frankly out of this world. For instance, there is this speedy low to the ground chair – neon green wheels blazing past bewildered eyes, actually resembling a chariot fit for Caesar.
One of the many perks is a new line of electric wheelchairs which allow the user to zoom between the tables and equipment with their heads controlling the movement.
Mieron Virtual Reality Therapy is a groundbreaking state of the art company on exhibit at the expo. It helps the agonizing, painful aspects of physical therapy by transporting you anywhere in the world. Just dawn the 3D goggles, and you will be walking down the steep and majestic Grand Canyon, or tight-roping that is sure to awaken your fear of heights.
Unfortunately, all things must pass. The Abilities Expo travels across North America for the remainder of 2018. For more info visit: abilitiesexpo.com
