I recently posted on a couple of manual wheelchairs which had just hit the market. Katja, from the Brokenclay Journal blog happened by and left a comment on the post which started off with the word “Gorgeous”.

I must have starred at that word for 5 minutes with what I believe was the nearest thing to an ecstatic look that my gnarly face could manage. I have been told that my face does not lend itself well to expressions other than disbelief and horror. Hey, give me a break. I have kids you know!

Anyway, what had me doing facial contortions was the realization that many of today’s wheelers are placing a top priority on how their wheelchairs look. Rather, how they and the wheelchair look. It may not sound like a big deal but for those of us who have been around long enough to accumulate an expansive retrospect it is.

There was a time when gorgeous, cool, and even pretty were not an option. Your only option was 50 pounds of boxed out chrome and aluminum with upholstery the color of rotting spinach.

Sure, there were always those few folks who would take matters into their own hands and try to turn that sow’s ear into a silk purse. I have known scores of wheelers who went this route-

Take the wheelchair to the local car mechanic.
On the way throw the armrests out of the car window (if the window was big enough).
Have the mechanic cut the push handles and half of the back frame off.
Have him add some washers to the axles to give the wheels some cool camber.
Take the chair to the auto body shop and have them paint the frame purple and the wheels and spokes fire engine red.
While the paint is drying head over to the upholstery shop.
Pick out a leftover paisley fabric and have them make new upholstery for your wheelchair.
Go home and try to convince laughing friends that the wheelchair is now gorgeous.

There are very few things that become more a part of a person than a wheelchair. Some starched white clinicians may rant on about wheelchair functionality and practicality and some may not. In either case there is a reality that is often forgotten- It’s not about the wheelchair, it’s about the person in it.

It is certainly pleasing to see that wheelchair users and some manufacturers are placing a priority on appearance. So if you feel you need to project your persona, make a statement, feel good about yourself, look gorgeous, or appear rugged, go right ahead. Make it a top priority. Trick out your present wheelchair or go for what makes you happy on the next one. After all, it’s all about you.

Some of my favorite eye candy. Not based on durability or cost or anything other than I love the looks of these. Obviously, these are all crafted wheelchairs.
	BMW Titanium Round lines and forward thrusting front end make it for me.
	New Halls Hallmark Out of production for a number of years. Like the Mona Lisa- Timeless beauty.
	Lasher Sport BT-G Tribal Minimalist in form with artistic cutouts. Hot!
Do you have a personal favorite?