At 23 years old neither Taylor nor myself thought we would be spending the day shopping for minivans. On the top of that we didn’t think we would be finding ourselves saying; Oooo I like that one or check out this one Taylor or dang that’s a cool van! But that was our day today.
Our day consisted of 5 hours in the showroom and walking around the car lot looking at adaptable vans. Initially we thought we could bypass the van route but after a lot of careful consideration, Taylor and I agree that a van is the best decision for our current situation. Even though Taylor’s end goal is to be able to drive a vehicle without adaptive devices, Taylor and I understand that is a long-term goal not an immediate goal. A van will allow us to get around with ease on the days Taylor’s legs hurt and he can’t wear his legs. A van will allow us to be able to take the electric wheelchair on road trips, to the mall, or other places where he wants to have the freedom to move independently. Not to mention, a van will allow Taylor to get behind the wheel as soon as possible; something I know he is beyond eager to do. If a van helps bridge the gap to independence for the next few years then a van is the coolest vehicle on the roads right now. A van will not only give Taylor the independence to run an errand on his own or drive me around the busy streets of DC but a van will give me added independence. With Taylor being able to be on his own more and more (soon enough on the roads independently) leaves me with more time to do the things I love (calling my family I miss so much, gym, scrapbooking). Taylor and I have always worked well together but sometimes the best work needs to be delegated. Divide and conquer. For example, Taylor runs to the grocery store to get the missing ingredient for dinner while I start preparing the beginning stages of the meal. So as much as we thought a van wouldn’t be a purchase at 23, we decided it is the very best option at this point in our rehab process and life.
Today we went into the van shopping with an open mind but well researched and knowledgeable on our options. My favorite part was picking out the exterior color, seat material, interior color… So while I was asking Taylor what his favorite body shape of the different vans; he would turn to the sales associate ask about the transmission, front wheel versus four wheel drive, the difference between a side ramp and back ramp. Between my eye for detail in design and Taylor’s mechanical intuition we made a good team at the dealership!
As a quad for 33 years and an adaptive van user (both mini and full size) one thing to consider that isn’t readily apparent while looking at options is the ride. Suspension is often poor when they modify the van and drop the floor. Just a “heads up” to drive various versions and get a feel for your comfort. Also, sometimes while lowering the floor they neglect to insulate it adequately and they can be loud, sometimes too loud to chat with back seat riders.
Best wishes…