Embracing Challenges, Inspiring Change
Hello there! I'm Lynda, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to my world through the virtual doors of Wheelie Essential. My journey has been a remarkable one, defined by triumphs over adversity, a passion for sports, and an unwavering commitment to making life better for people with disabilities. Allow me to share my story with you.
Born with Spina Bifida, life handed me a unique set of challenges right from the start. But challenges are simply opportunities in disguise, and I've always believed in seizing them with open arms. At the tender age of 9, I found my solace in sports. My competitive spirit ignited, and I dove headfirst into the world of athletic pursuits.
At 14, I took an unconventional path, leaving the comforts of home to forge my own path towards independence. The desire to carve my destiny was strong within me, and I was determined to overcome any obstacles that stood in my way. This decision laid the foundation for a life characterised by resilience and a drive to inspire others.
A twist of fate led me to become a foster mother at the age of 19. Nurturing an 8 and 10-year-old was no small feat, but it only solidified my belief in the power of compassion and empathy. This experience enriched my life in ways I couldn't have imagined, teaching me invaluable lessons about the strength of the human spirit.
The year 2000 marked a pivotal milestone in my journey. Competing at the Paralympics, I stood tall on the podium, draped in silver medals for shot put and discus. The culmination of years of dedication and unwavering determination, this achievement fuelled my passion for sports and proved that dreams could indeed be realised. Read this article about me: From Paralympian to Entrepreneur.
As the years rolled by, I embarked on journeys that spanned the globe. My athletic pursuits led me to far-flung corners of the earth, where I encountered both the beauty of diverse cultures and the challenges of navigating a world that wasn't always designed with accessibility in mind. But times were changing, and so was the world around me.
Reflecting on my own struggles as a wheelchair user, I was driven to make a lasting impact. After the Paralympics in 2000, I retired from sports, worked several different jobs, one was in Medical Emergency where I found my love for helping people. I then went on and founded Choice Consultancy, an endeavour dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities in their pursuit of a better life. Together, we embraced challenges and turned them into stepping stones to success.
Life in a wheelchair is a journey of its own, filled with unique hurdles to overcome. The world has evolved significantly since my childhood, and I've been witness to its transformation. I remember the days when accessible buses were a rarity, leaving me waiting for hours. Today, every bus welcome individuals of all abilities, embodying a world that's gradually becoming more inclusive.
A recent trip to Perth, a journey I've taken numerous times, opened my eyes to new possibilities. Struggling with luggage was a recurring issue, until I discovered a game-changing solution—a bag on wheels that attached to my wheelchair like a trusty companion. This revelation sparked a thought: what other products could simplify the lives of wheelchair users? And thus, Wheelie Essential was born.
Wheelie Essential isn't just a brand; it's a reflection of my commitment to innovation and empowerment. Each product we curate is designed to enhance the lives of individuals who, like me, embrace challenges with grace and determination. From innovative mobility solutions to lifestyle accessories that marry functionality with style, Wheelie Essential is here to redefine what's possible.
Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey. Together, let's celebrate the spirit of resilience, the joy of pursuing passions, and the power of positive change. Welcome to Wheelie Essential—where independence meets innovation, and the extraordinary becomes every day.