As someone who’s dad was in a wheelchair I can definitely confirm that just because someone may have a disability or may not be able to walk it doesn’t mean that they can’t be a good parent. Yes my dad found it tricky sometimes and it upset him that he couldn’t always do things how other parents did them but it didn’t stop him loving being a dad. I actually loved having a disabled parent from a very young age. It meant that we got to cue jump when we went to amusement parks or we didn’t have to cue for a taxi or when we went to gigs or festivals I alway had a seat if I got tired. And when I was like 2/3 I didn’t use a buggy I just sat on his lap and say “wheelchair pooster coming though “ (I couldn’t say user till I was five) .Now I know that may sound bad and that I took advantage of his disability but I did it was just the added perks of having him as a dad and he actually loved that I liked them. Yes people did bully me and make fun of me and always always asked if I was adopted but I didn’t care because he was my dad. Just because he was in a wheelchair and couldn’t walk with ease didn’t mean he was any less of a father or i loved him any less. It just meant did things in a different way. He unfortunately passed away when I was nine ( nothing to do with his CP) but those nine years have left me with so many epic tales and have taught me just because you can’t do something the same way as other people doesn’t mean you can’t do it at all.
Alex Smith reading this just made me smile so much, I’m a wheelie mum and although the boys are used to it and like the chair (and stealing it to play taxis😅) I do worry about them and how they really feel deep down... and as a wheelchair parent- it doesn’t sound bad, we love letting our kids do all that and enjoy the perks... other parents have other perks, we have seating, cue jumping etc 😂 it’s little things like that that make me hope it makes it a little easier on them too... also at my youngest kids pre-school I let the kids push me and investigate the chair and showed them how I turn and do wheelies etc - they loved it, that’s 10 extra kids who think wheelchairs are great ☺️☺️ - Sorry to hear about your dad’s passing but please know all those little things made his entire life the absolute best ☺️ stay safe and much love.
My dad was in a wheelchair my whole life, and he was amazing, he did everything with us that a "normal" dad did. Life can be amazing if you make it that way!!!!
I really needed to see this. My old man is a wheelchair user. He got hurt when I was 9, and just spent the rest of my childhood hiding away from the world. Now here's the messed up part. He was a physically abusive asshole before the chair, and afterwards he became worse. He projected all of his insecurities onto everyone else, and physically lashed out at anyone who called him on his bs. Justifying never coming to any events of mine because he "didn't want my friends to make fun of me". And sadly because nearly every form of "corporal punishment" is legal in my state, and because of his actions, I'm more likely than not going to need some form of mobility aid in my future. I haven't spoken to him in YEARS, and I don't plan on reconciling any time soon. But one thing is for certain. When, not if, when I get my chair, I'm going to make the most of my life. I'm not going to hide. I'm not going to be like him. Using a chair is going to be the only thing we'll have in common, and the only "Like father, like daughter" moment I'd tolerate. The chair isn't your hindrance, it's your gateway back to freedom. Treat it as such.
I hate to hear you’ve had a bad experience with your dad but happy to hear you have decided to be nothing like him. I’m the same with my dad, he’s the perfect example of what not to do 🙏🏻
Please don't dwell on the past, you are you and with your knowledge you know what you will not do or become. If you dwell on the past you only will be the one to suffer, your guts will get in a knot just thinking about it. Be happy and think good thoughts about yourself and your future, then it will be a good future. I know it is corny but it is true. Keep watching Richard he is living proof of finally being able to think positively. Keep safe RMS
@@iride103 I'm in a much better place now than what I was years ago. My mom's side of my family has been super supportive throughout everything. The last hurdle is sorting through the medical side of things, but we're taking it as it comes. :)
im a wheelie mamma - 3 boys and 1yr of chair life. id never want to go back to my old life- i love my chair and my boys, at first my boys were embarrassed and struggled but i told them my wheels are just my new legs because my own legs dont work but because i have my "new legs" i can come outside and play with and even carry them again... just wish i had an accessible home with a ramp... i have an off road wheelchair for daily living so i can go anywhere and do everything with my boys.. WHEELIE PARENTS FTW
This is super encouraging to read and even more encouraging for other women to read about how they can be a good mom. Thanks for sharing this with us ❤️
Wait, That's Pete from Shepard Center!! Man, he is awesome. Pete counseled and talked to me many times there. His calm and cool voice got me through a very scary time. A time I wished I would have just died. A time I thought everything I knew was over. Pete has a heart of gold. Not sure he will see this but, Thank you Pete for being there. Your words sank in. Because of you I pulled up my big boy pants up and doing well today. God Bless.
My wife and I are both in chairs. We raised our own kids, helped with our grandkids ( we often had them more than their parents) and now we are helping our granddaughter with our great-granddaughter. So yea, people in chairs can be good parents. We have also seen cases where children were removed from homes where the mother was in a chair so I recommend you don’t let state or county agencies get involved if possible.
To anyone in a wheelchair or with a disability I say- a good or bad parent isn’t to do with how able bodied you are. What makes a good parent is loving them, supporting them and building happy memories with them including spending time with them. This can be playing games, taking them to the park, crafting with them, sitting down and talking telling stories. Just because you cannot do things that others can doesn’t make you bad- there are plenty of people that can not afford to do many things and still make loving parents. So believe in yourself.
True, Emily Cheetham. My daughters mention often how much they enjoyed having me read almost all of Mark Twain's books aloud to them during my paralysis and recovery. (I have the right accent because I'm a southern gal.)
Nona Hammon glad you agree. Many percent able bodied or not think they are bad parents because they cannot afford or aren’t able to do certain things or expensive things or they think they need to say go on expensive holidays or pay for expensive days out to be good parents. It’s sad that many forget it can be the little things that can make just as good memories.
This was a great firsthand look at it being 100% possible for a guy or girl wheelchair user to be fantastic parents, if you have the right mindset. The kids were definitely having a good time getting pulled around on their wagon.
Just gonna leave my comment open as I watch this: 1. Amazing tattoos working in the injury and scars. 2. My kids love helping me, whether that's with moving, medicine or just hanging out. 3. Props on calling the manufacturer for modifications; always ask, only 50/50 of no. If you don't ask, always 100% chance of no. 4. Wagons are the best, for any parent. 5. If you don't frighten your neighbors with your awkward positions, are you a good neighbor? 6. That towing wagon must come in clutch on Halloween... "just dump your bags in the wagon kids, we're filling it up. They'll give you more if they think you haven't gotten any yet!" 7. Yeah, this whole video is pretty much just wisdom.
I get it.... But i'm scared too death too have a kid, my injury isn't anything like yours i can't speak &only have limited use of 1 hand due to a stroke at age 12
That fear is normal. This is all new to us! But don’t forget there are ways to make things happen. I know a dad that is a quad on a sip and puff who can’t even use his hands and he’s a great dad 👊🏻
My dad had MS and was very disabled throughout my life. But we found ways to cope and had a close and father-daughter relationship, and it was that relationship that mattered. We found other things to do - we shared a love of music, films, concerts. We visited wheelchair accessible places and made memories just like any other family. Look at Stephen Hawking who parented 3 kids despite an enormous disability. Humans have an amazing ability to adapt. As long as you can keep a positive mindset, you’ll do great!
Awestruck! I have a cousin that is paraplegic and he has a happy, successful marriage, a child and raised his sisters 2 kids and a productive career. He is an amazing man as both of you are.
Amazing the way this dad adapt things to turn the life easier! I'm a dad too, I had my twins I was in a wheelchair for 9 years and I was 42 years old. It's not a easy decision, but we can do unthinkable things when there is a need to adapt, when it is for the children, we do the impossible! Regards from Brazil!
I do have a difficult time since I have not been able to walk for 4 or 5 years at 56 I’m 61 now just turned 61 I just got a power wheelchair so hopefully I’ll try and get out more this summer. I just have a hard time because everything is difficult and I deal with a lot of pain. Keep your videos coming they give me a lot of encouragement.
I’m not even paralyzed but I love this video just like the rest of your videos. It’s not only for people in a wheelchair people that walk can get a lot from these videos also.
Caitlin mows the lawn while I whip it up in the kitchen. All day baby! And love the video and it's perfect timing just in time for Father's Day. Good work brother
Awesome video! I am a woman hoping to be a mom one day. This video gives me more confidence i will be good at it. My partner is very inventive and always willing to figure out how to help me do things. This video gave us some great ideas.
And with such a thing called a tractor, and there being many different styled tractors, a man who is partially paralyzed can still contribute to those manly tasks such as mowing or weed whacking. But as you state, you find you, you adapt as you age and as your needs change. You will find your balance. I was a teenager thrown into figuring out life in a manual wheelchair for 9 weeks, and was going to high school and bussing to a trade school, moving all over the place. I found ways to use things around me and do things to get around myself. With my book bag and my purse backpack, I still managed to push myself around, on my own, as my mother was already handicapped and I didn’t want her to have to care for me anymore than necessary. You figure things out and you make the best of the situation. Thank you for spreading positivity. I know I don’t comment much, but your channel always lifts me up when I’m down, and even before I always strived to have a helping heart, and to offer assistance, or to be kind, because sometimes someone just needs that, but also to encourage, to say that they seem to have gotten the hang of that parenting role, sometimes words speak volumes bigger than you think.
As someone who has a disability its great seeing things like this. I have friends that I grew up with starting families and one day I don't want to be any different. I really enjoy seeing what is out there for me and it keeps my hopes up.
What a awesome video! Being a disabled Dad is by far one of my biggest challenges. Of course mine are visual issues but they are issues nine the same. This is really great to see how folks adapt and overcome. Truly inspiring!
wHAT A GREAT VIDEO, LEAVE IT TO RICHARD TO COVER EVERYONE'S CHALLENGE. I AM 86 YEAR OLD WOMAN, BUT HAPPY THAT I CLICKED ON THIS ONE SO THAT IF I DO MEET ANYONE IN THIS SITUATION I CAN STEER THEM TO RICHARD'S GREAT VIDEO TO HELP A DAD WITH BEING A FATHER WITH SPINAL OR DISABILITY PROBLEMS. WONDERFUL AS USUAL. WHERE DOES RICHARD GET HIS ENTHUSIASM, WILL, ENERGY, VITALITY? I KNOW WHERE, FROM HIS HEART AND SOUL. WE NEED MORE PEOPLE LIKE HIM ON THIS EARTH, MAYBE IT IS YOU - BRAVO RICHARD FROM RITA SIMONE
Amazing work guys, Pete is an absolute inspiration, seeing him confidently smash parenting from a wheelchair got me in the feels big time. Something I've been insecure about since my injury, and still am, even after watching this video, but this helped. A lot. Thank you so much for this video. ❤️
Dude I’ve felt same way. The possibility of having children is super intimidating not gunna lie. But spending time with Pete really eased some of my worries 🙏🏻
My dad was diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS when I 7 years old, and became a wheelchair user by the time I was 10 or 11. Unfortunately he never was able to see the wheelchair as a tool, only as a symbol of what he no longer could do. Fast forward to 2016, when I was 47yo and diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting MS. My first "real" exacerbation was masked by the fact that I already had herniated and slipped discs which intermittently caused numbness and weakness in my legs when they were more protruding. By the time I was accurately diagnosed significant damage had been done to my spinal cord. I am now an ambulatory wheelchair user. One of the things I miss most is being able to hike with our 3 kids (now 13, 15, and 19), and camping with my Girl Scout troop. When I win Powerball I am definitely getting an off road power chair! Also, Gemma Hubbard of "Wheelnoheels" is a SCI mom and she's done videos of how she adapts things to work for her too =).
LOVE THIS!! I'm working on a similar video describing why disability discrimination in parenting is so obnoxious. Thanks for being a voice in this community!!! 💜
Ring slings are great for wearing the baby or for adjusting to use as a seatbelt around your torso and your baby's torso while they sit on your lap, too.
@@Wheels2Walking, they're great if you're going to the zoo (or the like) with someone with a kid who's about 8 mos to 3 1/2, too. Lets you be more involved with the niblings or the friends' kids, means a Full On Stroller (clunky!) isn't needed (or can be repurposed as a shopping cart/food hauling device). Paralyzed Living here on RUclips has some good stuff for folks with higher level injuries (I think he's T2 complete?), including some of his gadgets for carrying brand-new-baby.
I am not in a wheelchair. I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome which means my joints are unstable and prone to dislocating. When my roommate had a baby, I used a moby wrap when I was holding the baby. That way most of the baby’s weight was supported by the wrap rather than my hands and arms. And it just felt safer to have the wrap as back up in case my wrist dislocated while I was holding him. I knew even if that happened, he would not fall. But in reality, since he was born after my condition worsened and never knew me any other way, he adapted so fast. Before he could even talk, he knew to come to me where I was sitting and crawl up on my lap rather than put his hands up to be picked up like he would with his mom. Kids are very flexible and don’t judge.
Awesome video, Richard! I was injured over 2 years ago, and now I am a T8/9 complete. I actually met Pete while I did my therapy at the Shepard Center. Iv literally watched all your videos from the beginning, but this one is extra special to me since my wife and I recently got custody of a baby boy about 6 months ago. I love being a dad, but it can be very challenging at times. The bigger the little man gets, the harder it is to figure out how to transfer him lol thanks for the video! Looking forward to more!
The video is the best!!!! Pete is awesome, he has some true words of wisdom. Helped me out a lot when I was at Shepherd. True inspiration, awesome ideas Pete. I got a 3 & 5 year old that I seem to do the best I can with but I see now I’m slacking lol
I use crutches most of the time, and sometimes a wheelchair (I’m in a place that’s not accessible so I can’t use the chair as much as needed). But my baby sister adores me and will sometimes pretend she has crutches 😂. Because I use them and I’m super cool so she wants to! We all think it’s adorable, and I don’t mind it because it helps encourage not seeing them as a bad thing.
I grew up with my double leg amputeed grandfather. I loved his chair. So much chrome you could use it as a mirror, and he took the thing apart and cleaned it at least once a week. When I was younger I would stand on his foot rests, when he didn't wear his legs that is. Or on his legs when he wore them. He was always annoyed that the new legs were ten cm shorter than his original ones, but as far as he explained it leg prosthetics in the 1980s were a bit of a problem for nearly 2m tall guys.
I use an electric wheelchair. When my girls were younger they used to fight over who's turn it was to sit on my lap when we were out ;-) Children take anything as 'normal'. Just be straight with them and happily answer any questions they ask. I did have lots of help when they were small but once they can dress themselves and are out of diapers, they get used to being more independent than maybe other children and are proud to do things by themselves. The dad in this video is right - your children will copy your attitude and if you're living not just existing, they too will be fine. We've also adapted various things as needed in the house. It takes a lot of research and effort to work out how to do it for your own unique needs and it is so satisfying when you accomplish something that doesn't exist on the market.
A GREAT video, Richard! Now that's what I call "content". Useful, bro. I was fortunate to have older children during the time I had to use a wheelchair, so they could help me, and also fortunate to have the kind of spinal injury that a determined person can recover from with a whole lot of excellent physical therapy. My 2 girls barely remember those times, except to say they really enjoyed having so much of my attention without a lot of other (social, mostly) stuff distracting. Carry on. You're on the right track now. Y'all will be ready for a kid before you know it.
I started to not watch this one because I’m 58 and have no kids, but I’m glad that I did. Great video! The SegWay (however you spell it) is pretty cool. I’m a T-4 spinal cord injury with damage to L1 & L2, so something without a back is definitely out for me, but I still run around with a low back, 10”, and it forces me to not get too lazy with what little core I have. Shooting helps a lot as well, as it’s not always easy to hold a gun out from your body, pistol or rifle. But this video in a way pushes the limits, always great to see someone doing that.
Yeah the no back situation wouldn’t even be something I’d want to do! But like he said “I made this one for me and not for you” lol. Shooting sounds like a great way to keep your core strong. Good idea!
I love these ideas. I have only been using a wheelchair on a regular bases over the past 6 months to a year My daughters are 16 years old and 21 years old so well beyond the being dependent on mama all the time. So I never had to experience trying to care for them when using a wheelchair . However I lost 85% of my left hand(I’m a leftie) when my oldest was 9 months old. I had to learn to do everything differently than before on top of learning to be a first time mama. But I have a 3 year old niece I’ve babysat and she is a little fireball. These are tips I can absolutely learn from and put into practice when taking care of her.
Thanks for the vid, and "props" to all parents. I lost my ability to walk in 2014 and had one son in middle school, and another in elementary school. (See profile pic) Like Pete said, “your attitude is everything to your kids”. I think the biggest thing that I have learned is that my boys are great servants. They want to help me. We have learned to cook meals, how to fix bikes, gone accessible adventures and just learned to adapt together. “Love” is a big thing, and “being there” was made easier with my disability.
I stand on The Hub’s rear caster forks, especially in crowds and urban areas, so we take up less space and I can be more situationally aware. It weirds people out. We try to educate between our chuckles. It’s so fun. And simple. As discussed, be the best purple you can purple.
Nice video! Lots of familiar things in there. I used to put my kids riding on my thigh too but with a little extra safety lifting the other ankle up over the knee. And diapers I usually changed at the floor. My legs work somehow cause my injury level is L1, so moving to the floor is no big deal. Your kid standing on the bar behind you was a new trick! Too bad my youngest is already 7 :( If your kids like to ride your chair by them selves remember to put the safety caster on! My first kid climbed to my chair while the safety was off and stood up on the seat. Chair flipped back to the floor and my daughter had a concussion! Dangerous!
former forklift driver here, still fully mobile... when the little ones are standing on the crossbar of your chair, the center of gravity changes - if there's no 'wheelie bar' protruding to the back, bad things will happen sooner or later...
These videos are so helpful your disabled people uncertain of the new techniques to caring for a child. Having to ask ourselves "will I be a good parent?" really sucks. Being a good parent is about creativity, flexibility, listening, and love, not about being able to run up a hill. Shame on the people who question our ability to parent and believe a disability makes us helpless, too helpless to help a child.
Ayyyyyye I Kno Pete!!! He was my peer support at Shepard center ATL back in 2013. Damn good guy!! If only he knew how much he and his friends at Shepard do for the new ones to the game!!
Which manufacturer did Pete contact to adapt his Segway? He mentions it at 3:36. Can someone please provide me the website of this manufacturer? Thanks so much.
For people who doesn't have physical disadvantage of your degree. I think it's important to think that because you guys can work with this, and live a good life in a wheelchair. Don't think, "I should be more happy/content". Instead think, "I can be more happy/content". Think the CAN. NOT the SHOULD. should can easily get you very down and feel bad because you feel bad. Don't think that.
I am a dad too but my wheels didn't grow until my sons were teenagers but as we know it's all dooable. Your channel is, as previously said, life affirming.
I like to think so, I have 3 kids and I don't think they resent my disability. I do sometimes feel like I could give them more if I was able bodied. They have great family support from others who often will help with things I just can't manage. I think it hurts me more than them when Iet them down because I can't do everything.
My son told me was asked by a school admin, if it is really difficult for him since his Mom is disabled. He said, No, why would it be? I have the greatest kid!
Great video and great Dad. Thanks for the inspiration. I'm a high functional quadriplegic and I have a 14yo girl and 9yo boy/girl twins. The balance act with my wife of 20 year is more on her side but I try. I did a video this week of my twins and me hiking with my 4x4 at the nature center.
That Segway and trailer is ace that’s one thing I wished I could do is attatch our bike trailer to my Manuel chair with the smart drive so that when the weather is really bad the baby can stay dry we use a sling but being able to use the trailer would be ace it fits my powerchair but the power chair is so cumbersome
Bumpin up and down in my little red wagon, Bumpin up and down in my little red wagon, Bumpin up and down in my little red wagon.... I don’t know the last line 🤣
It really depends on the individual. My mother has been a quad my entire life. She is a shrewd woman that would take advantage of others and will cry in public to get what she wants. Literally Karen in a chair. As an adult I try to amend our relationship but she will bully me and bring up disturbing subjects just to get a kick out of me (I'm a shy introvert type). Growing up I wanted a "mother", someone to talk to , listen and be there for me. But what problems could I have...I can walk..
Great Video! Would love more info on how he modified his segway. Can he go over uneven surfaces with it such as on a hiking trail? Thanks for making these vids!
"so that you can become good at being you"... wow that's powerful, I never thought about that
For real. Pete has an incredible way with words that is so moving. You learn so much just by being around him 🙏🏻
As someone who’s dad was in a wheelchair I can definitely confirm that just because someone may have a disability or may not be able to walk it doesn’t mean that they can’t be a good parent. Yes my dad found it tricky sometimes and it upset him that he couldn’t always do things how other parents did them but it didn’t stop him loving being a dad. I actually loved having a disabled parent from a very young age. It meant that we got to cue jump when we went to amusement parks or we didn’t have to cue for a taxi or when we went to gigs or festivals I alway had a seat if I got tired. And when I was like 2/3 I didn’t use a buggy I just sat on his lap and say “wheelchair pooster coming though “ (I couldn’t say user till I was five) .Now I know that may sound bad and that I took advantage of his disability but I did it was just the added perks of having him as a dad and he actually loved that I liked them. Yes people did bully me and make fun of me and always always asked if I was adopted but I didn’t care because he was my dad. Just because he was in a wheelchair and couldn’t walk with ease didn’t mean he was any less of a father or i loved him any less. It just meant did things in a different way. He unfortunately passed away when I was nine ( nothing to do with his CP) but those nine years have left me with so many epic tales and have taught me just because you can’t do something the same way as other people doesn’t mean you can’t do it at all.
I’m sorry for the loss of your father. My mother has Cp as well but she wasn’t as cool as your dad was.
Alex Smith reading this just made me smile so much, I’m a wheelie mum and although the boys are used to it and like the chair (and stealing it to play taxis😅) I do worry about them and how they really feel deep down... and as a wheelchair parent- it doesn’t sound bad, we love letting our kids do all that and enjoy the perks... other parents have other perks, we have seating, cue jumping etc 😂 it’s little things like that that make me hope it makes it a little easier on them too... also at my youngest kids pre-school I let the kids push me and investigate the chair and showed them how I turn and do wheelies etc - they loved it, that’s 10 extra kids who think wheelchairs are great ☺️☺️ - Sorry to hear about your dad’s passing but please know all those little things made his entire life the absolute best ☺️ stay safe and much love.
My dad was in a wheelchair my whole life, and he was amazing, he did everything with us that a "normal" dad did. Life can be amazing if you make it that way!!!!
That’s so great to hear! Thank you for sharing this perspective. I think a lot of wheel dads will be relieved to read this 😁
I rewatched his “scoop the baby!” Part like 3 times because it was just so cute. He’s so dad. It’s precious.
Quite literally the most adorable and precious moment 🥰
I really needed to see this. My old man is a wheelchair user. He got hurt when I was 9, and just spent the rest of my childhood hiding away from the world. Now here's the messed up part. He was a physically abusive asshole before the chair, and afterwards he became worse. He projected all of his insecurities onto everyone else, and physically lashed out at anyone who called him on his bs. Justifying never coming to any events of mine because he "didn't want my friends to make fun of me". And sadly because nearly every form of "corporal punishment" is legal in my state, and because of his actions, I'm more likely than not going to need some form of mobility aid in my future. I haven't spoken to him in YEARS, and I don't plan on reconciling any time soon.
But one thing is for certain. When, not if, when I get my chair, I'm going to make the most of my life. I'm not going to hide. I'm not going to be like him. Using a chair is going to be the only thing we'll have in common, and the only "Like father, like daughter" moment I'd tolerate. The chair isn't your hindrance, it's your gateway back to freedom. Treat it as such.
Senail, Do what you say, and be a bigger person than your father.
I hate to hear you’ve had a bad experience with your dad but happy to hear you have decided to be nothing like him. I’m the same with my dad, he’s the perfect example of what not to do 🙏🏻
Please don't dwell on the past, you are you and with your knowledge you know what you will not do or become. If you dwell on the past you only will be the one to suffer, your guts will get in a knot just thinking about it. Be happy and think good thoughts about yourself and your future, then it will be a good future. I know it is corny but it is true. Keep watching Richard he is living proof of finally being able to think positively. Keep safe RMS
@@iride103 I'm in a much better place now than what I was years ago. My mom's side of my family has been super supportive throughout everything. The last hurdle is sorting through the medical side of things, but we're taking it as it comes. :)
breaking generational curses, yeah! ✊🏽
im a wheelie mamma - 3 boys and 1yr of chair life. id never want to go back to my old life- i love my chair and my boys, at first my boys were embarrassed and struggled but i told them my wheels are just my new legs because my own legs dont work but because i have my "new legs" i can come outside and play with and even carry them again... just wish i had an accessible home with a ramp... i have an off road wheelchair for daily living so i can go anywhere and do everything with my boys.. WHEELIE PARENTS FTW
This is super encouraging to read and even more encouraging for other women to read about how they can be a good mom. Thanks for sharing this with us ❤️
I'm a wheelie mama, too. I had the chair first.
Wait, That's Pete from Shepard Center!! Man, he is awesome. Pete counseled and talked to me many times there. His calm and cool voice got me through a very scary time. A time I wished I would have just died. A time I thought everything I knew was over. Pete has a heart of gold.
Not sure he will see this but, Thank you Pete for being there. Your words sank in. Because of you I pulled up my big boy pants up and doing well today. God Bless.
My wife and I are both in chairs. We raised our own kids, helped with our grandkids ( we often had them more than their parents) and now we are helping our granddaughter with our great-granddaughter. So yea, people in chairs can be good parents. We have also seen cases where children were removed from homes where the mother was in a chair so I recommend you don’t let state or county agencies get involved if possible.
I love his tattoos! They are so cool!
To anyone in a wheelchair or with a disability I say- a good or bad parent isn’t to do with how able bodied you are. What makes a good parent is loving them, supporting them and building happy memories with them including spending time with them. This can be playing games, taking them to the park, crafting with them, sitting down and talking telling stories. Just because you cannot do things that others can doesn’t make you bad- there are plenty of people that can not afford to do many things and still make loving parents. So believe in yourself.
True, Emily Cheetham. My daughters mention often how much they enjoyed having me read almost all of Mark Twain's books aloud to them during my paralysis and recovery. (I have the right accent because I'm a southern gal.)
Nona Hammon glad you agree. Many percent able bodied or not think they are bad parents because they cannot afford or aren’t able to do certain things or expensive things or they think they need to say go on expensive holidays or pay for expensive days out to be good parents. It’s sad that many forget it can be the little things that can make just as good memories.
This was a great firsthand look at it being 100% possible for a guy or girl wheelchair user to be fantastic parents, if you have the right mindset. The kids were definitely having a good time getting pulled around on their wagon.
It was really nice to see his parenting firsthand. I’m far less worried about being a parent in the future 👊🏻
And your guest's kids seemed to have had fun with you there to @@Wheels2Walking
Great video!!
I'm 35 years old married 15 years and t5 complete with 4 boys and really connect to everything in this video
That’s awesome to hear! Good to know there are a lot of great dads out there. This comment section has been full of them 🙏🏻
I was injured 6 months ago and this is the most helpful thing I’ve found since. Thank you.
For me as a child of a dad with only one arm, I am safe to say that it doesn’t matter what your dad can and cannot do it, the love matters
Just gonna leave my comment open as I watch this:
1. Amazing tattoos working in the injury and scars.
2. My kids love helping me, whether that's with moving, medicine or just hanging out.
3. Props on calling the manufacturer for modifications; always ask, only 50/50 of no. If you don't ask, always 100% chance of no.
4. Wagons are the best, for any parent.
5. If you don't frighten your neighbors with your awkward positions, are you a good neighbor?
6. That towing wagon must come in clutch on Halloween... "just dump your bags in the wagon kids, we're filling it up. They'll give you more if they think you haven't gotten any yet!"
7. Yeah, this whole video is pretty much just wisdom.
I get it.... But i'm scared too death too have a kid, my injury isn't anything like yours i can't speak &only have limited use of 1 hand due to a stroke at age 12
I’m so sorry that must be awful
That fear is normal. This is all new to us! But don’t forget there are ways to make things happen. I know a dad that is a quad on a sip and puff who can’t even use his hands and he’s a great dad 👊🏻
My dad had MS and was very disabled throughout my life. But we found ways to cope and had a close and father-daughter relationship, and it was that relationship that mattered. We found other things to do - we shared a love of music, films, concerts. We visited wheelchair accessible places and made memories just like any other family. Look at Stephen Hawking who parented 3 kids despite an enormous disability. Humans have an amazing ability to adapt. As long as you can keep a positive mindset, you’ll do great!
Age 12?
Damn, that must’ve been scary for you.
I feel concerned.
I hope you recover as much as you can.
Awestruck! I have a cousin that is paraplegic and he has a happy, successful marriage, a child and raised his sisters 2 kids and a productive career. He is an amazing man as both of you are.
This is sooooo heartwarming and amazing
I'm beyond happy watching this video. You both have given me the greatest hope since my injury! I'm so glad you to hear you guys talk.
I’m so happy you’re here watching and that these videos fill you with hope!
That segway chair is AWESOME. Also, you rule as a dad!
Amazing the way this dad adapt things to turn the life easier! I'm a dad too, I had my twins I was in a wheelchair for 9 years and I was 42 years old. It's not a easy decision, but we can do unthinkable things when there is a need to adapt, when it is for the children, we do the impossible! Regards from Brazil!
It’s incredible how inventive and ingenious we can be when we HAVE to find a solution. I always say wheelchair users are top tier problem solvers 💪🏻
I do have a difficult time since I have not been able to walk for 4 or 5 years at 56 I’m 61 now just turned 61 I just got a power wheelchair so hopefully I’ll try and get out more this summer. I just have a hard time because everything is difficult and I deal with a lot of pain. Keep your videos coming they give me a lot of encouragement.
I'm so glad I found this! My replacement powerchair is on a 6 MONTH BACKORDER! Thanks VA & PRIDE! I was just about ready to give up.
Sure that you can, you should link with Dan, he is a Fantastic Dad, husband and person!!sending hugs!!
I’m not even paralyzed but I love this video just like the rest of your videos. It’s not only for people in a wheelchair people that walk can get a lot from these videos also.
As a guy with a disability myself, I've really enjoyed this video, learnt so much. Thanks guys for your willingness to share this with us.
All thanks to Pete for sharing his experience with us! I learned a bunch too!
Oh, WOW! Such a cool dad and not limited by his accident. Just makes things to with his kids and wheelchair
Caitlin mows the lawn while I whip it up in the kitchen. All day baby! And love the video and it's perfect timing just in time for Father's Day. Good work brother
For real. Traditional roles work for some people but not for everyone! I’m all about finding what you’re good at and sticking with it 👊🏻
This man is cool af, I really like him and the way he‘s dealing with his injury!! He’s a great dad!!
Everyone can be a good parent no matter their disabilities, they just need a good heart💓
Awesome video! I am a woman hoping to be a mom one day. This video gives me more confidence i will be good at it. My partner is very inventive and always willing to figure out how to help me do things. This video gave us some great ideas.
Thanks Michelle! I believe we as wheelchair users are super innovative and have the ability to be good at anything if we put our mind to it 👊🏻
And with such a thing called a tractor, and there being many different styled tractors, a man who is partially paralyzed can still contribute to those manly tasks such as mowing or weed whacking. But as you state, you find you, you adapt as you age and as your needs change. You will find your balance. I was a teenager thrown into figuring out life in a manual wheelchair for 9 weeks, and was going to high school and bussing to a trade school, moving all over the place. I found ways to use things around me and do things to get around myself. With my book bag and my purse backpack, I still managed to push myself around, on my own, as my mother was already handicapped and I didn’t want her to have to care for me anymore than necessary. You figure things out and you make the best of the situation. Thank you for spreading positivity. I know I don’t comment much, but your channel always lifts me up when I’m down, and even before I always strived to have a helping heart, and to offer assistance, or to be kind, because sometimes someone just needs that, but also to encourage, to say that they seem to have gotten the hang of that parenting role, sometimes words speak volumes bigger than you think.
As someone who has a disability its great seeing things like this. I have friends that I grew up with starting families and one day I don't want to be any different. I really enjoy seeing what is out there for me and it keeps my hopes up.
What a awesome video! Being a disabled Dad is by far one of my biggest challenges. Of course mine are visual issues but they are issues nine the same. This is really great to see how folks adapt and overcome. Truly inspiring!
He has fantastic perspective and insight, what a great daddy too. Not every father is a daddy.
wHAT A GREAT VIDEO, LEAVE IT TO RICHARD TO COVER EVERYONE'S CHALLENGE. I AM 86 YEAR OLD WOMAN, BUT HAPPY THAT I CLICKED ON THIS ONE SO THAT IF I DO MEET ANYONE IN THIS SITUATION I CAN STEER THEM TO RICHARD'S GREAT VIDEO TO HELP A DAD WITH BEING A FATHER WITH SPINAL OR DISABILITY PROBLEMS. WONDERFUL AS USUAL. WHERE DOES RICHARD GET HIS ENTHUSIASM, WILL, ENERGY, VITALITY? I KNOW WHERE, FROM HIS HEART AND SOUL. WE NEED MORE PEOPLE LIKE HIM ON THIS EARTH, MAYBE IT IS YOU - BRAVO RICHARD FROM RITA SIMONE
richard, you did it again, tears of joy dude, keep up the good work.
That brings so much joy to me heart! I’m so grateful you’re moved 🙏🏻
Amazing work guys, Pete is an absolute inspiration, seeing him confidently smash parenting from a wheelchair got me in the feels big time. Something I've been insecure about since my injury, and still am, even after watching this video, but this helped. A lot. Thank you so much for this video. ❤️
Dude I’ve felt same way. The possibility of having children is super intimidating not gunna lie. But spending time with Pete really eased some of my worries 🙏🏻
My dad was diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS when I 7 years old, and became a wheelchair user by the time I was 10 or 11. Unfortunately he never was able to see the wheelchair as a tool, only as a symbol of what he no longer could do. Fast forward to 2016, when I was 47yo and diagnosed with Relapsing Remitting MS. My first "real" exacerbation was masked by the fact that I already had herniated and slipped discs which intermittently caused numbness and weakness in my legs when they were more protruding. By the time I was accurately diagnosed significant damage had been done to my spinal cord. I am now an ambulatory wheelchair user. One of the things I miss most is being able to hike with our 3 kids (now 13, 15, and 19), and camping with my Girl Scout troop. When I win Powerball I am definitely getting an off road power chair!
Also, Gemma Hubbard of "Wheelnoheels" is a SCI mom and she's done videos of how she adapts things to work for her too =).
Great video. Good tips.
I really wanted to see Richard get out of the kids wagon.
Thanks Silke! It wasn’t the most graceful exit 🤣
I know Pete! He is the most awesome down to earth person I met after my injury!
LOVE THIS!! I'm working on a similar video describing why disability discrimination in parenting is so obnoxious. Thanks for being a voice in this community!!! 💜
Ring slings are great for wearing the baby or for adjusting to use as a seatbelt around your torso and your baby's torso while they sit on your lap, too.
If I ever become a dad I’ll have to check those out! Thanks for the recommendations 🙌🏻
@@Wheels2Walking, they're great if you're going to the zoo (or the like) with someone with a kid who's about 8 mos to 3 1/2, too. Lets you be more involved with the niblings or the friends' kids, means a Full On Stroller (clunky!) isn't needed (or can be repurposed as a shopping cart/food hauling device).
Paralyzed Living here on RUclips has some good stuff for folks with higher level injuries (I think he's T2 complete?), including some of his gadgets for carrying brand-new-baby.
I am not in a wheelchair. I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome which means my joints are unstable and prone to dislocating.
When my roommate had a baby, I used a moby wrap when I was holding the baby. That way most of the baby’s weight was supported by the wrap rather than my hands and arms. And it just felt safer to have the wrap as back up in case my wrist dislocated while I was holding him. I knew even if that happened, he would not fall.
But in reality, since he was born after my condition worsened and never knew me any other way, he adapted so fast. Before he could even talk, he knew to come to me where I was sitting and crawl up on my lap rather than put his hands up to be picked up like he would with his mom.
Kids are very flexible and don’t judge.
Awesome video, Richard! I was injured over 2 years ago, and now I am a T8/9 complete. I actually met Pete while I did my therapy at the Shepard Center. Iv literally watched all your videos from the beginning, but this one is extra special to me since my wife and I recently got custody of a baby boy about 6 months ago. I love being a dad, but it can be very challenging at times. The bigger the little man gets, the harder it is to figure out how to transfer him lol thanks for the video! Looking forward to more!
That makes me happy to hear 👊🏻 Pete is a really great guy! It’s amazing how we can adapt when the fire is to our feet.
Revisiting this video after a year I can confirm it still has incredible value. Evergreen content my dude!
The video is the best!!!! Pete is awesome, he has some true words of wisdom. Helped me out a lot when I was at Shepherd. True inspiration, awesome ideas Pete. I got a 3 & 5 year old that I seem to do the best I can with but I see now I’m slacking lol
Thanks Brandon! Pete really has a great way with words. I had a similar experience with him at Shepherd 👊🏻
I use crutches most of the time, and sometimes a wheelchair (I’m in a place that’s not accessible so I can’t use the chair as much as needed). But my baby sister adores me and will sometimes pretend she has crutches 😂. Because I use them and I’m super cool so she wants to! We all think it’s adorable, and I don’t mind it because it helps encourage not seeing them as a bad thing.
I grew up with my double leg amputeed grandfather. I loved his chair. So much chrome you could use it as a mirror, and he took the thing apart and cleaned it at least once a week. When I was younger I would stand on his foot rests, when he didn't wear his legs that is. Or on his legs when he wore them. He was always annoyed that the new legs were ten cm shorter than his original ones, but as far as he explained it leg prosthetics in the 1980s were a bit of a problem for nearly 2m tall guys.
I use an electric wheelchair. When my girls were younger they used to fight over who's turn it was to sit on my lap when we were out ;-) Children take anything as 'normal'. Just be straight with them and happily answer any questions they ask. I did have lots of help when they were small but once they can dress themselves and are out of diapers, they get used to being more independent than maybe other children and are proud to do things by themselves. The dad in this video is right - your children will copy your attitude and if you're living not just existing, they too will be fine. We've also adapted various things as needed in the house. It takes a lot of research and effort to work out how to do it for your own unique needs and it is so satisfying when you accomplish something that doesn't exist on the market.
That’s the cutest thing ever, kids really are so adaptable 🙏🏻.
A GREAT video, Richard! Now that's what I call "content". Useful, bro. I was fortunate to have older children during the time I had to use a wheelchair, so they could help me, and also fortunate to have the kind of spinal injury that a determined person can recover from with a whole lot of excellent physical therapy. My 2 girls barely remember those times, except to say they really enjoyed having so much of my attention without a lot of other (social, mostly) stuff distracting. Carry on. You're on the right track now. Y'all will be ready for a kid before you know it.
Thanks for your words of encouragement!
I started to not watch this one because I’m 58 and have no kids, but I’m glad that I did. Great video! The SegWay (however you spell it) is pretty cool. I’m a T-4 spinal cord injury with damage to L1 & L2, so something without a back is definitely out for me, but I still run around with a low back, 10”, and it forces me to not get too lazy with what little core I have. Shooting helps a lot as well, as it’s not always easy to hold a gun out from your body, pistol or rifle. But this video in a way pushes the limits, always great to see someone doing that.
Yeah the no back situation wouldn’t even be something I’d want to do! But like he said “I made this one for me and not for you” lol. Shooting sounds like a great way to keep your core strong. Good idea!
It's amazing how smart and inventive this guy is.
Very talented and wise man. Great video and thanks for sharing
This was so great to watch!!
I love these ideas. I have only been using a wheelchair on a regular bases over the past 6 months to a year My daughters are 16 years old and 21 years old so well beyond the being dependent on mama all the time. So I never had to experience trying to care for them when using a wheelchair . However I lost 85% of my left hand(I’m a leftie) when my oldest was 9 months old. I had to learn to do everything differently than before on top of learning to be a first time mama. But I have a 3 year old niece I’ve babysat and she is a little fireball. These are tips I can absolutely learn from and put into practice when taking care of her.
I have 3 children. My youngest is almost 4 months old, I never thought of using the baby carrier! Thank you so much !
Thanks for that helpful and positive video!
Who doesn't lov this guy ,,raise yr hands see know hands thanks brother .Leroy in oakland.
Wise words. Thanks so much.
Thanks for the vid, and "props" to all parents. I lost my ability to walk in 2014 and had one son in middle school, and another in elementary school. (See profile pic) Like Pete said, “your attitude is everything to your kids”. I think the biggest thing that I have learned is that my boys are great servants. They want to help me. We have learned to cook meals, how to fix bikes, gone accessible adventures and just learned to adapt together. “Love” is a big thing, and “being there” was made easier with my disability.
I love to hear about your relationship with your boys ❤️ thanks for sharing this with us 🙏🏻
I stand on The Hub’s rear caster forks, especially in crowds and urban areas, so we take up less space and I can be more situationally aware. It weirds people out. We try to educate between our chuckles. It’s so fun. And simple.
As discussed, be the best purple you can purple.
Very inspiring! Thank you.
Nice video! Lots of familiar things in there. I used to put my kids riding on my thigh too but with a little extra safety lifting the other ankle up over the knee. And diapers I usually changed at the floor. My legs work somehow cause my injury level is L1, so moving to the floor is no big deal.
Your kid standing on the bar behind you was a new trick! Too bad my youngest is already 7 :(
If your kids like to ride your chair by them selves remember to put the safety caster on! My first kid climbed to my chair while the safety was off and stood up on the seat. Chair flipped back to the floor and my daughter had a concussion! Dangerous!
Omg thanks for the warning!
former forklift driver here, still fully mobile... when the little ones are standing on the crossbar of your chair, the center of gravity changes - if there's no 'wheelie bar' protruding to the back, bad things will happen sooner or later...
Love this so much...his inventions are so ingenious. Great perspective too.
I’ve worked with Pete at shepherd center quite a bit. One of the greatest guys I’ve met
He’s an incredible human!
I met Pete at the shepherd center. Such an awesome guy!!
These videos are so helpful your disabled people uncertain of the new techniques to caring for a child. Having to ask ourselves "will I be a good parent?" really sucks. Being a good parent is about creativity, flexibility, listening, and love, not about being able to run up a hill. Shame on the people who question our ability to parent and believe a disability makes us helpless, too helpless to help a child.
This guy is awsome.. thanks for the video..
Ayyyyyye I Kno Pete!!! He was my peer support at Shepard center ATL back in 2013. Damn good guy!! If only he knew how much he and his friends at Shepard do for the new ones to the game!!
"Happy is Happy."😊❤🎉
bloody hell YES i'm a dad for 22 years and they still sit at papa's lap in the chair💖💖😁
That’s the cutest thing ever. I hope if I have kids they never stop sitting on my lap 🥰
Which manufacturer did Pete contact to adapt his Segway? He mentions it at 3:36. Can someone please provide me the website of this manufacturer? Thanks so much.
I think he called it “Seg Solutions”
For people who doesn't have physical disadvantage of your degree.
I think it's important to think that because you guys can work with this, and live a good life in a wheelchair.
Don't think, "I should be more happy/content".
Instead think, "I can be more happy/content".
Think the CAN.
NOT the SHOULD.
should can easily get you very down and feel bad because you feel bad. Don't think that.
Great perspective!
The guy is innovative, so inspiring
He really is 🙏🏻 I’m so grateful Pete is a positive role model in my life and the life of others 👊🏻
this is life affirming, another legend with wheels
So affirming. He’s such a great guy!
I am a dad too but my wheels didn't grow until my sons were teenagers but as we know it's all dooable.
Your channel is, as previously said, life affirming.
I like to think so, I have 3 kids and I don't think they resent my disability. I do sometimes feel like I could give them more if I was able bodied. They have great family support from others who often will help with things I just can't manage. I think it hurts me more than them when Iet them down because I can't do everything.
Love this Richard!!!! I would love to see this with a mom too 💕
Working on that! I agree, a mom video would also be really good!
That thing built onto the back of your chair is awesome!
Pete is one clever dude!
This was awesome!👏👏👏👏👏👏👨🏼🦼🧑🏻🦽
It really was! So encouraging 🙏🏻
My son told me was asked by a school admin, if it is really difficult for him since his Mom is disabled. He said, No, why would it be? I have the greatest kid!
thank you for this video. Pete is a really awesome
Thanks for watching! Pete’s great 🙌🏻
NOW thats fancy, they should call you Spongebob fancy pants.
These guys are awesome
Great video and great Dad. Thanks for the inspiration. I'm a high functional quadriplegic and I have a 14yo girl and 9yo boy/girl twins. The balance act with my wife of 20 year is more on her side but I try. I did a video this week of my twins and me hiking with my 4x4 at the nature center.
Wow that’s a lot to handle! It’s amazing what we can do if we put our mind to it. I’ll have to check out that video 👊🏻
That Segway and trailer is ace that’s one thing I wished I could do is attatch our bike trailer to my Manuel chair with the smart drive so that when the weather is really bad the baby can stay dry we use a sling but being able to use the trailer would be ace it fits my powerchair but the power chair is so cumbersome
Their is so many inspiring comments
Bumpin up and down in my little red wagon,
Bumpin up and down in my little red wagon,
Bumpin up and down in my little red wagon....
I don’t know the last line 🤣
No one is talking about the kids. Thay are so cute XD Also the showing the kids works in everything wheelchair or not.
They’re so cute for sure! We wanted to focus on the dading as much as possible and not get distracted by those cuties too much 😁
I love that they do cloth diapers that is great!
That’s awesome!
I have one, it put my dad in hospital. I’ve heard horror stories from a lot of people. Stay Safe 💖
Yikes!
I love love love this channel
I love this! Gives me hope that I can have a family one day and be a great mama :)
Read through the rest of the comments here! A few wheel moms have talked about their experience 👊🏻
It really depends on the individual. My mother has been a quad my entire life. She is a shrewd woman that would take advantage of others and will cry in public to get what she wants. Literally Karen in a chair. As an adult I try to amend our relationship but she will bully me and bring up disturbing subjects just to get a kick out of me (I'm a shy introvert type). Growing up I wanted a "mother", someone to talk to , listen and be there for me. But what problems could I have...I can walk..
Excellent video!
excellent tips didn't know it
Great Video! Would love more info on how he modified his segway. Can he go over uneven surfaces with it such as on a hiking trail? Thanks for making these vids!
A wheelchair dad that cloth diapers?!? Omg I though we were going to be the only ones ❤️❤️
I like the Beer wagon :)
Lmao great name for it 😂
You looked so unready for the nappy change 😂