As part of National Mobility Awareness Month in May, National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) and United Spinal Association have partnered to launch the Automotive Mobility Awareness Tour.

The tour aims to bring awareness to all the ways hospital administrators, case managers, occupational and physical therapists, automotive mobility dealers, and manufacturers are working to improve the lives of their clients.

The tour’s first stop was in Chicago at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab on May 1. Later stops will include San Diego, Houston, Atlanta, and West Orange, New Jersey.

“Our automotive mobility dealers across North America feature the latest innovations in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and equipment necessary to greatly increase independence,” says Danny Langfield, CEO, National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association, in a media release.

“We are looking forward to showcasing our local dealers and the future of mobility solutions across the country.”

At each event, new wheelchair-accessible vehicles available from dealers in the market will be on display. Other features unique to each event will include educational training sessions and an ice cream sundae bar.

In addition, United Spinal Association will be showcasing its efforts to assist the estimated 17,730 Americans who experience spinal cord trauma each year, according to the release.

“Our organization specializes in improving the lives of individuals after a spinal cord injury,” states James Weisman, President & CEO, United Spinal Association.

“We’re thankful for organizations like NMEDA and the local facilities to partner with us in bringing this information to the public.”

The tour stop details are as follows:

  • Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago May 1
  • Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego June 4
  • TIRR Kirby Glen Outpatient Facility, Houston June 5
  • TIRR Hospital, Houston June 6
  • Shepherd Center, Atlanta June 19
  • Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, New Jersey October 30

[Source(s): National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association, United Spinal Association]