After years of trial and error, Brad Soden finally created a wheelchair that his wife, Liz, could be proud of. She was severely paralyzed in a car accident three months before their wedding, and she frequently lamented not being able to go on family vacations and camping trips.
But now that she had a new wheelchair, she could take part in the excitement. The joy on her face as she took part in activities with her children was priceless.
After seeing his wife sob over the difficulties of using a standard wheelchair, Brad Soden made the decision to take action. His wife needed a wheelchair, so he committed himself to create one that was more comfortable and user-friendly. After years of experimenting and failing, he finally succeeded in creating a wheelchair that met her requirements.
Brad was always motivated to make things right for Liz, even if it meant going further than Liz thought was possible. After she expressed her disappointment at not being included in the family’s outings, he came up with a solution. He bought her a camper van with a wheelchair lift so she could participate in the adventures while still having a good time.
Brad asserted that he is motivated when he can make his target cry happy tears. He wants to achieve this.
Brad, a plumber without a college degree or engineering experience, overcame many challenges to developing a wheelchair with treads resembling those on a tank that is robust enough to operate off-road and can handle rocky terrain. We started a couple of fires, but since we were close by, we were able to put them out right away, says Brad.
He created the wheelchair to navigate rocky terrain and steep inclines for people with mobility impairments who want to go outside and explore. Because it is not street legal, only Brad currently uses it for personal use.
The Tankchair was developed to give Liz the independence she desired. Brad soon made it his sole source of income.
Liz told Lauer that she was now able to go hiking and camping, something she had previously been unable to do. She used to have to sit in the car as they drove to the snow, but these days she can get out and run after her kids.
Because they are classified as recreational vehicles, tank chairs are not insured, but Brad plans to give them away for free to injured veterans.
The pricey chair that has a three-month waiting list for new ones and can move up to 30 miles per hour has become a popular choice for disabled soldiers. Veterans who have frequently used the chair say it has helped them regain their independence.
