Spencer

We chose the Companion Q power assist device for our son because he has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a progressive condition that makes conserving energy and preserving muscle strength essential. The device helps reduce the physical effort required to propel his manual wheelchair, allowing him to save energy for the activities that matter most while avoiding unnecessary muscle overuse.

After trialing other types of Power assist add-on devices, we quickly realized having something that grows with our child, doesn't change his wheelchair dramatically, still allows for easy portability, and doesn't require the overuse of one side of his upper body were priorities.   When Cheelcare introduced the Companion Q design, we immediately knew this was the one!  The availability of provincial funding opportunities made it attainable for our family.

The Companion Q has given him greater independence, allowing him to keep up with his friends and go where he wants with confidence, both indoors and outdoors. It has been especially valuable for school field trips, community outings, and travel through airports and other large spaces. We also appreciate the flexibility it provides—he can choose between manual propulsion and power assist depending on the situation.

Another major benefit is how easy the device is to attach and remove, making it practical for everyday use and travel. As he grows, the Companion Q can continue to be used with larger wheelchair sizes, making it a long-term solution that adapts to his changing needs. Overall, it has helped improve his mobility, independence, and quality of life while supporting the unique needs of his condition.