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Enjoying Wheelchair-Accessible VAN Life!


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What an inspirational couple! When neurological issues forced Tanya to retire early, she started looking at #vanlife. Her husband, Derec, is in a wheelchair and didn’t think it would be possible to adjust to life on the road or get a vehicle that met his needs.

With the help of the VA, the couple got a wheelchair lift, a special driver’s seat, and hand controls for their van. They tow a bathroom cargo trailer behind the vehicle so Derec has plenty of space, and they lowered the bed inside the van for easier transfers. Now the couple is working on a foundation and grants for other people in wheelchairs wanting to get outside the “four walls” and experience nature. What do you think of their setup?

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Full-Time Van Travel with Disabilities

Enjoying Wheelchair-Accessible VAN life! 2

Images via Tiny Home Tours

Here’s Derec’s special adjustable chair.

Enjoying Wheelchair-Accessible VAN life! 3

Images via Tiny Home Tours

The wheelchair lift fits underneath the van, so it doesn’t take up room inside.

Enjoying Wheelchair-Accessible VAN life!

Images via Tiny Home Tours

VIDEO: Van Life with a Disability – DIY Ford Transit

Highlights:

  • Tanya was a nurse and all was well until health complications forced her to retire early
  • Derec was retired when they married and in a wheelchair
  • Tanya wanted #vanlife! Derec didn’t think they could do it
  • They did it!
  • He has a separate bathroom cargo area they pull behind
  • Lower bed for easier transfer
  • Service dog
  • Hand controls for the van
  • Bathroom inside the van

Learn more

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Natalie C. McKee

Natalie C. McKee is a contributor for Tiny House Talk and the Tiny House Newsletter. She's a wife, and mama of three little kids. She and her family are homesteaders with sheep, goats, chickens, ducks and quail on their happy little acre.
{ 2 comments… add one }
  • Linda K Howell
    May 3, 2022, 4:23 pm

    My Rv is good just to travel in maybe sleep in while on a short trip out of town.
    But to live in not for me . I do need more room than that. Like a living room, a bigger bedroom w closet.
    Then my kitchen and down the hall bathroom. Soo more space for me is needed.

  • Marsha Cowan
    May 3, 2022, 5:21 pm

    What an amazing love story! The van is so cool, but you guys are the coolest. Happy trails!

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