The Wheelchair Derby and Fundraising Event recently held at Highlands Hammock State Park was a great success.  Thanks to the combined efforts of park staff, Gathering of Clubs-Motorcycle Riders and Enthusiasts, Friends of Highlands Hammock State Park, Friends of Florida State Parks, and others, over $10,000 was raised.

The bulk of this money was used to purchase a Nomad all-terrain power wheelchair from Extreme Mobility.  The chair is maneuvered with a joy stick that can be used from either the right or left armrest and is equipped with a cell phone charger and a GPS locator.   This chair opens up the parks miles of beautiful trails to almost anyone unable to walk. 

Paula Russo, who uses a mobility scooter, says, “This Nomad will get me to places in the park I had no hope of getting to before.  I can now join my family on a long hike or I can go out on my own for some peaceful solitude.  A whole new world has opened for me.”

Brian Pinson, manager of Highlands Hammock State Park, believes it is important that visitors with disabilities are able to enjoy as many features of the park as possible.  This certainly shows in his willingness to make this kind of mobility equipment available to those who need it.

Friends of Florida State Parks donated $1,500 towards the purchase of the Nomad.  Thanks and regards go to the Florida Region of the Aliner Owners Club who donated $800 of that figure. 

Friends of Florida State Parks also helped out with promoting the event.