Jan's Story

My disability journey started in 2022 when after years of excellent health, an incurable but treatable blood cancer arrived on the scene. Myeloma, which I had never heard of is a type of blood cancer, it attacks the bones particularly the ribs and spine. So in 2022 I was presented with 3 fractured vertebrae and multiple rib lesions which put me in a wheel chair as far as mobility goes. Since then I've had Chemo, Custom body brace and a bone marrow transplant (stem cell).

Although retired now, I've had to give up a lot of things including my love of cycling, music entertainment and voluntary work. Only being able to stand for a few minutes (queuing is a definite struggle) and able to only walk short distances.

Now for the good news. Whilst shopping in supermarkets, I have found that supermarket trollies gave me a lot of relief on my permanent back pain, giving me support and being able to walk more upright.

This is where the byACRE Overland comes in ....

I had the idea of looking at rollators but vanity and looking / feeling disabled really put me off going that route. The common high street rollators just didn't do it for me.

Next step... Google search to see if there was anything, anywhere that existed that looked cool but functional and eureka!!!! The byACRE Overland. I wanted cool with the ability to cope with rough ground. The Overland was the perfect combination and the amazing piece of kit has given me the ability to walk further and in much more comfort, without spending the following day in bed with backache. It has adjustable handle heights and brakes so I can walk more upright rather than hunched and struggling and there's a seat built in if required when you need a break. It folds and unfolds in a flash too.

I pondered over the price but thanks to Assist Mobility, with VAT reduction and excellent customer service, I'm a happy bunny and in my opinion its money well spent.....

My only observation is that when on particularly stoney ground, the brake cables that are passed within the carbon frame, tend to rattle but on grass or pavement it is not noticeable.

Really pleased with my Overland.

Keen to learn more about Jan's Defender Green Overland?

About the Author

Jan Philip Richardson

Having worked in printing-related industries for the majority of my working life I changed direction and after qualifying, moved into the different careers including electrical, and adult teaching as well as volunteer career guidance. My passion in life has always been DJing having worked in nightclubs as well as numerous private events over the years. All that came to a grinding halt when Myeloma struck, leaving me unable to stand for any length of time or lift anything of weight. My other passion of cycling culminated in riding the London to Brighton Ride some years ago and joining a local cycling club but alas that’s off the cards now. With the support of my partner (she’s had to put up with so much over the last couple of years !) and a supportive family / friends and thanks to the rollator, I’ve developed a new ‘norm’ a plan ‘B’….