Home » 2025 in Review: Stories That Inspired Us This Year

2025 in Review: Stories That Inspired Us This Year

Collage of people using wheelchairs in various settings—including with companions, pets, and a wheelchair van—showing everyday activities and moments both indoors and outdoors.

As we look back on 2025, we are inspired by the incredible people we met this year. Every client’s story reminds us why mobility matters. It’s not just about driving, it’s about living, exploring, connecting, and feeling confident out in the world.

Here are some of the moments that made this year special!

Kim & Steve Brown — Traveling With Confidence Again

A woman stands and smiles behind a man in a wheelchair, covered with a gray blanket and attached to a ventilator, as they enjoy time together in a restaurant after arriving in their wheelchair van.

Travel had become stressful for the Browns as ALS made planning harder. But this year, things changed. With an accessible van and support from our team, they were able to take a cruise, enjoy their time together with less worry. Their experience shows how the right mobility solution can open the door to new memories.

The Browns also shared how much easier simple outings became once they felt secure traveling again. Whether going to a favorite restaurant or visiting family, they were able to spend more time doing what they love without worrying about how to get there.

Tanya & Lee — A Love Story Without Limits

Two people smiling indoors, both wearing matching T-shirts that read I BATTLE MS WHATS YOUR SUPERPOWER with an orange ribbon graphic, pose proudly beside their accessible wheelchair van.

Tanya and Lee found each other through shared experiences with multiple sclerosis. Despite living in different states at first, they made it work, meeting halfway and supporting one another through everyday challenges. With their accessible van from MobilityWorks, they can travel comfortably together, bring along their scooters, and continue building a life full of adventures and simple joys.

The couple also emphasizes teamwork and patience. From doing chores around the house to hunting and traveling, Tanya and Lee approach life side by side, showing that with the right support and a reliable accessible vehicle, love and independence can thrive without limits.

Randall Pope — Rolling 200 Miles for a Cause

Two people travel on a winding road: one in a motorized wheelchair with a small flag, the other on a bicycle. Autumn trees and a car, possibly a wheelchair van, are in the background.

To mark 30 years living with MS, Randall completed a 200-mile power wheelchair ride from Virginia to the Pentagon. He raised money to help others access important mobility equipment. His accessible van helped him stay active and involved. Randall proved that one person’s determination can make a real difference.

Along the way, Randall met supporters who had followed his efforts for years. Many told him how his dedication encouraged them to stay active in their own lives. His ride was not only a fundraiser, it was a reminder of the strength found in community.

Eric LeGrand — Belief, Community, and Showing Up

Two photos side by side show a man in a wheelchair at an indoor event, posing with different people under aisle signs reading 1100—perhaps discussing accessibility or showcasing a new wheelchair van.

This year, we were proud to sponsor Eric LeGrand’s podcast, A Cup of bELieve. Eric’s message of positivity and forward momentum continues to encourage people everywhere.

One of our favorite moments of 2025 was meeting him at the New York Abilities Expo, where he spent time with attendees, shared stories and spread encouragement. His presence reflects our mission: everyone deserves the chance to live life without limits.

Eric’s impact goes far beyond the expo floor. Through his podcast and public speaking, he continues to uplift people facing hard moments and celebrates the wins—big and small—that keep us moving forward. Supporting his work has been an honor.

Garrett Goebel — A Truck Built for Independence

A person in a wheelchair holds a leash attached to a dog sitting on the open door frame of a parked wheelchair van.

Garrett made a big move by switching from a minivan to an accessible 2023 Silverado. With hand controls, a lift, and a crane system, he can load his wheelchair and drive on his own. Whether he’s heading out to hunt or explore nature, Garrett now has a vehicle that supports the way he wants to live.

Garrett also shared that having the right vehicle has changed his day-to-day routine. Instead of planning around other people’s schedules, he can head out whenever he wants. His truck gives him the flexibility to stay connected to the outdoors and the activities that mean the most to him.

Julia & Jessica Bonamassa — Two Vans, Two Paths to Freedom

Two women pose for selfies in front of greenery and Niagara Falls. In the second photo, they sit with mobility scooters, bags, and a wheelchair van nearby by the falls, with a tour boat visible in the background.

Twin sisters Julia and Jessica spent years sharing one accessible van. But now, each sister has her own. Now they can work, go to school, travel, and enjoy life without coordinating schedules. Their story shows how the right vehicle can give people more independence and confidence.

This change also gave them the ability to say “yes” more often—yes to weekend trips, yes to school events, and yes to moments that would have been harder to fit in before. With their own vans, they both have the freedom to move through life the way they choose.

Jamie Smith — From Concerts to Cross-Country Plans

Three adults pose by a wheelchair van with a deployed ramp; one person sits in a wheelchair while two stand beside the vehicle.

Jamie knew early on that the right driving controls could make all the difference. After trying equipment that didn’t feel right, he chose a joystick-operated set-up that worked perfectly with his wheelchair. Once his van was ready, he hit the road. Being able to drive on his own also helped Jamie work more hours, move out on his own, and buy a house. His message to others going through the process is simple: ask questions and make sure your setup fits you right.

Jamie also shared that having full control of his travel plans has changed his confidence. Now he’s planning more concerts, future trips, and time with friends. His setup didn’t just give him mobility—it gave him new opportunities to stay involved in the things he loves.

Sylvia Longmire — Traveling the World on Wheels

A person in a motorized wheelchair, having arrived in a wheelchair van, faces the ocean, watching the sunset over the water from a sandy beach.

This year, Sylvia continued exploring new places around the world. Living with MS hasn’t stopped her from traveling, thanks to her accessible vehicle. She continues to inspire others to see what is possible with the right support and tools.

Sylvia also provides tips and resources to help others travel with less stress. From hotel accessibility to airport navigation, she shares real experiences that help more people feel prepared and confident to explore new places.

Ali & Scarlett — A Team Built on Trust

A woman sits in a wheelchair lift seat extended from a red wheelchair van inside a building, demonstrating the vehicle’s accessibility features.

Ali’s accessible van, Scarlett, has become an important part of her daily life. With the right mobility equipment and reliable access, she can travel with confidence and stay connected to the people and places that matter most. Having a van she trusts allows her to focus on living fully instead of worrying about the logistics of getting around.

Ali shared that getting Scarlett has given her a sense of security and control as she plans her activities. Whether she’s continuing her advocacy work or meeting friends, she now has a vehicle that supports her needs and helps her stay active and independent.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we head into a new year, we’re more committed than ever to helping people live life on their terms. Thank you to everyone who trusted us this year. Your experiences inspire our work, and we can’t wait to support even more individuals and families in the year ahead.

Ready to Explore Your Mobility Options?

Whether you’re looking for your first accessible vehicle or want to find a solution that better fits your lifestyle, we’re here to help.

👉 Visit your local MobilityWorks or browse our vehicles online to get started today.