#Wheelchairvanlife

Рет қаралды 40,685

Күн бұрын

The incredible story of a quadriplegic man who built the campervan of his dreams! And yes, it's fully wheelchair accessible with driving capabilities, transfer options, and more!
Loren takes us on a tour of his $160k handicap accessible sprinter van conversion. As a C56 quadriplegic, he wasn't going to let his disability get in the way of he and his wife's vanlife dream. He even built the entire van dwelling himself, with the help of another wheelchair bound friend. So this van was built by by the disabled, for the disabled, and will shine a new light on what is possible in tiny space design.
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CREDITS
PRODUCED & HOSTED BY:
Jenna Kausal
VIDEOGRAPHY BY:
Kirt & Jen of:
/ @overlanduncharted
EDITOR:
Marcia Trader
www.marciatrader.com
TITLE MUSIC:
Kate Steinway - "Tiny Home"
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ADDITIONAL MUSIC: www.epidemicsound.com/
OPENING MONTAGE DRONE SHOT: Jonathan Benabed
ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY OWNERS
________________________
0:00 Intro
1:02 Meet Loren & Karla
1:17 Customizing a sprinter van for accessibility
1:55 Build process
2:44 Total cost
3:28 Intention behind the van conversion
3:37 Wheelchair lift - getting into the van
4:37 Check out the inside!
4:43 Kitchen
5:47 Elevator bed
6:46 Making room for a hand bike
7:23 Room to move around inside
7:50 Hot water & heating
8:22 Interior design choices
9:53 Monitoring van systems
10:55 Moving about the van without the wheelchair
11:50 Where is the bathroom?
12:22 Living on the road with a dog
12:42 Disability modifications for driving the van
13:34 Exterior tour
14:08 A method for cleaning the wheelchair
15:00 Back of the van
15:25 Water system & utilities
16:38 Exterior tour continued...
17:05 Electrical system/solar
17:58 Reflecting on the build process
18:21 Why don't we see more handicap accessible vans?
19:21 Outro
#disabled #vanlife #wheelchairaccessible

Пікірлер: 165

@jesuskeepsmeeveryday7306 Жыл бұрын

As a quadriplegic this blesses my soul, always wanted to see something like this

@bonniestillwater56 Жыл бұрын

Way cool! This man is proof that we are only limited by the depths of our imagination and motivation. Very inspiring.

@trekfortruth2841 Жыл бұрын

Wow, what a cool couple! This gentleman's design and engineering is pure genius! I am a full-time nomad who deals with a severe chronic illness...I needed this inspiration today...cheers!

@jansmith3158 Жыл бұрын

Beautiful couple!! He's a incredible smart man to be able to come up with this van layout, modify the bed, build all the other electric mechanics and build it. And, what a wonderful friend he has to help him with this project. Happy trails to them 💙🌊💙👏

@Aleera616 Жыл бұрын

This is amazing!! I am 30 and not (yet) in a wheelchair but I have some health issues that will most likely get more severe with age. But even before I got those issues I always wanted to have a wheelchair accessible tiny home someday. All the loft climbing and tight spaces and tiny bathrooms are great when you are young and not disabled but if you are blessed with old age someday or become disabled in some way the tiny home dream can be over quite quickly. So I always had something accessible in mind but this is beyond my wildest dreams! So well thought out. Wish there were more videos about tiny living and traveling for people with disabilities because it gives me so many ideas lol. It's sad though that it's all so expensive and I am thankful for him to acknowledge that

@heatherhanna4492 Жыл бұрын

Wonderful!! So thankful to FINALLY see an example of someone with mobility issues making this work. ❤

@sueembler5572 Жыл бұрын

This was an INSPIRING story! The build is nothing short of GENIUS! AND his wife's a dream. This clip made me think of how these obstacles in life CAN be overcome! He's an inspiration to everyone. Disabled or not. What a test of determination to MAKE IT WORK! Loved this video!

@oomorei Жыл бұрын

I worked 40 yrs with people with disabilities. I’m ecstatic to see modifications like these that allows full experience of nomad living. Love it!! ❤❤😊😊

@wanderlust62 Жыл бұрын

I retired from a career teaching children, teens with an array of disabilities and coming alongside adults, as well. My experiences are the outcome of decades of modifications and designing for optimum accessibility. This van build is beyond brilliant!!! I am amazed, but not surprised! Enjoy all your travels!

@lisaclingingtochrist5295 Жыл бұрын

WOW, I'm so happy that you and your friend were able to build this so that it is accommodating to you and you can enjoy the life you love with your wife!! Great job!!

@yoon-tv9326 3 ай бұрын

We are grateful and good for the true challenges and love of people with disabilities.

@brentwalden6215 Жыл бұрын

This is a beautiful build! I hope this video builds enough traction to get builders on board. I really hope the people at Battle Born see that they really could use a couple more batteries to help them “Get out there, stay out there”.

@agrota21 Жыл бұрын

Great build. Great video. I’ve spent my life as an rv and mobility tech, working with some of the biggest and best companies like MobilityWorks. I think the answer to why big companies don’t get on board is it’s just too custom, and too labor intensive, which just puts the cost out of reach for most clients. I’ve done a few jobs over the years modifying doors on rvs, installing ceiling lifts, Superarms, roll in showers and Multi lifts. I couldn’t believe the amount of time and detail that was involved. Back when I was doing driver mods in vans, I learned that every millimeter in an installation made the difference in usability for many quads. Literally, everything was critical. Mass production just doesn’t lend itself to that type of work, let alone the lack of talent available in the work force these days. It is the most rewarding work I’ve ever done, but not always the most profitable. It’s a labor of love.

@2983edong 7 ай бұрын

Do you know where can I get a wheelchair lift just like the one here. That's exactly what I need since I don't like the traditional lift that eats up a lot of space inside the van.

@thewheelieguy 5 ай бұрын

@@2983edongIt's called a superarm, made by handicaps inc. Use your favorite search engine to find it.

@bee-anca236 Жыл бұрын

This is absolutely incredible!!! I’m also surprised they didn’t opt for a bigger rig. But it’s still stunning and I love that they made something that brings them joy 😊 and wow that is so true - I watch a lot of RV channels and they never mention anything about ADA accessible rigs options.

@camilleszalma4556 Жыл бұрын

I'm super pleased to see that someone has built a van with this kind of accessibility! In November of 2021 I pulled a ligament in my foot (or ankle) and had to fly to another country the next week. So I had to know that everywhere I went I'd be able to get around there. Since then I've been on the lookout for a setup like yours. You probably already noticed that there aren't many around. This video is actually pretty exciting!

@LizzyFerretOfficial 17 күн бұрын

As someone else with SCI I’m watching this in awe but also with that hardcore respect that comes from knowing so many other fabulous chair users who also prove that having a disability gives us expert level problem solving capabilities 👌🏽

@karenharvey2549 11 ай бұрын

My husband has been disabled since he had an accident many years ago, I would love to have an accessible vehicle like this. You have created some ingenious solutions. I’m happy that you can journey together. ❤

@nickywellman594 Жыл бұрын

Absolutely amazing, pure genius, most innovative design I’ve seen in the 5 years I’ve been watching here videos!!!

@GOLDVIOLINbowofdeath Жыл бұрын

I am not disabled but have been wondering about this sort of design. When I looked at the photos before watching the video, I already wondered how well this gantry system works when the van is leaning sideways because three points define a plane, two points define a line, and one point, which is what he has, doesn’t do much of anything, so I greatly appreciated his honesty about its limitations. After designing my versatile system using 80/20 Inc. extrusions for quick releasable attaching (and detaching) everything in my 144” Sprinter, I realized it might work very well for disabled people to get from the bed to the driver seat. Turns out it would work better than this Gantry system on unlevel ground conditions too. Having a B.S. degree in Architecture and some master degree courses in structural engineering comes in handy on van builds. Kudos to Laren on working out how to pack all that in a 144” Sprinter. It would be interesting to know what in this design would need to be changed if he were traveling alone.

@beverlywright1009 Жыл бұрын

Wow, this is incredible! Both my parents were hadicapped and loved to travel! They would have enjoyed this so much! In a way, by your contractor not working out, it was a blessing in disguise! It's totally custom made not only for you, but by you😊 Happy travels to you both always👍 Thanks for sharing this wonderful story.

@splashesin8 Жыл бұрын

My absolute favorite! 🎉I keep trying to figure out what all I need to do, and love the total sense of how this was done with all the reachability, and things I always wish were just as easy on the road, like the lift, water, and air. Even dogger can get showered and watered. 😊❤

@rickbilkey8726 Жыл бұрын

I love your channel. I'm not paralyzed but am an amputee (& dreamer) who requires a wheelchair for most things when not wearing my prosthesis. I love watching your skoolie vids, etc. & this one had answers to some of my mobility & access questions, inside & outside a vehicle. Very clever & interesting content here, thoroughly enjoyable!

@mysticalsouls 11 ай бұрын

My hubby is an amputee too, right above knee and we have been researching motor homes, this video is very inspiring

@tastluvone 11 ай бұрын

This is where I see brains working more than body functions. All I see is this person's cabilities. When you have love in a partner they are no limits in your ability to live your life happily. You make me proud to watch this vlog. My respect 🙌 100%. Life is not about, what you can't do. It is doing what you can, and be happy doing so.

@shirleyashanti3031 Жыл бұрын

Wowee. ❤ it all, especially getting from the front to his bed w/o the chair. Pure genius. Van manufacturers and/or conversion folks should use him as a consultant. What a lovely couple with a happy dog. Thoroughly enjoyed this masterclass. Thank you so much for sharing this and their beautiful spirit. ❤❤😊

@rosemarydoran9907 Жыл бұрын

This is so smartly done! And compared to Class B vans, $160K isnt unreasonable (of course there was a lot of sweat equity that wasnt included in the cost). These two could start a business as the travel trailer industry has completely ignored the disabled market (except for wheelchair lift I have seen on some very pricey Class A motorhomes ). Bonus points for considering the dog's needs as I would be traveling with my 3 miniature dachshunds and their needs are important to me.❤️ Would love to see an update once the bath is done. Thank you so much for sharing this!

@user-mo4ql6em2y 5 ай бұрын

Genius!!! From start to finish. I've been able to assist with skiers who use adaptive equipment and nothing has been more rewarding than the sense of freedom and joy I see in their souls. God bless your journeys!! and, if a way to bring this opportunity to more people opens up, I'm praying for the funds to open up as well.

@MelSavageNumber2 7 ай бұрын

Hey I’m also a C-5,C-6 I got injured when I was 18 I’m 29 now having a van like this is my dream to have an accessible van I could drive is everything to me that’s a beautiful van props to u and god bless thanks for the vid I needed this motivation I need to save up. Really don’t want to die before I accomplishment certain goals

@DisabledNomads 8 күн бұрын

The leather handles and that Gantry rail is brilliant.

@bonniepettersen4063 Жыл бұрын

Amazing build! Glad it gets you both out in nature and enjoying life to the fullest🚐

@mikewarner7395 9 ай бұрын

I absolutely love this! I am a C6/7 quadriplegic and I've been searching for modified camper vans. I love seeing this, but I have no knowledge or building experience to take on a project like this myself. But I can show this video to the experts and see what we can all come up with in partnership.

@susanmorris5520 11 ай бұрын

This is so impressive and definitely so inspiring too for those that are disabled who want to live the Van life. This man is so very talented, creative and smart too to design this van like this. I think that not only to live in a van like this but to also be able to travel as a disabled person who has a home too. This is definitely great for the future. God bless this man and I wish him continued success and maybe he should get into this as a career? Thanks, Sue M. Florida 👏🏻👏🏻❤️🙏🥰❌⭕️

@markweaver6634 11 ай бұрын

DIFFICULT BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE! I have MS and use a wheelchair to get just about anywhere but I’m still converting a retired M2 Freightliner Ambulance. People think I’m crazy but after helping my mom for nearly 10 years with her dementia it’s now time for me to see my friends that are all over the place. Everything takes easily twice or even three times as long but I believe it will be worth it!

@MichaelMcTheny Жыл бұрын

This is amazing . been thinking about something like this for myself .. it's really something to see a build like this in the wild .. thank you so much for sharing this 😊

@lynnescaddan8919 10 ай бұрын

Thanq for the video The modification in your home on wheels is brilliant, it's unusual to see a person with disabilities living full-time in home on wheels. Stay safe on your travels

@warriorgirl8118 Жыл бұрын

Ilove this because I believe tiny house makers can make handicapped accessible homes for people with disabilities this is awesome you did a great job Iam so happy for you 😊

@novampires223 Жыл бұрын

I have a Superarm, I love it! Great company too! I have a short bus that I built, and a pre sprinter sprinter, a 1992 Mercedes fire dept support van. Pretty small for 3 dogs and us, the bus is waaay more comfortable. Good job here, much prettier than mine😂

@Kim-cq2om 5 ай бұрын

Very nice! 👍 Thanks for the wash! 👍🇸🇪🙏

@jeroberts7228 Жыл бұрын

Wow. That was impressive! What a lot of work, and dedication, and planning, and trial & error - but they got it done! I wish them the best.

@lindahayes547 Жыл бұрын

That is an excellent design! You did a fantastic job!

@mariamoshogianni7008 Жыл бұрын

Nice van the dog is adorable thanks for sharing god bless stay safe 🙏 ❤️.

@GOLDVIOLINbowofdeath Жыл бұрын

I would’ve loved to have heard more about that first year, trying to work with someone else building it. One of the best residence designs ever was Maison de Verre in Paris, which was a collaboration over three years between the architect and the owner who was a gynecologist and was building a residence that was ground floor doctors office and upper floor residence. I would have loved to have worked with him on this project building it for him.

@BrittMFH Жыл бұрын

There is a commercial brand that offers a Class B for disabled in wheelchairs, but this one is SO much nicer! $160K is not bad for it. 👍

@martinnauta4385 Жыл бұрын

Hats off SIR! Amazing uplifting video. You and your wife are an example for many others, including me. Martin from South Africa.

@SuperStargazer100 8 ай бұрын

As a c6 para this has to be the most no frills ergonomically built van. Love the bed system and bathroom will fit perfectly underneath. Well built Loren! ☮💜💪🏾

@cathylynnpietranton Жыл бұрын

Absolutely amazing. Well done..👍👍Thank you Genna for sharing their story ❤

@jerseyboy8017 7 ай бұрын

This is a great design. We have the 2023 Winnebago Roam which works well for our family’s needs but your design really excels in meeting needs of WC user looking for nearly 100% independence. Well done.

@Hoofprintknits Жыл бұрын

My favorite video yet!!!

@dogcatparty7371 Жыл бұрын

6/2/2023 Best Wishes to All! This is an example of how to help save 8 billion people & 8 billion pets!!! Very pretty dog!!! G'Day

@MBMCincy63 Жыл бұрын

Amazing guy, well thought out planning, glad you shared his& his wife experience. Thanks again 👍🏻

@conniesoares157 Жыл бұрын

What a great van and everything in it! Good job guys!

@dawncrawford6806 Жыл бұрын

im truly amazed with creativity , planning and your freedom !!

@jasongooden917 9 ай бұрын

As a wheelchair user, I literally had that same crane idea... 😆 One other thing I'd do is have an entrance on the side and the rear, this way I can park in any parking spot or maybe even access the charger if the van is electric EDIT: oops, just realised you can get in from the rear of the van. that's great

@FM-uk8rs Жыл бұрын

A Brilliant build , perfect for this family !

@valeriebridge7305 Жыл бұрын

Sending you heaps of good wishes and congratulations from New Zealand.

@Cinematic-Frenzy Жыл бұрын

Beautiful people. May God bless them.

@JB-eg1tb Жыл бұрын

This video is an example of individuals who are resourceful and solution oriented!

@A222Z 2 ай бұрын

Wow .. what a great van-> so much creativity .. 👏 Truly Amazing.

@katherinekelly5380 11 ай бұрын

Gosh - love this build! So smart, so functional

@cathyandgreg4239 Жыл бұрын

Such an inspirational man / couple... yes there is definitely a need for more leisure activities to be accessible to all peoples.

@denisepelton5556 Жыл бұрын

Pretty cool, I am having a handicap tiny home built currently 399 square feet.

@rosemarydoran9907 Жыл бұрын

Who is your builder and what is your floorplan like? I would love to see the layout.

@denisepelton5556 Жыл бұрын

@@rosemarydoran9907 someone keeps deleting my reply’s sorry

@thewheelieguy 5 ай бұрын

KZfaq deletes comments that have web links, and this is probably what's going on. Give some terms they could search on to find a webpage.

@lisaclingingtochrist5295 Жыл бұрын

Super cool. I was immediately impressed!

@sundancita Жыл бұрын

That was really interesting. So impressive on all the changes they made to make it accessible. I hope manufacturers will get a clue on this.

@meridethhendry5733 Жыл бұрын

What a wonderful rig! Brilliantly planned and executed. He has thought of everything and they seem like a very fun couple. Love this!!

@wander570 Жыл бұрын

This is cool! Been wondering if this was possible for van life. Thank you for sharing!

@gregjacobs8287 9 ай бұрын

As a C6/7 for more than 40 years I am looking for a three day freedom machine and this is close. The bathroom and hot showers can wait for the third night at a hotel. I built a great accessible house but getting out for a different experience is the variety that spices up life!

@joylynnburkhardt3202 Жыл бұрын

Super cool!

@wheretheresawheeltheresawa2379 5 күн бұрын

New subscriber here. Im also a wheelchair user ( C8/T1). Love your van. I love the gliding lift idea. Considering how expensive (160k) it is to convert a normal van into something like this, wouldn’t it be better just to buy an RV (Newmar wheelchair accessible RV) or a handicapped van (Winnebago) thats already built for wheelchair users. They come with bathroom and shower too.

@cenedraleaheldra5275 Жыл бұрын

This Build is So well thought through. Amazing build

@gerryryan1372 Жыл бұрын

Well done, im a wheelchair ♿️ user. If i had my life over. Id have loved to travel xx

@lynnallen1315 Жыл бұрын

Now that is truly the most amazing build I've ever seen. You guys are incredible!

@pinkladybikermamma3603 Жыл бұрын

LOVE IT. LOVE IT. LOVE IT. GOOD FOR THOSE GUYS. AND GALS.

@joanneganon7157 Жыл бұрын

So nice to see you get aroundwith ease with your Camper Van🐦. Thanks Jenna 😊. JO JO IN VT 💞

@lanetteprice7508 Жыл бұрын

Im a 20 years stroke 8x survivor beautiful job

@pamreneick464 Жыл бұрын

Your built is awesome! So is your bike. Im sure yohve inspired many. Maybe someone creative can come up with less expensive handicap tools . Like.... a zipline reinforced with straps . Just a thought👍

@tynitahaines4012 11 ай бұрын

AWESOME VAN!!! Very well thought out.

@JagLite Жыл бұрын

Magnificent!

@lindajadams8932 Жыл бұрын

Love this! Safe travels!🎉

@h.h.legacydiesel6724 Жыл бұрын

Super nice van build. 👍🏻. It's nice to see you out doing all the things that you want to do, especially with your wife, and to be able to get out there on your bikes together. Walking the dog as well. Hats off to you, wishing you many happy outings. 👍🏻✌🏻🌤🇨🇦

@tonygilbert2373 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the video and in particular the transport methods. We hope to adapt a van for travel as well. These ideas are inspirational.

@kellizubler5703 Жыл бұрын

I am sooo impressed with your van and with your determination and attitude. Thank you for sharing!

@GodiscomingBhappy 11 ай бұрын

speechless! creative and inspiring👍🙏

@jeanbaardsen2863 Жыл бұрын

Impressive how you've overcome so many obstacles. I love the build. That's really decent gas mileage too! Also love your bike. Happy Trails!

@gsomers248 Жыл бұрын

Amazing build - hats off to you!

@judithclark2823 Жыл бұрын

Very nice🥰

@ShadowMoonFarms Жыл бұрын

Thank you

@thelmahall2593 11 ай бұрын

wow ive never heard of the super lift! and it hardly takes up any space too wow!!

@pawpaw324 Жыл бұрын

Beautiful and inspiring episode!!!!!

@jennyellis2062 Жыл бұрын

You've done an amazing job with your van, I have cerebyl palsy and arthritis in my legs and need a walker to walk with so even though I'm not in a wheelchair it shows that I can still travel in a van like this, only thing is that you ĺive in america and ì ĺive in Australia

@vallapink Жыл бұрын

I really enjoed watching yhis video ❤ this car gave me hope I can do this 👌benn waiting for so long just to see how it is possible 💕

@SylvainMenard Жыл бұрын

Awesome, incredible design! Thanks for the video!

@tamelaharsin7186 Жыл бұрын

Wow, so impressed with this van and most importantly this gentleman and his friend. Maybe they should start up a new business?

@papajoe95 Жыл бұрын

Love all your videos Jenna

@GOLDVIOLINbowofdeath Жыл бұрын

Brilliant he used sliding doors instead of hinged doors to make more room for turning around and so it can stay open and not be in his way. I did the same. Also lighter, cheaper and easier to build

@denisebd1000 Жыл бұрын

Wow 😯 I am so amazed! This is a very heartfelt video. I’m at a loss for words! God Bless him! I’m glad he has such a satisfying lifestyle!

@christylloyd5043 11 ай бұрын

Lovely need in Adelaide sa so good to have people assembled 😅

@reneewright8391 Жыл бұрын

What a great job! This is inspiring! ❤

@GOLDVIOLINbowofdeath Жыл бұрын

I have an 18 gallon stainless steel tank that was formally part of a expensive water filtration system bought it used for $75 and put it under my van near sliding door. Just fit. I thought about putting another water tank or the spare tire wise but I already have so much weight on the back axle and putting it behind. The back axle is the worst place you can put it for steering stability. I also question having one tank divided in the compartments to carry freshwater and gray water because if you ever damage it and get a leak between the two compartments you could die before you figure it out.