Access All Areas Podcast (Episode 4 – Adventure travel)
In this episode we introduce you to the world of adventure travel with an SCI, bringing a range of stories, hints and tips from people with lived experience of SCI.
Access All Areas Podcast (Episode 4 – Adventure travel)
The aim is to capture the interest and confidence in the would-be traveller, and to inspire them by showing examples of adventure travel. The podcast also aims to see what can be learned from adventure travel for use in everyday travel.
We talk to extensive travellers Rob, Darren and Suzanne about their journeys from beginning to now. What inspired them, their aspirations, and what equipped them. And most of all what helps them create successful travel. What have they learned from their experiences. What can they tell a newly injured person with SCI that will inspire to reach further than they think they can.
How does this mindset/ or experience applies to everyday life. What resources, communities or gear/ tools have been helpful.
Transcript
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Meet our guests
Rob Smith is the CEO of The Active Hands Company. He has a C5/6 incomplete spinal cord injury from a cliff fall 28 years ago and has severely affected hand function. This led him to set up the Active Hands company – which designs and sells products to help those with reduced hand function. He is a competitive wheelchair racer still travelling internationally to take part in road races and marathons in his racing wheelchair.
Rob does not get to travel in the same ways he used to, but has travelled to around 50 countries many of them as a backpacker on a restricted budget and all as a disabled traveller. He travels using a wheelchair but at a push he is able to stand and take a few steps with lots of assistance. His favourite places are Indonesia, Fiji, Thailand and Argentina.
Hi, I’m Suzanne Edwards. I was injured 14 years ago when I was working in a surf camp in Morocco and a balcony railing gave way and I fell about 30 feet. I have a T8 complete injury. Travel and sport were a huge part of my life before my accident, and have continued to be a big part in my life now. My main sport is para surfing and I am part of the English para surf team and have competed in the World Championships 3 times.
I have worked for Airbnb for over 7 years and my role is Accessibility Standards Lead. My role is to set the vision and strategy for accessibility and then work with different teams within the company to execute. I travel a lot for work, and always try to make the most of work trips by adding on an additional few days to really explore the area I’m in. When I’m in a new place I always seek out more outdoors-y activities and enjoy going off the beaten track (which isn’t always successful!)
Disclaimer: Please note, the content of this podcast reflects the personal opinions and experiences of the speakers. It should not be considered medical advice. For professional guidance consult with a relevant expert. SIA has no affiliation to any commercial entities spoken about or highlighted as part of the content of this podcast series. SIA is not in a position to endorse or recommend individual products or entities. Participants views are based entirely on their own experiences and they are speaking as separate entities.
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