Quantum Q6 Edge – Powered Wheelchair

Wheelchair Description:
Black high padded backrest with headrest, burnt orange base, six solid wheels (largest set in the middle as it is a mid-wheel drive). The control unit also changes the back angle and tilt of the seating.

Battery Life:
For light everyday use, the battery lasts roughly 2 or 3 days.
For busy days, it would require a full charge each night.

Source of Wheelchair:
NHS Wheelchair Services

Diagnosis:
Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

Personal Opinion:
This wheelchair was prescribed due to it having the ability to turn very tight corners making it ideal for small homes and confined spaces. It is highly manoeuvrable and has lots of suspensions to create a smoother ride whether on paving or other surfaces (be warned that it may get stuck on wet muddy grass!). It was subsequently modified to have a motorised tilt and back angle adjustment which has drastically improved my ability to adapt the chair to my changing needs throughout the day.

The weight of this wheelchair (~125kg at current spec) does mean that having a WAV is essential unless you rely on public transport as it cannot be taken apart or lifted. Using it with a WAV and automatic tie-down system has transformed my ability to go out independently.

The only downsides are that there isn’t anywhere convenient to store bags when shopping; along with the fact that it is a very tall chair meaning restaurant tables etc are often too low to comfortable sit under/ea from. That said I am dreading the day that it breaks down and I have to change to a different model (this one isn’t an option through wheelchair services where I currently live) so I am taking very good care of it and it is still going strong nine years on!