FREEDOM TO TRAVEL
The Freedom Tent helps the handicapped enjoy the great outdoors
BY:ERIC FEIL
A trip to the great outdoors might make a great getaway thanks to the Eureka! Freedom Tent ($329), which was named by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society a 2006 Da Vinci AwardTM winner for outstanding design innovations aimed at helping the disabled overcome barriers. The two-person tent offers rugged design for protection from the elements. But, most importantly, it has features to make camping a reality for many who might think they're relegated to their home or care facility.
"There was no one disability in mind when the tent was designed," says Linda Grebe, product director of consumer tents at Eureka! "Rather, the idea was that modifications could be made for people with range-of-motion issues and other physical concerns who still want to get out there."
Adaptive technology-like continuous pole sleeves and pole pockets on both ends-means even a person in a wheelchair could assemble the tent alone, Grebe notes. There also are easy-to-grab pull handles on the internal door and window zippers, as well as a zipperless front door. "A person doesn't even need the ability to grab or grasp to open that zipperless door," Grebe says, "only enough mobility to pivot his arm. It opens wide enough for a wheelchair."
A vestibule was added to store wheelchairs and other equipment. "That's also perfect for a dog's sleeping area for people who have a one helping them," she adds of the Blue Sky Design creation. "And the big wall panels in the back open wide enough to allow somebody who needs to be transferred laterally to be brought in and put right onto a cot. We hope it gives everyone the confidence to know they can get out there and enjoy themselves."
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