Today was a landmark day for Jim.
He took a ride in his brand new van to a doctor at the local medical complex. Less than one mile away. It will always be remembered because it was raining to the hospital and on the return trip. Several routine tests and the results are expected in a few days.
The first-time getting Jim in the van proved to be a little challenging. Seems the dealer provided a new set of safety straps to secure the wheelchair to the floor. It took several minutes to install them. The hospital has a curb cut at the front door to allow the chair to roll down the ramp and into the building. In addition, it has a large overhang, so the patient is not in the rain for the approximately 12 feet to the door.
Jim commented the van has real shocks, seems the medical transport hired prior was a rough ride. The van weighs 4500 pounds and does ride smooth. The extra weight is for the all the special hydraulic equipment to run the doors and ramp. When the doors open the van kneels several inches, so the access ramp is not to steep. Also makes it easier to push the patient up the ramp and into the van.