John and Jo (inset) are keen campers and fisherpeople. Jo's offroad wheelchair fitted with fishing racks provide her access to lots of fishing hotspots.
John and Jo were determined not to let Jo’s medical condition stop them from travelling. John gives the Grey Nomads an insight into their journey:
‘We’ve loved camping and getting away for all of our happily married life of 44 years. With our four kids, we progressed from a large tent to a Jayco Dove, and have always been able to adjust to the situation at hand. So, when my wife Jo was diagnosed with a neurological condition similar to Multiple Sclerosis which is affecting her mobility, we sat down to reassess things somewhat regarding our future caravanning plans. Jo can walk for very short distances so, we decided to do what we could, accept what God has given us … and not give up.
‘We decided to buy a reputable off-road caravan which is fully self-contained, including a 600 amp lithium battery system for our power needs … ideal for free camping. We also decided to purchase a 4×4 wheelchair which fits into the back of our LandCruiser, via a set of alloy ramps. This chair, although not cheap, is a beauty and is able to drive on soft beach sand. Both of us love fishing, so a pair of rod holders were attached to the chair and a special bag hangs off the rear for the big fish … and it gets used!
‘We try to get away every year and, at places like Eighty Mile Beach, Jo is known as ‘the lady in the blue chair’ as she often flies up the beach for some five or more kilometres. Jo also has a mobility walker which is handy for resting on when tired, and a walking stick.
‘We still enjoy this caravanning life and will try to do it as long as we can. Last year, we travelled from WA to Adelaide then up to Tennant Creek, across to Brisbane, up to Cairns and back home via the Savannah Way and, of course, Eighty Mile beach and back home.
‘We have found that the majority of caravan parks are wheelchair friendly, as were most major attractions and supermarkets. When you live with someone who has a disability, you soon learn what you can do and, sure sometimes I do head off on my own, but most things we do together. If you can afford it, there is no reason for anyone with a disability to stay at home. Medical attention is available in most places and your doctor should be able to supply you with your necessary scripts.
‘Today’s caravans with all the modern extras make them ideal and it becomes unnecessary for you to use the public amenities and, as long as you can walk a little, it’s very easy to move around because everything is close by. Our bed is facing east-west with the ensuite right next to Jo’s side. Even if you can’t get around too much, just driving around this fantastic country of ours is a blessing with so much to see even from your car seat. We do often take the caravan away for short two to seven day trips close to home, or take the van to Perth when visiting our daughter. We enjoy the lifestyle and have seen and experienced so much these last 10 years … and are always thinking of where to go next.’
