Guest Blog by Jeffrey VanDyke
I am a Peer Mentor, Graphic Designer, Social Media Manager, and Community Presenter at Disability Network West Michigan. My job is to talk of accessibility in terms of making the world a better, more inclusive place for others. But I also speak from a practical perspective - and lived experience. I myself, am a wheelchair user who was born with Cerebral Palsy as a result of being born 3 months premature.
While accessibility, at its core, is intended to open up the world for all, it's also important to acknowledge there is not a "one size fits all" approach. Something that works for one individual might not be the entire key for the person beside them. But take a little dialogue, trial and error, compassion, and perhaps a bit of MacGyvering with the tools and elements available (don't look at the screen like that... I'm not that old, we're talking about the reboot!). Couple these with creative thinking and you never know whose life you could be impacting. Or, just how far into the future that reach can - and will go.
Design by Jeffrey VanDyke
You see, accessibility is not merely being able to access something - or not. Accessibility elevates a person from being a casual observer to an active participant in the treasures of life. This is often achieved by providing the proper tools and specialized equipment. This equipment offers an opportunity to take part in daily activities. Daily activities that those living without disabilities may take for granted. For those within the disability community this was something only to be dreamt of. Until recently.
This past week, I had the privilege of doing something I never thought possible. That was being able to not only go to the beach as a wheelchair user - but to actively explore the sandscape. I was also able to traverse the hiking trails at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park. All thanks to a specialized Action Trackchair, which was provided to me by the Muskegon State Park. This TrackChair available to all who request it - free of cost!
View on TikTok
From a personal perspective, it's difficult to adequately describe or capture. How surreal the feeling of looking out at the water and being able to glide through the sand independently. Without worry about becoming trapped in the sand. Or waiting for another person to move you from one point to another. But in a single word, it's truly freeing. Beyond that, it was also quite emotional for multiple reasons.
The first person that I couldn't help but think about was my mom. My Mom was my original lifelong Disability Advocate. She absolutely loved sitting at the lake watching the water from our car. We were never able to leave the vehicle due to inaccessibility at the beach. We unfortunately lost her in 2020 after an 18-month long battle with Lung Cancer. But somehow, I felt connected to her. as I knew she was enjoying the view with me. And hopefully she was looking over my entire journey with pride.
Adaptive Zip-line at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park. Click Image for information on Adaptive Sports Available at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
Photo Courtesy of Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park.
Beyond my own journey, I feel extraordinarily blessed to participate in a day of this magnitude. As I know firsthand how this equipment will open up a whole new world for people with disabilities. The ability to freely explore and navigate beaches, trails, and other terrains!
All these were previously too difficult to navigate before such magnificent inventions. It is difficult to encapsulate in words, but it will truly be a catalyst in changing lives. For years to come it will change how people living with disabilities navigate travel.
Thank you allowing myself and future generations the opportunity to experience (as we should be able too) hope, joy, and optimism for the future.
Jeffrey VanDyke Graphic Design Specialist Disability Network West Michigan
We encourage everyone to enjoy our beautiful beaches and accessible trails in Muskegon County without barriers!
Pere Marquette Beach
- Mobi-Chair: Ideal for smooth rides over sand and into the water. Features include a floating, lightweight design and easy maneuverability for an inclusive beach experience.
- Action Trackchair: Designed for navigating tough sand with all-terrain treads, battery power, and attachments for fishing poles and umbrellas, perfect for those seeking an adventurous beach day.
Muskegon State Park
- TrackChair: Designed for off-road use on trails and uneven surfaces, including beach areas, offering enhanced accessibility for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Beach Chair: Similar to the TrackChair but specifically designed for beach use, ensuring everyone can enjoy the sandy shores.
Availability and Reservations
- Pere Marquette Beach: Reserve the Mobi-Chair or Action Trackchair by calling the City of Muskegon Department of Public Works at (231) 724-4100.
- Muskegon State Park: Reserve the TrackChair or Beach Chair by contacting the park office at (231) 744-3480 during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM).
Important Notes:
- All beach wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- There is no fee to use these accessible devices.
- For safety reasons, a companion may be needed to assist with transfers
I wish for a world that views disability, mental or physical, not as a hindrance but as unique attributes that can be seen as powerful assets if given the right opportunities.” ~ Oliver Sacks
Read the National Geographic article "Here are the most wheelchair-friendly beaches in the U.S." by Curb Free with Corey Lee
