Jackson Heights, NY–United Spinal Association, a membership group for individuals with a spinal cord injury or a spinal disorder such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spina bifida, and poliomyelitis, has received a grant of $17,500 for its Wheelchair Medic program to pay for wheelchair tune-ups for persons with mobility disabilities in the New York City metropolitan region.

Specially trained technicians will perform the tune-ups either at the Wheelchair Medic main facility at Fort Totten, Queens, or at our customers’ homes using our fleet of five Wheelchair Medic repair vans. Customers who bring their wheelchairs to our main facility for a tune-up will also receive a free wheelchair cleaning.

The wheelchair tune-up program is scheduled to begin in April 2008, so that United Spinal Association has sufficient time to conduct outreach. A reliable, properly-working wheelchair or scooter is essential to the independence and quality of life of people who use them to maintain personal mobility. Getting regular tune-ups helps to keep the wheelchair safe and functioning properly, and helps to prevent major problems from developing.

A Wheelchair Medic 10-Point Tune-Up includes a check of the following: rear tires; front caster wheels and forks; wheel locks; upholstery and arm pads; frame integrity; folding mechanism, if applicable; battery and charger power; wheel bearings; nuts and bolts; and, safety equipment.

United Spinal Association’s Wheelchair Medic program has been serving the New York City metropolitan area for more than 30 years. Our experienced mechanics can solve almost any wheelchair or scooter problem. In addition to wheelchair repairs, Wheelchair Medic also sells wheelchairs and scooters, offering a 10% discount to United Spinal Association members.