A power wheelchair for more joy and freedom

One power wheelchair user supports the rest: Alex Papanikolaou's personal experiences led to the founding of Freedom One Life – a Scottish electric wheelchair manufacturer. His experiences were incorporated into the development of a wheelchair that combines robustness and technology for a better quality of life and more freedom.

For Alex Papanikolaou, the motivation for founding Freedom One Life was deeply personal. Confronted with a disability from birth, he faced the limitations of the power wheelchairs available to him on a daily basis. Although this did not stop him from traveling through 35 countries for 5 years after graduating from university, his trip was not only marked by adventures, but also by wheelchair problems. "From the constant stowing of chargers in backpacks to the search for new batteries in Australia and new motors in Singapore to countless generous bike stores that helped me repair brackets, tires and widgets that were constantly falling apart – I could write novels about that and the dramas at airports," says Alex Papanikolaou.

By browsing online forums, Alex Papanikolaou learned a lot about how power wheelchairs work. And he discovered that other people were also dissatisfied with their wheelchairs and frustrated by a market that didn't seem to care about them. Alex Papanikolaou decided to change that.

In 2013, Alex Papanikolaou founded Freedom One Life with a clear goal: to develop a power wheelchair that truly responds to the needs and wishes of its users. "From the very beginning, I wanted the power wheelchair to be as reliable, comfortable and carefree as possible – with a battery that lasts longer than I do, motors and tires that effortlessly overcome curbs, and a flight mode that makes traveling by plane easier," Alex Papanikolaou explains his vision.

After numerous prototypes, Alex Papanikolaou and his team created the Freedom One Life Series 5 – a power wheelchair characterized by exceptional robustness and technology.

Alex Papanikolaou has now covered more than 20,000 test kilometers with the Series 5. According to Freedom One Life, this power wheelchair has been tested to perfection. And according to the Scottish manufacturer, this is what sets the Series 5 apart from other power wheelchairs:

• Long-lasting battery: The battery lasts three times longer than conventional models and offers a range of 40 km under real-life conditions.
• Intuitive operation: The wheelchair is easy to handle and combines modern design with functional and aesthetic requirements.
• Certification and safety: Certified as a medical device and crash-tested to ensure maximum safety.
• Integrated charger: A globally functioning, integrated charger eliminates the need for bulky external chargers.
• Easy to transport: A foldable backrest and battery disconnect key make transportation quick and easy.
• Adaptability: Different seat sizes and electric seat options offer the perfect solution for every user.
• Perfect position for every situation: Whether watching movies, shopping or having conversations at eye level – the Series 5 adapts to every life situation.

What makes Freedom One Life special is its focus on the needs and wishes of the user. The design team is led by a power wheelchair user who understands the daily frustrations of users and knows exactly what is important. This human-centered approach ensures that the Freedom One Life wheelchair is not only functional, but a true companion for independent living. "I use the Series 5 myself every day and see how our customers experience the joy and freedom that I wanted to create in 2013," says Alex Papanikolaou.

And indeed, the Freedom One Life power wheelchair seems to be life-changing for many users. In their reviews, they report a newfound freedom to go wherever they want and finally take an active part in life. This new mobility has also enabled many to develop more self-confidence and make new friends.

In a world that often forgets how important mobility and independence are, Freedom One Life sends out a strong signal: Everyone deserves to experience their environment without restrictions. And thanks to Alex Papanikolaou and his team, this vision is becoming a reality for more and more people.

New features at REHACARE

2024 has been a busy year for Freedom One Life, they have successfully set up a German wide distribution network and also have a so called German "Hilfsmittelnummer" for the Series 5 (18.99.06.1151), allowing it to be funded by German health insurance companies.

And as always the team is listening to customers and innovating. REHACARE 2024 will bring a brand new look to the Series 5, additional driving customisation options that allows the user to choose from over 2.5 million combinations to fine tune the driving style exactly the way they like it, as well as introducing powered recline and leg raise functions. Pop along to stand 5E35 and see all the new benefits!

Jennifer Meyer
REHACARE.com