Marco Pompe – That's how he rolls

What makes a day a good day to you?

Marco Pompe: When my disability allows me to do sports with others.

Which auxiliary means or daily living aids are indispensable for you?

Marco Pompe: Active wheelchair, walking aids, whole-leg orthoses for both sides (to keep the load on the body low and to dose it).

What would you like to see from society and your fellow people in dealing with people with disabilities?

Marco Pompe: For us people with disabilities to be better included in the elimination of barrieres and sports clubs opening up even more for us to use the offers there. Accessibility in rural areas must be improved. In general, it's about sports facilities, seating areas, toilets, expansion of bike paths with rest areas and signage.

Which assistive device would urgently need to be invented and/or improved?

Marco Pompe: A tool for the independent use of public transportation. I see major problems here, for example when traveling by train. We often reach our limits, because a long-term registration and help from the staff is necessary, and in the end the trip does not work out perfectly.

What has been your biggest challenge so far that you have mastered – and what has helped you?

Marco Pompe: The biggest challenge was the construction of my home. I wish for even better support from the authorities. It wouldn`t have been possible without the help of the family.

What can the assistive technology industry learn from the Corona pandemic to make life easier and/or better for people with disabilities in the future?

Marco Pompe: The pricing for the supply of aids is a huge problem. The fight with the health insurance for approval, is very nerve-wracking, because too many companies are involved.

If nothing would be impossible: Who would you like to meet one day and why?

Marco Pompe: I would like to meet my father again, as he passed away way too early.

What was your best REHACARE experience?

Marco Pompe: Unfortunately, I haven't been there yet, but I will try to be at the next opportunity.

What else I wanted to say ...

Marco Pompe: Successful participation in an integrative sports region is something I strive for, because only with these projects new ways of inclusion can be created. Sports is even more fun together and thus brings mutual success.