~ Colorado Springs, CO - Deb Hartelius' final outdoor activity was a memorable one. On October 2, 2024, she embarked on a Trackchair tour in Red Rock Canyon Open Space, thanks to her son Hjal who signed her up for the experience. Little did they know that this would be her last adventure before her health took a turn for the worse and she spent her remaining days in a hospital room.

But on that crisp fall day, Deb was able to forget about all of her health problems and fully immerse herself in the beauty of the park scenery. She drove herself in the specialized chair and had the opportunity to chat with rangers about history, nature, and life. In an email to the City of Colorado Springs, Hjal expressed his gratitude for the experience and his hope that others would have the same opportunity.

Fortunately, the Trackchair Program is here to stay. This program is a collaboration between the Therapeutic Recreation Program and Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) Program with the goal of providing sustainable access for all to Colorado Springs' parks and open spaces. The program utilizes all-terrain mobility devices to assist visitors with mobility challenges in exploring trails and open spaces that may not be suitable for regular wheelchairs.

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The program eliminates barriers and allows individuals with disabilities to fully experience nature. However, there are some considerations for those interested in participating. Participants must be able to transfer independently into and out of the Trackchair or bring a companion along. They must also be at least five years old and weigh no more than 250 pounds. Additionally, weather can affect the availability of the program which typically runs from April until October.

The Therapeutic Recreation Program also plays a crucial role in providing opportunities for both youth and adults with disabilities to acquire skills and participate in leisure experiences throughout Colorado Springs. TRP staff provide advocacy and inclusion support so that individuals with disabilities can enjoy general recreation activities.

Felicia Barnhart, Therapeutic Recreation Program supervisor, emphasized the importance of access to the outdoors for both physical and mental well-being. "The Trackchair Program allows people to experience our parks with independence and dignity, creating moments that can have a lasting impact on individuals and their families," she shared.

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Hjal's email to the team further highlighted the impact of this program. "I would never again see her as happy and free as she was on that day. Thank you all so much for giving her that extra special experience," he wrote.

It is important to note that people with disabilities make up the largest minority group in the United States and anyone can join at any point in their life. Programs like Trackchair ensure that access to nature, movement, and connection remains possible for everyone, regardless of ability.

To learn more about the Trackchair Program, visit coloradosprings.gov/trackchair. Jason T. Strickland, Lieutenant Colonel (U.S. Army Retired) and chief communications officer at the City of Colorado Springs, can be reached at jason.strickland@coloradosprings.gov.

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