Celebrating International Wheelchair Day

The origins of the first wheelchair date back to ancient times – with records of wheeled transportation devices found in stone carvings in China, as well as an image on a Greek vase of a wheeled child’s bed.

But it was not until 1595 that the first known wheelchair for disability and mobility was designed for King Phillip II of Spain.

Since then, the wheelchair has evolved significantly and now comes in many shapes and sizes to fit the needs of all individuals – and every year, on March 1, we celebrate International Wheelchair Day.

International Wheelchair Day is an annual, global celebration during which wheelchair users acknowledge the positive impact a wheelchair has had on their lives.

At ABLE United, we, alongside our account holders, salute the great work of the millions of people who provide wheelchairs, who provide support and care for wheelchair users and who make the world a better and more accessible place for people with mobility issues.

We’re inspired by our account holders who are using funds in their ABLE accounts to purchase and repair their wheelchairs, and even make accommodations in their homes or vehicles.

We hope you’ll join us in raising awareness of the millions of wheelchair users around the world and the contributions of those who provide help and support.