TRAVEL STORIES

Yvonne from Northern Ireland

Freedom on four wheels: Yvonne’s journey without limits

For Yvonne, travel isn’t about distance per se, it’s about freedom. Living in Northern Ireland, she travels every few months, but to her, travel goes beyond exploring new cities or going abroad; it’s simply part of her everyday life. Whether it’s a short morning walk or a journey across the sea, her rollator helps her stay active, independent, and fully present in every moment.

Follow Yvonne

@yvonne.green.90

On the road: ferry and car adventures

I love road trips. We often travel by ferry and car to visit my son in Liverpool, and having my lightweight rollator with me has made such a difference. On long journeys, when I start to feel stiff, I can get out, walk, and stretch my legs, which makes the whole experience so much more comfortable.

I use my rollator in everyday moments too, when we’re out for dinner, socialising, or even at special occasions. I’ve used it at a family wedding so I could mingle freely, without having to cling on to my husband. It gives me a real sense of independence, allowing me to keep up with my family without limits.

I’ve travelled to the USA, Canada, the UK, Ireland, and Spain, and honestly, everywhere is so accessible nowadays, you really can live without limits.

I’m never embarrassed to use my rollator. My enthusiasm for living my life is far greater than any self-consciousness. Most people don’t even notice, and if they do, the comments are always kind and positive. More than once, people have told me on my daily walk that I’m an inspiration, and that makes me so happy, knowing I can encourage others means everything.

Thoughtful travel, every step

When planning, I make sure to arrange things that will make the journey easier.

While travelling, I focus on staying comfortable and taking breaks when I need them.

At the destination, I always consider accessibility so I can move around freely and enjoy my time without limitations.

Travel tips from Yvonne

Invest in the travel bag

Put luggage labels on it. It has been a godsend for flights and road trips to protect my byACRE Carbon Ultralight. I am able to walk to the steps of the aircraft and put my rollator in the travel bag where it is then put into the hold. It is then waiting on me after the flight either at the bottom of the steps or on the luggage conveyor belt.

Book special assistance at the airport

It is superb. Do not be embarrassed or imagine you don’t need it because it makes such a difference. No standing in queues, because you’ll be escorted straight through passport control etc.

Request a ground floor room

We recently were in the Canary Islands, and I could walk with my rollator straight from my ground floor terrace around the resort, without waiting around for lifts during busy season with young families who also needed lifts with prams etc.