A paralyzed woman watched her husband sneak into the garage every night
Brad Soden, a warrior who carried the marks of battle found inspiration, in his wifes tears over the years. Despite facing challenges and setbacks he was driven by a desire to create a wheelchair that would match her grace.
Liz Soden, an individual whose life had been changed by a car accident resulting in paralysis experienced the heartache of missing out on precious moments with their five children during family adventures in nature.
Determined and unwavering Brad was committed to relieving her pain and restoring joy to their lives.
In Brads words when he spoke candidly with Matt Lauer on TODAY he said, “Her tears push me forward; I will bring about the miracle she longs for.”
Undeterred by his lack of education or engineering expertise Brad, a plumber, by trade overcame numerous obstacles to craft a wheelchair equipped with tank like treads. This innovative design enabled them to conquer terrains and reach the summits of towering mountains.
“We faced some challenges along the way ” Brad recalled. “. Through diligence and determination we quickly resolved them.”
The result of his passion project became known as the “Tankchair,” an invention that gave Liz the freedom and independence she longed for. This transformation turned Brads hobby into his career.
In Lizs words as she spoke with Lauer “Now I can explore trails. Go on camping trips no longer limited to being a mere spectator, in the car while others enjoy playing in the snow.”
“Now I can join in chasing after my children walking beside them of being confined within the vehicle or our home.”
Brad, driven by his nature dreams of gifting Tankchairs to wounded comrades in arms. However this noble gesture faces challenges as insurance companies classify these life changing devices as vehicles without providing coverage.
Priced between $12,000 and $15,000 and of reaching speeds up to 30 miles per hour the “Tankchair” has gained popularity among injured veterans. The waiting list, for those to obtain this feat of engineering and compassion extends three months long.
