Understanding Mobility and Independence: A Physiotherapy Volunteer's POV

When a physiotherapist joins a wheelchair fitment program not just to observe, but to participate with their heart and hands, something special happens. Here is Ms.Kamaleshwari's account of volunteering with us during a fitment program, she joined us from Chettinad Academy of Research and Education.

I recently had the opportunity to volunteer with Motivation India during a wheelchair fitment program conducted at IRCDS, Thiruvallur. As a physiotherapy student passionate about mobility and rehabilitation, this experience was nothing short of life-changing. It gave me not only hands-on learning but also deep insight into the dignity that comes with appropriate mobility solutions. Over the course of the program, I supported the team in the fitment of wheelchairs and was guided closely by professionals like Mr. Sudhakar (Regional Manager), Mr. Prashant (Wheelchair Technician), and Ms. Nandhini (Project Officer). Their dedication and mentorship helped me truly understand what it means to restore mobility with care and precision.

An Eye-Opening Experience

Before this program, I used to think that simply providing someone with a wheelchair meant giving them mobility. But that belief changed the moment I joined this initiative. It was my friend, who works with Motivation India, who invited me to be part of this program. I’d first heard of the organisation during my undergraduate days—my professor had completed a wheelchair training course and often spoke about the importance of wheelchair fitment. But I never imagined I’d get to experience it firsthand.

Once I discussed this opportunity with my postgraduate classmates, two of them were immediately interested and joined me in volunteering. What awaited us was a powerful blend of technical skill, clinical knowledge, and human connection.

Behind Every Fit—A Story, A Purpose

At IRCDS, I witnessed the team in action—cutting, shaping, adjusting parts of the wheelchair like artisans, not technicians. Each component was carefully modified to suit the unique posture, needs, and lifestyle of the user. Watching the team at work reminded me of a weaver crafting a delicate saree—one thread, one knot, one detail at a time.

And when users sat in their custom-fit wheelchairs—tears of joy, relief, and newfound dignity followed. That moment of transformation left a deep impression on me.

Even small changes—adjusting the footrest height, modifying the cushion size, or reclining the seat slightly—could mean the difference between pain and comfort, or even between risk and safety. This experience showed me the clinical importance of proper wheelchair fitment: not just to support posture, but to prevent pressure sores, improve breathing, and ensure independence.

One Story That Stayed With Me

Among the many people we supported, one woman’s story stayed with me. She was in her 40s with a semi-reclaimed posture, and both knees fixed in mid-extension, which made conventional wheelchair fitting almost impossible. Despite these challenges, she ran a knitting business and relied on a makeshift wheelchair built by her brothers—unstable, torn, and barely usable.

On the fitment day, her hope turned into visible despair when none of the available wheelchairs suited her unique posture. I felt her pain deeply—but what moved me most was how the team responded. They didn’t give up. Instead, they sourced a semi-reclining adjustable wheelchair, carefully modified it over six hours, and tailored it to her physical needs and lifestyle.

I had the honour of assisting in that process—cutting, measuring, fine-tuning. And when she finally sat in her new chair, she cried again—but this time, with gratitude. She could now move comfortably, communicate freely, and continue her work without pain or struggle.

A Turning Point for Me

While my initial reason for joining the program was to gain hands-on training aligned with WHO guidelines for wheelchair provision, what I walked away with was much more. I came to understand the critical importance of personalized mobility solutions. It’s not about “just giving” a wheelchair—it’s about restoring dignity, functionality, and independence.

This fitment program was made possible through the support of various organisations that came together to fund and provide 40 wheelchairs to those who needed them most. The impact was immense—and knowing I played a small part in that motivated me to stay involved in future initiatives.

Moving Forward—With Purpose

I’m incredibly grateful to Motivation India and the entire team for this opportunity. Special thanks to Mr. Sudhakar, Mr. Prashant, Ms. Nandhini, and respected Regional Director Mr. Mahesh sir for encouraging me to write and reflect on this experience. Your mentorship and passion have inspired me deeply.

This experience didn’t just sharpen my clinical skills—it awakened a sense of purpose. I now feel a strong responsibility to advocate for awareness and education around mobility solutions, and to keep learning, growing, and contributing to this movement that truly changes lives.

Because in the end—every fit matters.

Let’s make a difference, together.