Ada’s world on the move: Celebrating International Wheelchair Day
Mar 1, 2026
Powered mobility has had a profound impact for Ada, with the Wizzybug opening up a whole new world and boosting her confidence immeasurably.
Ada is two and a half years old and full of energy. She loves singing, dancing, drawing, and playing chasey with her older siblings, Max and Zoe.
As her mum Bec explains, “Ada lives with a genetic muscle disorder…that causes muscle weakness which, at this stage, prevents her from moving around independently.”
Discovering ‘On the Move’
Bec and her family were searching for ways to support Ada’s development and independence when they discovered Yooralla’s ‘On the Move’ program.
‘On the Move’ is a unique program supporting young children (under the age of 5 years) to access powered mobility devices such as the Wizzybug to enable them to independently explore their environments and participate in their community.
“We learned about Yooralla’s ‘On the Move’ program through the Neuromuscular Clinic at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH),” Bec said.
“Our physiotherapist, Chiara, showed us a video of a young boy under two years old using [a Wizzybug], and we were blown away.”
A smooth and supportive process
“We were fortunate to have NDIS funding already available to cover the rental immediately… we were surprised by how quickly a Wizzybug became available for hire,” Bec said.
“Even though Ada was admitted to the RCH when our appointment was scheduled, the Yooralla team was incredibly accommodating and brought the Wizzybug to the ward to complete the assessment, setup, and collection with the Yooralla Occupational Therapist and Physiotherapist,” she said.
Ongoing support has also been key to Ada’s success.
“The team has been readily available for any questions,” Bec says.
“We reached out for additional support to build Ada’s confidence and for troubleshooting, which included adding extra postural support pieces and a tray table.”
Building confidence and inclusion
For Bec, seeing Ada in her Wizzybug for the first time was unforgettable.
“It has been so exciting to see Ada in her Wizzybug,” she says.
“She mastered driving, steering, and even reverse parking very quickly. When we are out in the community, people are always in awe of her driving abilities, and it never fails to bring a smile to their faces.”
Most importantly, the impact on Ada herself has been profound.
“The Wizzybug has opened up a whole new world for Ada,” Bec says.
“The increase in mobility has massively boosted her confidence; she has gone from being very shy to proudly driving around and singing while she explores.”
“Most importantly, [the Wizzybug] allows her to feel included. She can now join in and chase her siblings and friends when they are on their bikes or scooters.”
Independence, and a cheeky streak!
With mobility has come independence, and a cheeky streak.
“The Wizzybug has given Ada true independence, allowing her to make choices and take risks,” Bec says.
“It has allowed her to be seen as a toddler rather than a ‘baby’ and has certainly brought out her cheeky side. She loves to ‘run away’ or pretend to run us over!”
“At the park, other children are often curious and ask for a turn or follow behind her in a game of follow the leader,” Bec said.
Celebrating International Wheelchair Day
This International Wheelchair Day, we celebrate Ada, and every child discovering confidence, independence and joy through mobility.
Each year on 1 March, International Wheelchair Day recognises the positive impact wheelchairs have on the lives of millions of people worldwide, while raising awareness about access, inclusion and mobility rights.
For families like Ada’s, it is a powerful reminder of how early access to mobility can open up a world of opportunity.
To learn more about how Yooralla supports children and families through powered mobility, visit Yooralla’s ‘On the Move’ program.