Georgia's Department of Natural Resources has teamed up with the Aimee Copeland Foundation to reveal all-terrain power wheelchairs at 11 state parks, historic sites, and wildlife centers. Aimee Copeland is an avid adventurer with a great love of the outdoors. In 2012, she was injured in a zip-lining accident and diagnosed with a rare flesh-eating bacterial infection. The only way doctors could save her life was to amputate a foot, the majority of one leg, and both hands. She still wanted to spend time enjoying the outdoors. She began the Aimee Copeland Foundation to help people with physical challenges gain more access to nature.
According to a press release, her foundation's partnership with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources gives those with disabilities a chance to get out into nature, go on adaptive hunts, fish, and explore trails.
A big part of that partnership involves the all-terrain wheelchairs. The Action Trackchairs are available to rent and feature heavy-duty treads that can roll over rocks, tall grass, steep hills, and exposed roots, plus they can even tackle shallow streams. "All Terrain Georgia is the pride and joy of Aimee Copeland Foundation," said Copeland. "It's been a long time coming, and we're honored to offer this life-changing program to the community."
The 11 Georgia parks with all-terrain track chairs are:
- Charlie Elliot Wildlife Preserve
- Panola Mountain State Park
- Fort Yargo State Park
- Cloudland Canyon State Park
- Don Carter State Park
- Hard Labor Creek State Park
- Red Top State Park
- Sweetwater Creek State Park
- Pickett's Mill State Park
- Etowah Indian Mounds
- Newman Wetlands Center
Of course, safety is the top priority. Visitors can use the chairs for hunting, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities, whereas regular wheelchairs would not be as useful. "Our mission is to provide outdoor opportunities for every Georgia citizen and visitor," said Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites Director Jeff Cown. "I am proud to partner with the Aimee Copeland Foundation to offer access to visitors with mobility or physical disabilities."
Visitors with Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, lower limb amputations, and spinal cord injuries may all use the chairs free of charge. However, reservations must be made ahead of time, and all users must have a buddy. Nonetheless, offering these opportunities up to those with disabilities is a commendable and honorable action. To find out more, go to
