Just a couple of years after finishing four years of photography school, the accident happened (december 1995). Leaving me with a very high spinal cord injury. I can only move my head, and a bit of my shoulders. Is it still possible to be a photographer? That was one of many questions. First reaction was "of course not", because I could not hold and control the camera with my hands. But that is just the tip of the iceberg, as photography is about way more than having a camera and pusing its buttons.

Because of a very high spinal cord injury, I'm almost completely paralyzed, can only move my head. When in my wheelchair, I can work with a head controlled computer in my living room. But I'm in bed most of the time: at night, during the care, and sometimes I have to stay in bed for days or even weeks. I need access to a computer 24/7, day ánd night. Big question was "how can I get computer access in bed while lying flat on my back??" There was no solution available (1997).

The reason why I designed this cushion, is because I didn’t like any of the cushions that were on the market these days. They gave me red skin easily. My body is almost completely paralyzed, so I don’t move, and I’m quite tall, thus my risk of getting pressure wounds is very high. For some 5 years I tried everything I could think of, you name it and I have considered it. The final design is quite simple to make, not easy but very doable. I have been sitting on it for about 15 years now, which makes me the living proof that it works!