Her Wheelchair Accessible Camper Van | Paralympian's Tiny Home on Wheels

Her Social Media Links:
Her KZbin - ‪@Keepinitwheel306‬
Her Instagram - / keepinitwheel306
Interested In Being Featured On The Channel? : bit.ly/Tour-Application
VIDEO DESCRIPTION:
Join Lisa Franks, a three-time Paralympian and now avid van lifer, as she invites us into her world of resilience and innovation. Living with a spinal cord injury from the age of 14, Lisa transformed her challenges into triumphs, first by dominating wheelchair sports, and now by conquering life on the road in her fully customized, wheelchair-accessible camper van.
🚐 Welcome to Her Wheelchair Accessible Camper Van Tour
About This Video:
In this inspiring tour, Lisa Franks, a celebrated wheelchair athlete who represented Canada at three Paralympic Games, shares how she has meticulously designed her Ford Transit high-roof van to cater to her needs while embodying the comforts of home. Despite her spinal cord injury, Lisa's adventurous spirit thrives as she navigates van life with remarkable adaptability and creative solutions.
Van Features Highlighted:
Custom Lowered Cabinets: Designed for easy access, these include a pull-down shelf for heavy items like canned goods, enabling independence and convenience.
Recessed Drawer Handles: Chosen to prevent catching on wheelchair spokes, enhancing mobility within the space.
Modified Living Area: Spacious enough to allow full rotation of a wheelchair, with added flooring to cover the van step, improving accessibility.
Innovative Kitchen Setup: Includes a pull-out cooktop and chopping block to allow close access from a wheelchair, making cooking an enjoyable, hassle-free experience.
Dual-Access Storage Shelf: Accessible from inside and outside the van, optimizing storage for frequently used items like jackets, tools, and books without the need to rearrange everything.
Convertible Bench Design: Initially housing a porta potty, now remodeled to include a collapsible bucket under a toilet seat cut-out, reflecting Lisa’s practical adjustments for boondocking.
Living Adaptations:
Remote-Controlled Amenities: From lights to fans, all are adjusted via remote, showcasing the high level of thought placed into every detail of the van’s design to ensure it meets her mobility needs.
Outdoor Accessibility Innovations: Features like the super arm wheelchair lift, which occupies minimal space, and a custom outdoor table enhance the functionality of the van without compromising on aesthetics or practicality.
Personal Reflections:
Lisa shares her journey from the despair of living with chronic pain and depression to rediscovering joy through van life. This transformation was catalyzed by her return to the outdoors, rekindling the deep connection with nature that she cherished in her youth.
Call to Action:
For those inspired by Lisa’s story or looking to explore more about adaptable van living, she invites viewers to follow her adventures on KZbin and Instagram at "Keeping It Wheel 306," where she continues to share her life, tips, and modifications that facilitate an active, fulfilling lifestyle despite physical limitations.
Closing Thoughts:
Lisa’s van is not just a means of transportation; it's a mobile manifestation of her resilience and a tool that empowers her to continue exploring the world on her terms. She encourages everyone, regardless of circumstance, to pursue what brings them joy and fulfillment.
#vanlife #adaptivesports #paralympian #outdooradventures #campertour #vanbuild #lifeonwheels
Shot and Edited by - / sagetraveling
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[@ricksmith7631]

I thought you looked familiar. I watched you on tv when you broke the wr. Glad to see how you moved on with life. Your build is badass and i can see the engineering in it. I'm vertically challenged, not from an injury but from low headroom and I love how you made use of the lower real estate in the van, gave me a few ideas but my build is close to complete so maybe in future builds. The outside table rocks and the cooktop is boss, I might try to work that in the current build or build 2.0. I'm Canadian and between mosquitos that can carry you off or blackflies that will eat you alive, I lived in northern Ontario, so that was my summer. The bug screen is definitely going in soon. Anyhow, I love your build and am glad to see you're still pushing limits in life and living it. Take Care.

[@dawnsnyder216]

What a inspiration to many who are disabled. Love your van build and all the capabilities of your independence.

[@robinsouth8555]

I think she should be a motivational speaker, great job!

[@johnhuff393]

You're an inspiration to everyone. Thanks for sharing your story and van.😎

[@joeythenomad]

Fantastic use of just a belt to keep that table stable and a sweet reminder of your dad!

[@WhizzyWheelz]

I’m a full time wheelchair user from the UK who was also a racer when I was younger (although not a Paralympic level). I have dreamed of van life for a few years but as yet have not pulled the trigger on it. I just wanted to say that the desk actuator as a makeshift left is genius. I am going to “borrow” that idea when the time comes. Thank you for reassuring me and others that van life can be done regardless of physical ability. I have always felt it could be but its nice to feel that it is being done. And one a personal note its good to see a kindred spirit is out in in the world. Safe and happy adventures.

[@ReasonablySpeaking9808]

You are FANTASTIC! you go, girl!!!

[@marybates2201]

As a disabled woman, this lady and all her adjustments has really inspired me. Thank you x

[@HurricaneHeather]

Thank you for this video today. I have damage to my spinal cord due to MS. It's good to see differently abled people doing what you're doing. I'm hoping disability comes through while I'm still able to walk so I can have my own van life.

[@joeythenomad]

So smart making everything accessible and still stylish, love the innovation with the folding cooktop space!

[@law81669]

I say "Hats Off To You" very well done. 💪🙂👍

[@MeganDeeMarie]

Everything about this build is so smart and well planned. Love it

[@FrenchyStitchy]

Cannot like enough!! What an amazing life & story. My dad also has a spinal cord injury and we continued to take him on camping trips for years. Thank you for all the cool features, tips & tricks.

[@koalaed]

Fantastic! I’ve been asking around for anyone who lives in a van with any disability - and here we are! Thank you for posting. Definitely an inspiration 🙏💖💕

[@robertbutterworth55]

You are a beast. Love how you have overcome so many obstacles in life. Much respect. ❤️❤️

[@divinecomedy0]

Thank you for sharing your story and home…tailor-made to be not only beautiful, but practical and flexible to your needs. Happy trails and adventures to you as you explore many places. I love that you have you dad’s belt there at the entrance to your home on no wheels. Reminds you of his presence daily.

[@tammyjantzen9004]

Kudos to you! You go girl! Love the belt. Such an awesome reminder of your Dad.

[@user-js4xl9nv8r]

What courage it takes to live the life you have chosen. As a fellow Canadian, living in Ontario, I am so proud of your sporting accomplishments. Congrats. I wish you health, happiness and fun travels. God Bless. Heather 🇨🇦❤

[@Debba521]

Wow! The camper is built out so thoughtfully and I'm amazed how functional it is. I love the rack that can be pulled down from the upper cabinet! I'm short and high places are a constant aggravation. The lifts Lisa has in her van are really impressive too. To say that this lovely woman is an inspiration is hardly adequate to describe her amazing self. Thoroughly enjoyed the tour and hearing about Lisa's life, thanks!

[@bishopkinlyside8477]

Hi Lisa, thank you for sharing. I’m another one in a wheelchair after losing a leg above the knee. I just absolutely love your van I’m looking forward to doing the same kind of thing here in Australia in hopefully shortly , keep up the good work love the video Cliff from Australia

[@maryedmo7798]

What a remarkable woman! God bless you!

[@cynthiachambers4105]

This Beautiful Queen Woman is a Inspiration to Me, Because You can do anything if You put Your Mind into it. Her Beautiful Van w/All the attachment to take care of Her equipments. Congratulations on Your Wins 🏆 and just knowing You will go FAR. Thanks for Sharing and Prayers on Your Adventures Enjoyed and Blessings 🙏 ♥️🥰😇 From Pennsylvania,USA

[@tammycruz8189]

What a Wonderful Woman. Safe Travels Always. God Bless U Always 🙏 ❤️.

[@dennisd7451]

Ty for opening viewers eyes😊

[@suezaple4950]

what an inspiration you are to other individuals that may be wheelchair bound and had planned to do this until their mishap , a great design with everything being accessible Including an emergency use toilet very cool. , plenty of storage is a bonus love what you have accomplished that is some ingenious planning on your part . Your an amazing positive individual and did not let your injury get in the away of the life you love . enjoy your new life many blessing to you. Watching from London On. Canada.

[@dsquared1950]

She is not wheelchair bound… she is a wheelchair user. I know “bound “ is a common term but it’s not accurate.

[@suezaple4950]

what I meant by wheelchair bound is she cant walk .. Correct Thus being an inspiration to others that cant walk

[@rhondadorey1723]

So glad to see your van adventures. I remember you from your Olympic triumphs and I'm a huge fan. Much luck in all your future endeavours . 😊💗🇨🇦

[@lazyassian]

This is incredible. What an amazing story of overcoming challenges and living life unconventionally. Thank you!

[@mon6745]

I love this! More of accessible tiny homes please 😊❤. She's so cool

[@rogertemple7193]

This is definitely a specially made tiny house on wheels for Lisa to live and travel around in she is an inspirational person thank you and have a beautiful week Lisa.🇺🇲🚐🚌🇺🇲

[@denisebd1000]

Very inspirational testimony and I love the fact that God has been good to you through all of your challenges and have you what you heart desires! Thanks for sharing! God Bless!

[@TraderChick]

What an awesome idea for the pull down shelf

[@johntossing624]

That’s it, I’m following this cool chicks channel!

[@LindaYoshi]

Love this build! Looks like she put her engineering backgroud to use! Love how powerful and strong she is.

[@meridethhendry5733]

Wonderful!

[@peritonitida8269]

Truly admirable

[@sugallat]

genius girl, so impressive

[@doughalldorson8663]

Saskatchewan strong ,we love it here also Very inspirational Enjoy your travels 😄🌴

[@tazcaddy]

she is 'living' more than most who are just merely surviving!

[@helenknefley9367]

You are an amazing woman and an inspiration to many.❤

[@theroaminggnomad]

Thanks for the bench Idea it's great!!! Also my current challenge. You truly say "I can" when others might say, "how??" "No way, not you". I have the same Spirit as you, despite the odds, despite the number of unbelievers. It's great that you have a community of like-minded people to share life with.

[@lilyLily1824]

She’s amazing!

[@joanneganon7157]

Your amazing,what drive! I love your build 👍. Happy Trails 🎉. JO JO IN VT 💞

[@sharonoldham4374]

Like the layout of your van. Extremely functional. Great job.

[@lindasteller]

Wow. You are an amazing woman. I'll be moving into a van this summer and everyone tells me I'm so brave. Well, not by half compared to you. You GO girl! 🎉 Much respect. ❤

[@jenniehaxton1240]

Inspirational woman in an amazing adapted van

[@orawancarlile6192]

WOW! You are so amazing!

[@rosalieogden479]

What an inspiration on so very many levels!!! WOW!!! ❤❤❤

[@user-re5do7uv1k]

Вы сильная духом,красивая женщина🙏😊Вы молодец🫴♥️😊

[@jackiemobley8529]

Amazing!!

[@dakotacoren6936]

So many great ideas!

[@hdtravel1]

You rock and I love your tiny home on wheels !! Enjoy exploring !!

[@joannagraf7645]

Just wow

[@tnopsclark6179]

This is fantastic to see! It gives me hope that I could still do Vanlife. Now I just have to find money to set up my van.

[@linhdasagen6498]

She is incredible!!!

[@clair9283]

Beautiful inspirational lady ❤

[@JPA34698]

This is amazing. So inspiring!!!!

[@BenjamintheTortoise]

She's incredible!! Wishing you a fun and beautiful journey ahead! Much love 💕😊

[@Thehonestruth]

What a great lady, I love the bed lift so clever!!

[@leed206]

Way to go. ex polio(at 5) now late 70's. Never let anything stop you, just work out a way.

[@jennadimuccio4787]

I love the idea of the pull out cook top. I'm going to use that.

[@alphonsinelepitre1992]

I am so happy and touched to see that you can do all this ! This is awesome !

[@rebeccakaminski8967]

You are a amazing women that lives life to the fullest. I love your camping van its awesome how u have it set up.thank u for sharing with us.

[@Rebeka1589]

You are so incredible, this was my face 🫢seeing all the sports you do and everything you’ve accomplished already. I loved your Dads belt, I’m sure he’s coming along on your adventures and everything is set up perfectly. I’ve never seen that kind of a system Instead of a ramp every thing was so cool even the inside shower. Parts of the video made me laugh there was a great sense of humor and light hearted ness loved it 🤍💐

[@bradthompson9400]

Super cool! And the build is awesome as well. Thanks for sharing.

[@AzzasBuildsandadventures]

Wow wot a awsom van you have. You have some genius modifications. It so wonderful to see.

[@GenuinelyGiGi]

Some of her ideas are good even for people who are not physically restricted. For example, the recessed draw handles… that would be helpful for me because I would hate to hit my hips on the drawer pulls or get things caught on them

[@marthamaeda8257]

What an amazing women! Love your courageous mind set❤❤

[@pearljamin]

Just wonderful!

[@elikamartinez]

thank you for being an inspiration❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@aquariusblu]

Absolutely amazing!!! 🥰 -❤️from BC

[@ladybungg4226]

🤩!

[@tazcaddy]

seriously clever!

[@a.d.morton4624]

❤😍WOW

[@letsgetdoing]

She's a fucking BOSS!!!! Salute!

[@annfashaw9270]

Wow 🤩 u are amazing! And great build also! So it’s the high roof but what’s the wheel base ??

[@ivy_1990]

No excuses 💪😎🌞✨🔥

[@SherylKatz]

Love your build!! Do you have any type of oven?? Can you give so.e safety tips?? Also do you have a 4 season van? Limitations are going to get more and more so setting up ahead will make it doable as needed. Thanks!!

[@TinyHomeTours]

Here's a link to Lisa's IG if you'd like to reach out directly for more info: instagram.com/keepinitwheel306/ :)

[@kimberlovingcare8363]

Way to go! You sure did make it difficult! For me to continue with my many excuses, and just do it. Fear is awful! And holding me back! I’m an African American female, and I know that there are more and more black women doing it. I just really fear being targeted and I feel because of my skin color! Will put me in a much higher! Of a risk! More than that of which us females already have to worry about consider and be cautious!

[@user-qb8ip2jj9z]

👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍❤❤❤

[@Somerann]

You are a baddass!

[@barnyardbonez]

2 THINGS. WHERE DID YOU GET THE HAND CONTROLS AND THE SUPERARM LIFT? THANKS,

[@thiabrabson2533]

😇💯🤩❣️

[@shanawilson8541]

How about a lift for the kayak