PHOENIX, Ariz. – Jan 7, 2016 – Vantage Mobility International (VMI), a leader in the manufacture and distribution of wheelchair accessible vehicles, and NMEDA, will deliver a free 2015 Honda Odyssey with the VMI Northstar E ramp conversion to Oakland-area resident, Cynthia Noonan, on Thurs., Jan., 14, 2016, at 11:15 a.m. at the Mobility Works store located at 1822 Embarcadero in Oakland, Calif. Noonan, who is a quadriplegic, is one of (insert) national contestants who was chosen as a Local Heroes Winner for the 2015 National Mobility Awareness Month contest.
“Everyone at VMI is honored to be a part of NMEDA’s National Mobility Awareness Month,” said Doug Eaton, president of VMI. “This annual contest recognizes home town heroes who are making a difference in their local communities. This year, we’ll help present the keys to a new Honda Odyssey with our VMI Northstar conversion to Cynthia Noonan, an inspiring person who is creating wonderful activities for people with all types of physical disabilities.”
In 2007, Cynthia Noonan was affected by the onset of Transverse Myelitis, a rare autoimmune disease that made her a C5 quadriplegic. Noonan worked at the ALS association prior to her diagnosis, which inspired her to get involved in the local community. Cynthia now serves as a board member for the Bay Area Outreach and Recreational Program where she provides sports, recreational and outdoor activities to people of all ages with all types of physical disabilities.
“Cynthia is a shining example of what the Local Heroes program is about,” said Dave Hubbard, NMEDA CEO. “We’re excited to not only help her personally, but also help her continue the outstanding work she does to support others with physical disabilities. Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of outstanding of organizations like Vantage Mobility International. We greatly appreciate their continued partnership.”
The Northstar E is VMI’s most popular ramp system that features:
- Full-cut floor and removable passenger seat that allows a wheelchair user to sit next to the driver
- A simple-to-use manual in-floor ramp that can be stowed and deployed without bending
- In-floor ramp keeps doorway clear when stowed
- In-floor ramp offers more interior space for wheelchair maneuverability
- Optional mid-row seats for increased passenger capacity and alternative seating options
- Side-entry benefits for the cost of a rear entry conversion
The 2015 Honda Odyssey Northstar conversion will be awarded to Noonan during a ceremony with friends, family and colleagues in attendance at Mobility Works in Oakland, Calif. Media who are interested in attending can schedule interviews by contacting Penny Malone at PennyM@VantageMobility.com or calling 1-855-864-8267.
