Sophia’s death is already one child too many.

Remember sophia...​​

Sophia's Gift © 2014

Sophia Elise Heyd was born with Cerebral Palsy as well as other special needs. She was the light of her family's life, and had a rich and happy childhood. Like many special needs children, Sophia required the use of a pediatric wheelchair for both mobility and safety. Tragically, Sophia died as a result of an injury sustained while she was sitting in the perceived safety of her wheelchair. 

Just four days after Sophia’s sixth birthday, she was watching her favorite TV show in her living room while sitting in her wheelchair. Sophia loosened her lap belt, slid down in her chair to where the lap belt prevented her from breathing, and she asphyxiated.

Remember Sophia...

If we remember what happened to Sophia, perhaps we can prevent this tragedy from devastating another family.

The FDA classifies wheelchairs that are pushed by the caregiver as a “Class I Medical Device”. This Class I classification is the same designation that items like elastic bandages and examination gloves receive. The FDA outlines that Class I Medical Devices “are not intended to be of importance in preventing impairment to human life; and may not present a potential unreasonable risk of illness or injury”. Sophia died as a result of her Class I wheelchair. We have been working to have wheelchairs reclassified as a Class II medical device. 

​Unfortunately, we now realize this will not make every wheelchair safer. Know the ABC's in regards to wheelchair safety.