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Since I have been home (polio '48), I've designed and have made several pieces of equipment to help me become more independent. I had difficulty with my breathing for a year, but now it is OK except when the humidity is high or real warm. My legs are completely out, my trunk and arms are weak.

I now see many improvements in my equipment design which I would like to make as soon as I get enough money. One of these that I use is a lift of my own design to get into and out of a regular car. (See picture 1) I use a Simmons Counter balance bed so I can sit up and lay down when I wish. I also use large steering wheels on the indoor lift that carry me from the bed to the wheel chair.

My outdoor elevator is also "homemade", but now I would like to sell it and remake the back-yard. This elevator has been out in the weather for seven years and deteriorated very little. It certainly is easier than a ramp in getting to the car or yard. It raises and lowers at one inch per second and is powered by a 1/6 horsepower motor. Here we used a heavy gauge steel for the platform; however, plywood might be better but would not stand the weather as well.

I also have a little auto-elevator-run-about. It transports person, chair, all and elevates 3 1/2 feet for curb and porch landings. I intended to use this car in my insurance and advertising work before my recent surgery. I now sell match cover advertising.

I had two sisters come down with polio three weeks before I did and two other sisters, one a R.N. I also have a brother who is a Missionary in India. My Dad helped get the things together and I would be glad to help anyone with the knowledge I gained from experimentation.