Ep 2. 30 Days in a Wheelchair

In season 3 episode 2 of the show 30 Days, titled "30 Days in a Wheelchair," viewers are introduced to an eye-opening experience. The episode follows the life of able-bodied, 26-year-old Englishman, David Arnold, who takes on the challenge of living in a wheelchair for 30 days.

David takes on this challenge to try to understand the difficulties faced by those who rely on wheelchairs for their independence and mobility. He is accompanied by Will Pike, a wheelchair user who is also his mentor in navigating the world while in a wheelchair.

David's journey is documented as he learns to live in a wheelchair. He starts with the basics such as getting dressed, going to the bathroom, and moving around in the wheelchair. He attends a wheelchair basketball game and meets some of the players. He also learns about the challenges of travelling in public transport, and he visits a university campus to learn about accessibility.

Throughout his journey, David faces several challenges, both physical and emotional. He realizes how difficult it is to navigate in a wheelchair, especially in environments that are not built with accessibility in mind. He also experiences the stigma and barriers that wheelchairs users face daily, such as attitudes and societal perceptions about disability.

The episode delves into the struggles that those in wheelchairs face beyond just mobility. It explores the emotional toll of being dependent on others, facing discrimination, and limited opportunities for independence. David begins to understand and empathize with those who rely on wheelchairs, and his journey brings to light the difficulties that they face.

The episode also highlights the need for creating more accessible environments. David visits a brand-new shopping center and learns how the architects took accessibility into consideration while planning the building, creating proper ramps, elevators, toilets, and spacious walkways. In contrast, the episode showcases spaces that do not follow these standards, revealing the stark contrast of the ease and accessibility that a designed wheelchair-friendly space can provide.

Throughout the episode, David's experiences are shown through his perspective and the perspectives of those around him. Interviews with other wheelchair users and their caregivers provide different viewpoints and add to the depth of the episode. They shed light on the challenges they face daily, facing barriers in employment, entrepreneurship, and in living a full life.

The episode concludes with David's reflection and gratefulness for this life-changing experience. He gained a better understanding of the wheelchair needs, increased his empathy, and developed a sense of gratitude for his own life without these challenges.

30 Days in a Wheelchair is an eye-opening episode that raises awareness of the challenges and barriers that people in wheelchairs face daily. It shows how creating accessible environments can make a major difference in enabling wheelchair users in becoming more independent. It's a show that everyone should watch to understand the plight of the less fortunate and to empathize with their struggles.