An Unforgettable Charleston Adventure

Flossmoor resident Cynequa Smith recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to Charleston, South Carolina, thanks to the Team Gleason Adventure Program.

My Team Gleason Adventure to Charleston was amazing. I was a bit apprehensive because the Batmobile (my Quantum power wheelchair) had never flown before. Southwest Airlines was very accommodating to the Batmobile and me. I rode the Batmobile up to the entrance of the airplane and from there, Southwest Airlines staff transported me to the first-row seat. The Batmobile was stowed underneath the plane, and my caregiver and family were seated next to and behind me.

We were on our way to the beautiful city of Charleston, South Carolina, and the Batmobile received its first flying wings. Upon arriving, the Batmobile was brought to me. Now, the question at hand was, where is the mobility van? The mobility van was parked in valet parking at the airport, waiting and ready for us. Easy Peasy!

On the way to the hotel, we took the opportunity to drive through Charleston’s Historic Downtown area, soaking in its unique and beautiful architecture. We headed to Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens, where there is so much African American history. The tour guide introduced us and thanked Team Gleason for making our trip possible. At a different presentation, we were introduced again, and the facilitator gave a “shout out to Team Gleason.” A young lady shared with my daughter, Ambrosia, that her brother had passed from ALS and asked for more information on the foundation.

We then climbed on a big wagon, which was handicapped accessible, with a John Deere tractor and toured the land. The slaves’ quarters tour was emotional. I was so happy to be able to share this piece of my ancestry with my family, especially my young granddaughter and grandson.

The next day, we were off to Folly Beach. I wasn’t able to run my toes through the sand and Atlantic Ocean, but I was able to have a keen sense of serenity and peace knowing I was creating memories with my grandchildren, whom at one point I did not think I would live long enough for them to remember me. I just laid out, reclined in the Batmobile, talked and laughed with people, shared my story, challenges, and triumphs, and refereed disputes between my 4- and 7-year-old grandchildren.

Thank you, Team Gleason, for providing me with this amazing opportunity to experience a part of my ancestry while creating memories with my family. Also, thank you Southwest Airlines for accommodating my needs and taking care of the Batmobile. Lastly, thank you Embassy Suites for reaching out to me and listening to my concerns regarding accommodating the special needs of your patrons.

About the Team Gleason Adventure Program

Team Gleason provides and documents extraordinary life adventures for individuals with ALS. These adventures not only inspire but also raise public awareness by showcasing the experiences. From excursions to destinations around the world, to parties with family and friends, to trips to major events like the Super Bowl or the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, Team Gleason Adventures create lasting and often life-changing memories for individuals and families living with ALS. For more information, please visit teamgleason.org.