In a world where independence and dignity hold immense significance, providing accessible spaces for individuals with physical challenges becomes imperative. Today, we unveil the remarkable transformation of Sam’s bathroom, a testament to the power of thoughtful design and unwavering compassion of his family. Join us as we embark on a journey through this inspiring renovation, showcasing how a bathroom can be transformed into a sanctuary of comfort and accessibility for Sam, a very positive and inspiring young man living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Prior to the renovation, Sam’s bathroom presented numerous obstacles that hindered his ability to perform daily tasks with ease. The narrow doorway and conventional shower posed significant safety and access challenges, requiring him to travel to his grandparent’s house multiple times a week to bathe. Sam also had difficulty in accessing the sink appropriately.  Recognizing the urgency of creating a more accessible space, Sam’s family reached out to our team of experienced designers and contractors, determined to create a bathroom that would work well for Sam’s needs. Our primary goal was to design a bathroom that seamlessly accommodated Sam’s wheelchair, ensuring effortless movement and ease of use. We carefully measured the dimensions of his wheelchair with incorporation of his physical capabilities and planned every aspect of the bathroom to optimize accessibility. From the wider doorway to the deeper roll-in shower with grab bars and shower system to the depth and height of the vanity to the height of the mirror and position of the light switches, every element was meticulously designed to provide Sam with maximum comfort and safety. The bathroom underwent a remarkable transformation, showcasing a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics. The once-narrow doorway now welcomes Sam’s wheelchair with ample space to maneuver. The conventional shower was replaced with a spacious roll-in shower, and strategically placed grab bars, ensuring a safe and highly functional bathing experience. To further enhance Sam’s independence, we installed a proximity faucet, which comes on automatically when his hands are close to it. This feature, combined with easy temperature and flow controls, offers Sam greater convenience and control over his hand-washing experience. The vanity was made shorter and less deep to accommodate the height for his reach and wheelchair accessibility. The countertop edges were also rounded to prevent a sharp edge when he reaches out to wash his hands. The mirror was strategically positioned lower, allowing Sam to see himself clearly while seated. Extra niche space was thoughtfully incorporated to accommodate essential toiletries and personal care items, keeping them within easy reach. The bathroom floor was meticulously waterproofed, complete with a water-resistant strip beneath the baseboards and vanity, ensuring long-lasting durability. Non-slip tiles were carefully selected to provide a secure and stable surface for Sam and his caretakers.  Additionally, a lifetime-warranted waterproof system was installed behind the shower tile and floor to provide ease of mind for years to come. Every detail of the bathroom was carefully considered to optimize Sam’s comfort and user experience. Light switches were relocated to lower, more accessible positions near the door, ensuring effortless control of the bathroom’s lighting. Sam’s special wheelchair fits in the shower with room for his caretakers to assist, and the shower is deeper to help prevent splatter from getting into the rest of the bathroom. The drain was strategically placed for the wheelchair with an optimized slope and offers the best drainage capability. A wand sprayer was thoughtfully installed, providing Sam’s caretakers with a convenient tool to assist with bathing and personal care. We worked diligently to select the best shower wand with the right functionality, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable bathing experience for Sam.  A carefully selected bidet seat was also installed that provides ease of personal hygiene and convenience. The completed bathroom is a testament to the transformative power of empathetic design. Sam can now navigate his bathroom with ease, which is advantageous in performing daily tasks. Witnessing Sam’s newfound experience is a priceless reward for our team, reiterating the profound impact that accessible design can have on individuals’ lives. This was only possible due to the love and dedication of Sam’s parents to find a solution and provide input and direction on the details that would work best for Sam.  Having the privilege to meet his wonderful grandparents, making this change is bittersweet for them as they will miss the frequent visits from him, however, they are very happy for Sam. Sam’s family shared their involvement in activities with the Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy foundation, including their annual event called Sam’s Night, aimed at raising awareness and funds for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy research. The latest Sam’s Night event in 2023 raised over $1,400,000, contributing significantly to the ongoing efforts to advance research and support for individuals like Sam. For more information about their initiatives and how you can get involved, you can visit the campaign page here: Sam’s Night 2023 – Campaign. Here at DreamMaker, we believe in community support and advocacy to improve the lives of all individuals and their needs.

BEFORE – Not wheelchair accessible