Nadine was born with a diagnosis of spastic diplegia, the result of oxygen deprivation during birth (Spastic diplegia is a type of cerebral palsy that causes increased muscle tone, mainly in the legs, making movement control and coordination difficult). Although intellectually fully capable from her earliest years, she had to face social barriers and discrimination. Her parents fought tirelessly so she could attend a mainstream school instead of being directed to a special institution. These experiences shaped her fundamental life decisions. Watching her parents struggle with bureaucracy and the difficulties of obtaining assistive equipment, she decided to become a lawyer. Nadine believed that this career would help her change the reality for people with disabilities. Nadine’s personal maxim is: “Always be independent and live without relying on others.”

Career Change: When the Body Sets Limits

After completing her studies, Nadine worked in a law firm specializing in family law. However, the physical strain and professional stress led her to change her career path. She moved into the public sector, where she still serves as a department head at the youth office. In addition, she is active as a representative of people with disabilities. She knows the everyday obstacles faced by wheelchair users all too well: narrow passages, curbs, stairs, or even those “just two steps” that are insurmountable for someone with a disability. Nadine emphasizes that many of these barriers result from a lack of awareness in architectural design.

The Reach of the “Queen of Decoration” That Builds Awareness

Nadine has always lived with a love for decoration. Even as a teenager, she stood out with her aesthetic sense. As she admits, her passion for interior design is connected to her disability: “Because of limitations in choosing shoes, I was never interested in fashion, and decorating interiors became my hobby. My friends jokingly call me the ‘Queen of Deco,’ because instead of buying shoes or clothes, I choose home decorations.” Nadine’s favorite style is cozy, somewhat modern, with a rustic touch. She decorates her home according to the seasons. In larger projects, she is supported by her husband Stephan, who Nadine describes as the “creative, craft-oriented part” of their duo. Her Instagram profile nadines_landhaustraum is followed by more than 135,000 people. While followers come for inspiration, they stay to also learn about the everyday life of a wheelchair user.

PAWS – When Dreams Start Moving

A turning point in Nadine’s life was discovering the PAWS attachment from Rehasense – an electric wheelchair add-on. Inspired by another influencer, Svenia, who showcased her trips through forests, meadows, and trails, Nadine thought: “This is amazing, it gives so much freedom. I want this!” And she made that wish come true.

PAWS transformed her daily life:

• Overcoming barriers: Uneven surfaces, potholes, or curbs are no longer a problem. Nadine moves safely without fear of tipping over.
• Unlimited, independent activity: She can go out alone with her dog Sally, without fear or restrictions.
• Shared moments in nature: At last, she can fulfill her dream of outings with her husband Stephan and their two daughters, both near and far. “Thanks to PAWS, in May we were able to take wonderful bike trips in the Netherlands through beautiful surroundings. We rode along the embankment by the water. Before, we only traveled here by car,” Nadine recalls.
• From obstacles to joyful adventure: At the Hurricane Festival in Scheeßel in June, the PAWS attachment allowed her to move effortlessly across very difficult terrain. “It was hot. We were on an uneven, bumpy field. I used to be there only with my regular wheelchair. It was a nightmare. I kept getting stuck and couldn’t move forward. But when I added PAWS to my wheelchair this year, the effect was simply brilliant. I drove across as if on a smooth table. I had real fun!” the lawyer remembers.
• In summary, PAWS enables Nadine to lead a normal life and enjoy independence without being hindered by obstacles.

Dreams and Normality Should Have No Barriers

Professionally and personally, Nadine feels fulfilled. Her great dream is to travel to the USA for her silver wedding anniversary in three and a half years. Her message to people who are just learning to live with a disability: “You have to be positive and live life to the fullest.” She appeals to non-disabled people not to fear contact with those with disabilities: “Let’s treat each other normally. Only through openness and education can we build acceptance.”