Hi, my name is Kaelee, and I share what it’s like navigating chronic illness, mobility aids, and everyday life “in the wild.” Welcome and feel free to poke around!
Hi!
If you’re here, you probably saw my wheelchair setup out in the wild and were curious about it.
I use a rigid wheelchair with a front power attachment called the Rio Mobility Firefly 2.5. It essentially turns my chair into a small, powered scooter; giving me more range, speed, and independence while still keeping the benefits of a manual chair.
A front-mounted power assist attachment
Connects to most rigid wheelchairs (like my TiLite)
Lifts the front casters and creates a stable 3-wheel setup
Controlled with a handlebar + throttle system
Key Specs
Top speed: ~12 mph
Range: Up to ~16 miles per charge
Multiple speed modes: for indoor/outdoor control
Motorized front wheel: 16”
It’s fast when you want it to be, but easy to slow down for tighter or indoor spaces.
Battery & Travel
Removable lithium battery
Can be detached in seconds
Easier to charge without moving the whole unit
Much more manageable for air travel and transport
This is one of the biggest reasons I chose this setup.
Attachment & Ease of Use
Quick clamp-style attachment system
Attaches to the front frame of a rigid chair
Lifts front casters slightly off the ground
Can be attached/detached independently with practice
Once you get used to it, it becomes part of your routine.
Weight & Size (Approximate)
Unit weight: ~27 lbs
Battery: ~6 lbs
Front wheel: 16”
Adds roughly 2–3 feet of length when attached
I usually handle it in parts (battery off first), which makes it more manageable.
Parts, Repairs, Cost, and Insurance
One of the biggest benefits of the Firefly is that it is built to last.
- Individual parts are available and replaceable
- Components can be repaired instead of replacing the full unit
- Accessories and upgrades are available through the manufacturer
For purchasing:
- The Firefly is often covered by insurance with proper documentation
- The best path is typically working through a physical therapist and a mobility equipment dealer
- This gives you the best chance of insurance coverage
- It can also help you get the best pricing and proper fitting
- It is also possible to purchase directly from Rio Mobility
- Replacement parts and accessories can be ordered directly from their website
If you are considering this setup, it is worth exploring both insurance and direct purchase options.
Why I Use This Setup
This setup allows me to:
- Go farther without exhausting myself
- Keep up with people and activities I care about
- Navigate more environments with confidence
- Adjust based on how I am feeling day to day
It gives me flexibility in a way that a fully manual or fully powered option alone would not.
