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MARILYN HAMILTON
QUICKIE WHEELCHAIR FOUNDER
Marilyn Hamilton has been athletic and energetic since childhood, even after a 1978 hang gliding accident left her a paraplegic.
Dismayed by the prospect of living her life in a cumbersome 50-pound wheelchair, Marilyn channeled her energies into designing a lightweight, adjustable chair with a modular frame, responsive performance and a fun personality. The Quickie was born, and immediately revolutionized the wheelchair industry.
Marilyn co-founded Motion Designs in 1979 and began manufacturing the Quickie. In 1986, the company was purchased by Sunrise Medical, where Marilyn serves as Vice President of Global Strategic Planning.
Marilyn has touched millions of lives, and her story has appeared in books, magazines and national news programs including “60 Minutes.” She was named California Business Woman of the Year and is a member of the California Governor’s Hall of Fame for People with Disabilities.
She also founded WOW (Winners on Wheels) – a scouting program for disabled children. An award-winning skier and tennis player, Marilyn has inspired a generation of wheelchair athletes. In fact, her story and tennis chair were included in the Smithsonian collection, and are now touring the country.
Marilyn Hamilton has given the world more than just a revolutionary wheelchair. She has given inspiration, encouragement and hope
