Eric LeGrand’s life took a dramatic turn on October 16, 2010. Playing for Rutgers University against the Army Black Knights at MetLife Stadium, Eric suffered a spinal cord injury that changed his life forever. “I got opened up to a whole world I had no idea about,” Eric recalls. The promising football player was suddenly thrust into a community of individuals with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities—a world where mobility and independence were daily challenges.
Despite his injury, Eric’s spirit remained unbroken. He was only 20 years old at the time with his whole life ahead of him, and he was determined to make the most of it. A critical part of that journey involved mobility solutions that allowed Eric to reclaim his independence and continue pursuing his dreams, off the field.
A Journey Through Mobility
Eric is currently on his third mobility van in 14 years. “I started off with a Volkswagen Routan, then I went to the Chrysler Town & Country, and now I have a Chrysler Pacifica,” he shares. These vans have been more than just vehicles for Eric; they’ve been essential tools in his daily life, allowing him to travel for physical therapy, business and personal engagements.
His first van saw heavy use as Eric traveled long distances for physical therapy. He quickly realized that the demands of his new lifestyle required a more robust solution, so he upgraded to the Chrysler Town & Country. “I had it blacked out—black rims and everything, all custom,” he recalls fondly. Now, with his new Chrysler Pacifica from MobilityWorks, Eric continues to stay on the move, balancing a busy schedule that takes him all over New Jersey.
Entrepreneurship and Mobility
Eric’s entrepreneurial spirit has flourished since his injury. “Being an entrepreneur has opened up a lot of doors for me to be in a lot of different places at different times, and having a van is just perfect.” he says. His mobility van plays a crucial role in this, allowing him to navigate a schedule filled with business meetings and speaking engagements.
One of Eric’s proudest ventures is his podcast, A Cup of bELieve. “For years, people asked me to start a podcast…I wanted to get into podcasting, to tell other peoples’ stories,” Eric explains. Season one was a success, and as he prepared for season two, he knew he wanted a sponsor that was close to his heart. MobilityWorks was the perfect fit. “That partnership has been great,” Eric says. The collaboration has allowed him to continue sharing inspiring stories and connecting with his audience.
Finding the Right Fit at MobilityWorks
Eric’s relationship with MobilityWorks has been pivotal in his journey. “It was a nice process working with MobilityWorks to get the van,” he says. Despite offers from other companies, Eric chose MobilityWorks for its family atmosphere and exceptional service. “At the end of the day, I saw MobilityWorks and what they were offering me…whatever I need, if I need something, they’re there for me.”
Eric’s Chrysler Pacifica, with its sport package and custom features, is not just a vehicle but a symbol of his independence. “When I first got hurt, I said, if I have to have a minivan, it has to look good,” he laughs. His van, with its side entry and spacious interior, is perfectly suited to his needs, allowing him to travel comfortably and in style.
Words of Wisdom
For those considering purchasing their first accessible van, Eric offers valuable advice: “Lean on the people at MobilityWorks and their expertise…They’re there to help you and make sure that you get the perfect van for your everyday lifestyle.” He says his experience with MobilityWorks has been nothing short of amazing. “Even though you might be going through a whole whirlwind right now trying to purchase a van, believe me, they’re not going to steer you the wrong way.”
For Eric LeGrand, having an accessible van is more than just a convenience—it’s a gateway to independence. “Being in a wheelchair now and having a disability, a lot of times people think about all the things that you can’t do. Well, having an accessible van is one of the first steps of being able to get your independence back,” he says. His van enables him to run his coffee shop (LeGrand Coffee House), manage his whiskey company (Eric LeGrand Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey), and inspire others as a motivational speaker.
Despite the challenges he faces, Eric’s outlook remains positive and determined. “I’m able to get from Point A to Point B…knowing I have this van behind me to do it, that’s all I need in life.” Through his partnership with MobilityWorks, Eric continues to break down barriers and prove that with the right tools and support, anything is possible.
