At Courtland Mobility, we believe in transforming dreams into reality, and Talli Osborne’s story is a true testament to that mission. Born without arms and with shortened legs, Talli faced many challenges throughout her life but remained determined to achieve independence. One of her most profound dreams was to drive her own car, and we are proud to have played a pivotal role in making that dream come true.
Talli’s journey began with the purchase of her dream car, a fuchsia Mini Cooper. However, turning that dream into a fully functional vehicle that Talli could drive independently required expert modifications and customizations. At Courtland Mobility, we specialize in making vehicles accessible for individuals with disabilities, and this project presented us with an opportunity to showcase our expertise in a truly unique way.
To meet Talli's specific needs, our team worked meticulously to modify her Mini Cooper. The modifications included a custom five-inch steering wheel mounted on the left door, which she operates with a cup to turn the main steering wheel. We also extended the gas and brake pedals and installed a touch screen that Talli uses with her left foot to change gears and activate signals. Additionally, we designed a seatbelt mechanism that allows her to fasten it independently, enhancing her self-reliance.
These modifications were essential to ensuring that Talli could drive her car without assistance, allowing her to enjoy the freedom and independence that many drivers take for granted. The entire process was a collaborative effort that involved shipping the car to Maine for some of the work and overcoming several logistical hurdles, but the result was worth every challenge.
This project was one of the most unique we’ve worked on at Courtland Mobility. As Tom Lancaster, our shop manager, mentioned, “The idea that she would need somebody with her to drive the car would make it a redundant project because the idea is she can go and do what she wants when she wants by herself.” Talli’s modified vehicle truly exemplifies the power of accessibility and the impact that customized solutions can have on someone’s life.
Now, Talli is not only able to drive her dream car, but she also has the independence to go wherever she pleases without relying on others. Her story has inspired thousands, with one of her Instagram videos garnering millions of views. Her perseverance, combined with our team's dedication, demonstrates that with the right technology and determination, nothing is impossible.
Ryan Bedard, General Manager at Courtland Mobility, added, “We’re incredibly proud of our work on Talli’s vehicle. It’s projects like this that truly inspire us. Seeing the positive impact our modifications have had on her life reaffirms our commitment to providing customized mobility solutions. Our goal is always to empower our customers with the independence they deserve, and Talli’s story is a great reminder of why we do what we do.”
At Courtland Mobility, we are committed to helping people like Talli overcome barriers and gain the independence they deserve. Our expertise in vehicle modifications extends to various accessibility needs, whether it's for individuals requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or those with other physical challenges. We take pride in working closely with our clients to deliver solutions tailored specifically to their needs.
If you or a loved one could benefit from our vehicle modification services, contact us today. We’re here to help you achieve the independence and mobility you deserve, just like we did for Talli.