Stefan Baumgartner lächelt während eines Interviews mit dem Scewo BRO vor der Kappelbrücke in Luzern. Menchen laufen hinter ihm vrbei.
January 24, 2025

«I would never give up my BRO.»

Stefan Baumgartner has always embraced life’s challenges—both as a truck driver and in his everyday life. Even after being diagnosed with a rare hereditary disease that gradually restricted his mobility, he never let it rob him of his joy for life. Instead of retreating, Stefan found a way to reshape his life with the stair-climbing electric wheelchair, Scewo BRO. If he had to describe BRO in three words, they would be: freedom, social connection, and independence.

Today, Stefan lives in the picturesque Seeland region of Switzerland, known for its rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and charming villages. Here, he fully enjoys the beauty of nature and discovers new opportunities to explore the world with BRO. As a «comeback kid», as he likes to call himself, Stefan sees BRO not just as an aid but as a loyal companion that helps him maintain his active lifestyle.

A New Chapter for Stefan

Stefan lives on the third floor of an apartment building. His progressive hereditary disease gradually brought more limitations, with the stairs to his home becoming his greatest obstacle. «I was stuck in my apartment for a year”, he recalls. A stairlift wasn’t an option for him, as it didn’t offer the flexibility he wanted.

By chance, Stefan came across the Scewo BRO online and was instantly intrigued. «With BRO, I have so much more freedom. A stairlift can take you up one staircase, but BRO can tackle hundreds», he realized immediately. After a trial ride, he was convinced that BRO was the right solution to regain his independence. This decision marked the start of a new phase in Stefan’s life, where obstacles became a thing of the past.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT): A Rare Hereditary Disease

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) is a rare genetic condition that affects the peripheral nervous system. Typical symptoms include chronic pain in the limbs, progressive muscle weakness, and numbness, often felt in the hands and feet. These symptoms can severely limit mobility and make everyday activities challenging.

Although CMT is currently incurable, there are ways to significantly improve the quality of life for those affected. Physical therapy, orthopedic aids, and innovative technologies like the Scewo BRO help preserve mobility and independence. According to the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association, the disease affects about 1 in 2,500 people worldwide.
(Source: Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association)

Staying Active and Independent

The Scewo BRO has positively transformed Stefan’s relationship with those around him. «Before, I was more of an outsider», he says, reflecting on the challenges of his condition. With BRO, he can now participate in social activities, travel independently, and confidently pursue new goals. His biggest passion, camping, is now something he can fully enjoy once again.

«I’ve already experienced so many great things with it», Stefan says with a smile. He regularly visits friends, attends festivals, and relishes his renewed ability to connect with others. Even at home, BRO has made him far more mobile. Thanks to the lift function, he can easily reach items that used to be inaccessible. «BRO has become indispensable to me», he emphasizes.

Stefan Baumgartner steigt mit dem Scewo BRO eine große Treppe in der Stadt hinunter.
Stefan Baumgartner fährt mit seinem treppensteigenden Elektrorollstuhl Scewo BRO sicher eine Holztreppe hinauf und demonstriert den Treppenmodus.
Stefan Baumgartner fährt mit seinem Scewo BRO über Kopfsteinpflaster in der Stadt.
Nahaufnahme von Stefan Baumgartners Scewo BRO Elektrorollstuhl von hinten mit einer Gummiente als Verzierung an der Kopfstütze
Stefan Baumgartner fährt mit dem ElektroollstuhlScewo BRO sicher und bequem auf einem Fußgängerweg mit Bäumen und einem großenGebäude im Hintergrund.

A Life Full of Stories

Wherever Stefan goes, BRO always attracts attention. With enthusiasm, he explains the innovative features of his trusted companion, demonstrating the stair-climbing mode or showing how he can interact at eye level using the seat lift function. His next great adventure will take him back to Turkey – a destination filled with cherished memories and longing for Stefan.

«I simply don’t give up» – This motto defines Stefan’s outlook on life and is something he loves to share with others. When he tells stories of his experiences or makes people laugh, he feels the energy it gives him in return. «That’s my life energy. It motivates me to keep going, despite my condition,» he says with a bright smile. BRO and his positive outlook give him the freedom to keep moving forward – and to do so with an infectious joy for life.

How Stefan Financed His BRO

From the beginning, Stefan was determined: The Scewo BRO was exactly what he needed to regain his independence. To make his dream come true, he turned to the Swiss Invalidity Insurance (IV). The application process required patience, multiple conversations, and perseverance – but Stefan stayed steadfast. Eventually, the IV covered part of the costs, and a foundation helped fund the remaining amount.

Today, Stefan is proud that his persistence paid off. His advice for others pursuing funding: «Stick with it and never give up – that’s what counts in the end.»

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