The story of Anton

When everyday life becomes a barrier – and how it could have been different

Sometimes the simplest solution is the best one. When Anton got a cover, his joy at finally being able to go outside was incredible.

Anton’s mother, Karin, shares her story:

"I still remember it like it was yesterday, even though it’s been many years now. My son Anton is around 30 today, but when he was little, every winter day was a challenge.

I was alone at home with three children – Anton and his two younger siblings. Anton has severe multiple disabilities, and it took so much just to get him out the door.

First, I had to dress the younger ones. Overalls, mittens, hats, scarves, boots... you know how it is. Then it was Anton’s turn. He couldn’t help at all, and his body was so fragile. I couldn’t just dress him quickly – his legs could break if they were bent the wrong way. And the sleeping bag-style footmuff was a struggle in itself. Getting it on without hurting him... I was drenched in sweat every single time.

And then, once I finally got the footmuff on, lifted him into the wheelchair, and put on his hat, mittens, and jacket – the siblings had already run off and pulled half their clothes off again, so I had to start all over.

A friend once said to me: “Why don’t you start with Anton?” But if I did that, he’d get overheated and sweaty before we even made it outside. And then he’d freeze instead. Someone was always cold. Usually me. I was soaked in sweat by the time we got outside, and then I’d freeze out there.

Many times, we just stayed inside instead. I simply didn’t have the strength. It was too much. And it wasn’t just about the cold or the clothes. It was about not being able to move freely, not being able to pop into a shop or go for a spontaneous walk, because you couldn’t take the footmuff on and off without lifting and adjusting everything. It was exhausting – physically and emotionally.

When I found out about the Cab-on cover a year ago, my first thought was, “If only this had existed when Anton was little…”

This cover would have changed so much. We could have gone outside. Done things. Just those simple moments – feeling the wind on his face, being out in the rain, sun, or snow, which he loves so much. And now, when he lives in a group home, that hardly ever happens. There’s too little staff, too much stress. And that breaks my heart.

This isn’t just a cover – it opens up a whole new world. It gives freedom back to people who would otherwise have to stay indoors. It truly makes a difference. It’s quick, simple, and dignified. And it doesn’t just help the person in the wheelchair – it helps assistants, relatives, and parents. It means more people actually get to go outside. It’s freedom, quality of life, less stress, fewer tears, and more laughter.

I so deeply wish this cover had existed back then. For Anton, for his siblings, and for me. But I’m truly grateful that it exists now – for everyone else who’s struggling, just like we once did."

/Karin