Kalogon’s latest innovation in custom smart seating receives CMS coding approval, accelerating health insurance coverage for tech-powered wheelchair cushions. Melbourne, Fla. (April 11, 2024) - Kalogon ,   a leader in smart seating solutions, today unveiled a new custom wheelchair cushion, Orbiter Med , which the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved for the use of Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Code E2609 to bill Medicare. For the first time, Orbiter Med combines Kalogon’s groundbreaking Advanced Pressure Management (APM) system with the individualized postural support of a custom cushion reimbursable by insurance.  Pressure injuries (PI) are one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States, and more than 50% of people who use wheelchairs have experienced a PI from sitting . However, people who use wheelchairs have had to compromise by choosing to focus on either structural support or skin integrity. Orbiter Med is custom fabricated based on each patient’s unique seating and positioning requirements - needs that can’t sufficiently be satisfied by a prefabricated seating system. Each Orbiter Med cushion features Kalogon’s groundbreaking APM system clinically proven to improve blood flow and is built to provide postural support customizations designated by a clinician, seating specialist or therapist.  "Our first Orbiter cushion was created out of a need for innovation in seating for people at higher risk for pressure injuries, who have been ignored for decades," said Tim Balz, CEO and co-founder of Kalogon. "Orbiter has been proven to improve blood flow and has already changed the lives of countless customers living active seated lives, but we know that one size doesn’t fit all. Orbiter Med is a fully customized system that blends the best technology in pressure management with tailored stability and postural support specific to a patient’s needs." APM uses a combination of machine learning and air cell technology to intelligently redistribute weight based on personalized settings set by a clinician in the Kalogon App. Users and clinicians can fine-tune their pressure levels and optimize their seating experience for different activities with the Kalogon App. Clinicians can select multiple cushion modifications, including variable sizes of medial and lateral supports, options for leg length discrepancies, residual limb support and more. Kalogon has partnered with National Seating & Mobility , North America’s largest provider of comprehensive mobility solutions, as the launch dealer for Orbiter Med in the United States. “National Seating & Mobility is proud to bring breakthrough technologies to market that will enhance the safety and lifestyle of the people we serve,” said Darren Lowman, chief supply chain officer at National Seating & Mobility. “Our collaboration with Kalogon will secure cushion demos for evaluative purposes in addition to technical training for our Assistive Technology Professionals to ensure our teams are prepared to make this wound prevention solution available in clinics nationally.” Orbiter Med represents the next stage in Kalogon's commitment to providing top-of-the-line products accessible to everyone who needs them. “More often than not, health innovation moves faster than regulation, creating economic barriers for the patients who could most benefit from technological advancements,” said Balz. “Patients shouldn’t have to sacrifice insurance coverage for the best technology available on the market. Earning CMS approval for Orbiter Med is a huge milestone in making our seating solutions more accessible. We take every piece of customer feedback to heart and thank all those who helped us test each iteration of Orbiter Med. This achievement is a testament to our team’s relentless effort to continuously improve our products.” Clinicians and seating specialists can order Orbiter Med by contacting Kalogon to be connected to their local representative at Kalogon.com , with cushions starting to ship in Summer 2024. Learn More https://www.kalogon.com/orbiter-med About Kalogon We empower individuals to lead active, seated lives. Kalogon is the trailblazer in smart seating, offering patent-pending solutions for medical, aviation and automotive customers. Kalogon’s core technology integrates custom molding, dynamic motion and ambient sensing to provide personalized, healthy seating. Our products are medically validated to improve blood flow, with customers reporting increased comfort and less fatigue. Learn more at https://www.kalogon.com .  Media contact: Heather Sliwinski Changemaker Communications for Kalogon heather@changemakercomms.com

A curated collection of books written by disabled authors to add to your reading list for 2024! Disability Visibility: First Person Stories from the Twenty-first Century by Alice Wong (editor) Sitting Pretty: The view from My Ordinary Resilient Disabled Body by Rebekah Taussig Against Technoableism: Rethinking Who Needs Improvement by Ashley Shew The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang Rolling Warrior: The Incredible, Sometimes Awkward, True Story of A Rebel Girl on Wheels Who Helped Spark A Revolution by Judith E. Heumann with Kristen Joiner The Secret of Haven Point by Lisette Auton The Centaur's Wife by Amanda Leduc So Lucky by Nicola Griffith Beauty Is a Verb by Jennifer Bartlett, Sheila Black, and Michael Northern Kindred by Octavia E. Butler I'll Push You by Patrick Gray and Justin Skeesuck What Happened to You?: A Solo Wheelchair Travel Memoir by Sylvia Longmire Driving Forwards by Sophie L. Morgan The Seawomen by Chloe Timms Girl of the Ashes by Hayleigh Barclay Happy World Book Day! Comment below if we missed one of your favorite books written by a disabled author. We'd love to add more to our list!

With an oversubscribed extended seed round, Kalogon will expand product offerings leveraging its Advanced Pressure Management (APM) system New funding will also bolster R&D and sales with commercial and military aviation partners, such as the U.S. Air Force MELBOURNE, Fla. (May 30, 2024) - Kalogon ,   the market leader in smart seating solutions, today announced it has raised $1.2 million in extended seed funding to expand its line of products built for an active, seated life. Sawmill Angels, M7, SeedFundersOrlando, AARP and additional angels participated in the oversubscribed seed extension.  Kalogon is pioneering a new category of smart seating solutions clinically proven to improve blood flow. Using its patent-pending Advanced Pressure Management (APM) system, Kalogon cushions feature a unique combination of foam, air bladders, sensors and software to automatically and dynamically adjust to the person sitting on them. Traditional cushions can reduce blood flow, leading to discomfort, pain and even pressure injuries for people who sit for long periods, such as wheelchair users, truckers, transportation workers, commercial pilots and more. Kalogon cushions analyze pressure points in real time, intelligently redistribute weight and increase comfort for those who sit for extended periods.  The company will use the funds to bolster R&D and go-to-market following a stand-out year of product advancements and record sales. K alogon has widened its footprint through partnerships with the world’s largest mobility device distributors – such as Etac and National Seating & Mobility – and has completed the AgeTech Collaborative ™ from AARP’s accelerator program. The company also recently completed a Phase 1 SBIR contract with the U.S. Air Force and published research in the Journal of Tissue Viability  that demonstrated the efficacy of Kalogon’s APM system. After record-breaking sales in Q1 2024, Kalogon announced its first Medicare-approved wheelchair cushion – OrbiterTM Med  – increasing its market by 10x and accelerating reimbursement for medical use.  “Kalogon is on an impressive trajectory, propelling the entire industry forward to provide solutions for health conditions that have been ignored for far too long,” said Jeff Ready, investor at Sawmill Angels and board member at Kalogon. “Kalogon has the potential to not only serve the medical industry with better mobility products but also solve complex seating problems in aviation, transportation, the public sector and many more industries, and we are proud to support their next growth phase.” “This funding is validation for the hard work and tangible results driven by our team in the last year,” said Tim Balz, founder and CEO of Kalogon. “With our relentless pursuit of science-backed innovation and an unwavering dedication to the user experience, we are ushering in a new future for seated wellness. The partnerships and product developments we have achieved recently have opened new doors, and this round will help us further expand our offerings and availability in the market.” For more information on Kalogon, visit https://www.kalogon.com/   About Kalogon We empower individuals to lead active, seated lives. Kalogon is the trailblazer in smart seating, offering patent-pending solutions for medical, aviation and automotive customers. Kalogon’s core technology integrates custom molding, adaptive motion and ambient sensing to provide personalized, healthy seating. Our products are medically validated to improve blood flow, with customers reporting increased comfort and less fatigue. Learn more at https://www.kalogon.com .  Media contact: Heather Sliwinski Changemaker Communications for Kalogon heather@changemakercomms.com

Smart seating company rises in the ranks of startups to watch following numerous accolades and user-centric product innovation Melbourne, Fla. (Sept. 10, 2024) – Kalogon , the market leader in smart seating solutions, today announced it has been chosen to exhibit at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 as part of Startup Battlefield 200, the world’s preeminent startup competition. This announcement comes on the heels of numerous honors and accolades awarded to the company from the startup community in just the last few months. Kalogon is one of 200 startups selected from a review of thousands of applicants to pitch in front of investors and TechCrunch editors and will be presenting its line of smart seating technology that improves blood flow for those who sit for extended periods. This year’s Startup Battlefield participants span artificial intelligence (AI), software as a service (SaaS), fintech, security, sustainability, space exploration and more. A Startup on the Rise Kalogon has risen in the ranks of fast-growing, innovative startups this summer, earning recognition as one of WTWH Healthcare’s Future Leaders Class of 2024 , a quarterfinalist in consumer wellness in the 2024 Digital Health Awards , a finalist for the Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Awards , a finalist for KPMG’s Private Enterprise Tech Innovator in the U.S. , and a finalist for Rally Innovation Conference’s IN-Prize Pitch competition . These honors resulted from Kalogon’s relentless dedication to its customers through human-centered design that improves seated wellness.  Kalogon has leveraged recent funding  to develop new seating solutions, land new distribution partnerships with the top assistive mobility device manufacturers, and further validate its smart seating technology. A new Kalogon study published in Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology  in August 2024 found that its Air Pressure Management System (APMS) positively affected tissue oxygenation in non-disabled participants comparable to traditional offloading methods, suggesting that it could benefit wheelchair users. Kalogon has also been granted a Phase 2 SBIR contract via the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research to conduct additional research on pressure injuries and expand its line of smart wheelchair cushions to be even more accessible. “The reception we’ve received across the startup and healthcare ecosystem has accelerated exponentially this summer, opening so many new doors to expand our footprint,” said Tim Balz, CEO and co-founder, Kalogon. “The opportunity to get in front of new investors, partners and tech talent has been a boon to our team and has directly supported our future growth. I’m incredibly proud of our team and look forward to showcasing what we’re working on as we apply our clinically validated technology to other surfaces.” TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 will be held from Mon, Oct. 28 - Wed, Oct. 30 at Moscone West in San Francisco. The event is known for debuting the hottest startups, introducing game-changing technologies and discussing what’s top-of-mind for the tech industry’s key innovators—and this year will be no different. Past companies launched at Disrupt include Dropbox, Mint, Cloudflare, Fitbit, Yammer and more. For more information on TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 and Startup Battlefield 200 visit the conference’s website here . Disrupt passes can be purchased here . Learn more about Kalogon at kalogon.com .  About Startup Battlefield TechCrunch’s Startup Battlefield 200 is the world’s preeminent startup competition. Startup Battlefield 200 will showcase the top 200 startups from around the globe, across multiple industries. All 200 companies will go through training, have access to masterclasses, private receptions, communities and investor meet and greets. Companies that launched on our stage include Vurb, Trello, Mint, Dropbox, Yammer, Tripit, Redbeacon, Qwiki, Getaround, and Soluto. About TechCrunch Disrupt TechCrunch Disrupt is the world’s leading authority in debuting revolutionary startups, introducing game-changing technologies, and discussing what’s top of mind for the tech industry’s key innovators. This year, Disrupt gathers the best and brightest entrepreneurs, investors, hackers, and tech fans in-person for interviews, demos, Startup Battlefield 200, Networking, and more. About Kalogon We empower individuals to lead active, seated lives. Kalogon redefines seating through patent-pending technology featuring our advanced pressure management system. Kalogon’s products promote seated tissue health using adaptive customizations, ambient adjustments and personalized settings. Our products are clinically validated to improve comfort and lessen fatigue for those who sit for extended periods, such as wheelchair users, pilots and drivers. Learn more at https://www.kalogon.com .  Media contact: Heather Sliwinski Changemaker Communications for Kalogon heather@changemakercomms.com

At Kalogon , we actively promote different experiences within our team, board, and advisory group by embracing a wide range of perspectives and experiences. We are committed to hiring individuals with various backgrounds, which helps us better understand the challenges our users face.  This collection of mission-driven employees reflects our belief that unique experiences lead to better solutions. We foster a culture of empathy and inclusion through initiatives like sharing personal stories about mobility and seating challenges, hosting a book club to encourage diverse discussions, and gathering ongoing feedback from the wheelchair-using community through our Kalogon Flyers program. As part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we wanted to shed light on some organizations we admire who emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion of employees with disabilities:  2. 2Gether-International 2Gether-International is changing the game for disabled founders. They run a startup accelerator that helps entrepreneurs with disabilities turn their ideas into successful businesses. By offering mentorship, access to capital, and a robust support network, 2Gether-International ensures that innovators with disabilities are able to lead the way in their industry. Their commitment to leveling the playing field for these entrepreneurs is helping create a future where diverse voices drive innovation.  2. DiscoverAbility DiscoverAbility partners with Florida’s Department of Education to provide On-the-Job Training (OJT) for people with disabilities, offering participants real-world work experience and skills training. DiscoverAbility’s model connects people with meaningful, paid work while supporting employers in building more inclusive teams. Their program helps bridge the gap between ability and opportunity, making a tangible difference in people’s lives.  3. Indiana Statewide Independent Living Council INSILC plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights of people with disabilities across Indiana. Led primarily by individuals with disabilities, this council ensures that disability voices are at the heart of decision-making processes. Their work focuses on promoting independent living and equal opportunities through policy and community engagement. By empowering individuals with disabilities to advocate for themselves, INSILC is helping to create a more inclusive and equitable state.

by Nchimunya Mwiinga A Pressure Injury (PI) is a localized area of damage that affects the skin and, potentially, the underlying tissues, usually occurring over a bony prominence. It can manifest as either intact skin or an open wound, and it arises due to sustained pressure applied to that area for an extended period of time (Bharucha et al., 2018). PIs develop as a result of mechanical loads such as friction but usually occur amongst people that spend most of their time sitting like wheelchairs users, patients with Spinal cord Injury and patients bedridden in Intensive Care Unit. A Combination of external forces as well as weight, internal forces and other factors such as bone anatomy, microclimate and tissue thresholds, integratedly lead to either internal deep tissue injury or deformation of cells, which eventually leads to a reduction in blood fall in the loaded areas, which consequently leads to the development of a pressure injury(Grey et al., 2006, Gefen et al., 2022). Statistical data shows that an estimate of between 1 and 3 million individuals in the United States experience pressure injuries each year (Mondragon & Zito, 2024). The incidence rate varies depending on the clinical setting. For instance, the prevalence of pressure injuries among patients admitted to hospitals ranges from 5% to 15%, while the percentage tends to be considerably higher in long-term care facilities and intensive care units. This emphasizes the urgency with which PIs should be addressed (Mondragon & Zito, 2024).  While the physiological impact of PIs is well-documented, the psychological ramifications for both caregivers and patients are often overlooked. This blog reviews some of the research work that has been done in analyzing the relationship between pressure injuries and psychological well-being. By exploring this work, we can understand the importance of a holistic approach towards healing and treatment of pressure injuries, emphasizing the importance of mental health for all parties involved. Pressure Injuries and Patient Psychological Wellbeing Patients with pressure injuries often experience a range of psychological effects beyond physical discomfort and pain. They may experience feelings of humiliation, social isolation, and  a loss of a sense of autonomy, which can be emotionally and mentally challenging (Qian et al., 2024). Due to the close care required for treatment, patients may struggle with anxiety, which can lead to feelings of helplessness. Social withdrawal could result from stigmas surrounding wounds from people around them, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and desolation. The malodors and leakage associated with pressure injuries have been shown to also contribute to patients' social withdrawal and feelings of humiliation (Charalambos et al., 2018). Harding-Okimoto (1997, as cited in Charalambos et al., 2018) interviewed patients with pressure injuries and found that they often experienced negative body-image perceptions, which can be highly distressing and lead to mental complications such as depression and social anxiety. Further research shows that other factors are likely to affect one's mental well-being regarding having a pressure injury. Qian et al. (2024), in a study examining 215 patients with pressure injuries, found a direct relationship between a patient's level of depression and the progression of the pressure injury stages. Patients with more severe injuries reported higher levels of depression. Additionally, they found an inverse relationship between the length of care and quality of life – the longer the duration of the pressure injury, the lower the reported quality of life scores. Qian et al. (2024) found that patients' anxiety levels increased with age, which may be attributed to mobility and health issues over time, as well as a higher susceptibility to pressure injuries accompanying aging. Pressure Injuries and Caregivers Psychological Wellbeing The psychological consequences associated with pressure injuries do not only exist in the patients but the caregivers as well. Caregivers, whether healthcare professionals, spouses, or relatives, face significant challenges and stressors when managing pressure injuries. Qian et al. (2024) also examined 216 caregivers along with 215 patients and found that caregivers experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression compared to patients. They also found that the location, particularly sacral and ischial injuries, of a pressure injury was found to be a significant determinant of more extensive care, placing a heavy burden on caregivers. This implies that caregivers had invested more of their time and emotional capacity to be available and present for their patients. Furthermore, the study revealed a direct correlation between caregiver stress and the progression of pressure injury stages, reflecting the impact of the injury's severity on caregivers' mental well-being. The psychological toll on caregivers is multifaceted. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and burnout can arise from the demanding nature of providing care for patients with pressure injuries. The need for constant vigilance, attending to wound care, and managing pain can be emotionally and physically taxing. These findings highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing caregiver stress and the need for support systems and self-care strategies. Neglecting the emotional well-being of caregivers can lead to burnout, compromised quality of care, and negative patient outcomes. Psychological ramifications experienced by both groups Quin et al. (2024) found a statistically significant correlation between patient depression and caregiver burden, reflecting the patient-caregiver dynamics present when treating pressure injuries. They also discovered that the sleep quality of both patients and caregivers deteriorated as the pressure injury stage became more severe. Patients experienced sleep difficulties due to pain, while caregivers had to provide heightened nocturnal care. Similarly, depression and stress levels increased for both parties as the pressure injury progressed, highlighting the direct correlation between injury severity and psychological distress. Notably, as caregivers' burden increased, there was a significant rise in the probability of patients experiencing high levels of depression. They also found a correlation between the duration or length of care provided and the well-being of both patients and caregivers, with both groups experiencing lower levels of mental well-being as the length of care increased. Integrating Mental Health in Pressure Injury Care: A Holistic Approach The interconnectedness of physical and mental health in pressure injury care cannot be overlooked. Charalambos et al. (2018) suggest that stress can impair the healing process in humans, thereby affecting the treatment of pressure injuries. They discuss how stress can impair the healing process by affecting various biochemicals and hormones essential for wound healing. Ebrecht et al.(2004) found that as perceived stress increased, the speed of wound healing decreased, highlighting the direct impact of psychological factors on physical recovery. To address this, a holistic approach that integrates mental health support is crucial. Incorporating mental health professionals into care teams can ensure that both the physical and psychological needs of patients and caregivers are addressed. Open communication and education about the psychological impacts of pressure injuries can empower caregivers and patients to prioritize their mental well-being. Furthermore, technological innovations like Kalogon's products can play a significant role in alleviating the burden on both patients and caregivers. By promoting autonomy, mobility, and advanced air pressure management, these devices can restore - to some degree - a sense of control and independence for patients, while reducing the caregiving demands on loved ones or healthcare professionals. For instance, products such as the Booster are useful for leak detection in air-based cushions, maintaining pressure in case of a leak, and adjusting to environmental pressure changes, which can reduce the anxiety that deflation may result from unexpected deflation. Meanwhile, products like the Orbiter and Arbiter Med can assist wheelchair users with pressure offloading and pressure control, all of which help patients and ease the burden on caregivers. Collaboration between healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and companies like Kalogon can pave the way for a comprehensive approach to pressure injury care, addressing the multifaceted needs of all parties involved. Conclusion The relationship between pressure injuries and psychological well-being is undeniable. Patients with PIs often experience negative emotions, social isolation, and a diminished quality of life, while caregivers grapple with stress, anxiety, and burnout from the demands of providing care. Neglecting mental health can impede the healing process and exacerbate the detrimental impacts of pressure injuries. To truly promote holistic healing and well-being, it is crucial to integrate mental health support into pressure injury care plans. By acknowledging and addressing the psychological needs of both patients and caregivers, healthcare providers can create a more comprehensive and effective approach to treatment. Additionally, leveraging innovative technologies that restore autonomy and alleviate caregiver burdens can further support a multifaceted approach to pressure injury management. Prioritizing mental health is not only a matter of compassion but also a fundamental aspect of effective pressure injury care and overall well-being. Kalogon is not just concerned about improving the sitting lives of its clients but also their holistic well-being. References Bharucha, J. B., Seaman, L., Powers, M., Kelly, E., Seaman, R., Forcier, L., McGinnis, J.,  Nodiff, I., Pawlak, B., Snyder, S., Nodiff, S., Patel, R., Squitieri, R., & Wang, L. (2018). A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial of a Novel, Noninvasive Perfusion Enhancement System for the Prevention of Hospital-Acquired Sacral Pressure Injuries. Journal of wound, ostomy, and continence nursing : official publication of The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society , 45 (4), 310–318. https://doi.org/10.1097/WON.0000000000000450 Charalambous, C., Vassilopoulos, A., Koulouri, A., Eleni, S., Popi, S., Antonis, F.,  Pitsillidou,M., & Roupa, Z. (2018). The Impact of Stress on Pressure Ulcer Wound Healing Process and on the Psychophysiological Environment of the Individual Suffering from them. Medical archives (Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina) , 72 (5), 362–366. https://doi.org/10.5455/medarh.2018.72.362-366   Mondragon N, Zito PM. Pressure Injury. [Updated 2024 Feb 28]. In: StatPearls [Internet].  Treasure Island (FL):  StatPearls Publishing;  2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557868/ Ebrecht, M., Hextall, J., Kirtley, L. G., Taylor, A., Dyson, M., & Weinman, J. (2004). Perceived  stress and cortisol levels predict speed of wound healing in healthy male adults. Psychoneuroendocrinology , 29 (6), 798–809. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0306-4530(03)00144-6   Qian, L., Yan, S., Ting, S. T., Han, Z. M., & Qi, T. (2024). Complications and psychological  impact of pressure ulcers on patients and caregivers. International wound journal , 21 (4), e14836. https://doi.org/10.1111/iwj.14836

Melbourne, Fla. (October 30, 2024) -   Kalogon ,   the market leader in smart seating solutions, today announced that its first Medicare-approved product, Orbiter Med , has received a Special Mention  in TIME's Best Inventions of 2024 list . This prestigious recognition underscores Orbiter Med's significant impact on improving seated wellness within healthcare, transportation and defense industries. Every year for over two decades, TIME has highlighted the most impactful new products and ideas in TIME’s Best Inventions issue. To compile the list, they solicited nominations and evaluated each contender on several key factors, including originality, efficacy, ambition, and impact. Orbiter Med was selected in a small group of Special Mentions on the list for 2024. Launched in 2024, Orbiter Med is Kalogon’s custom cushion for pressure management and postural support for wheelchair users, pilots, transportation workers and more. Each Orbiter Med cushion features Kalogon’s groundbreaking Advanced Pressure Management System (APMS) clinically proven to improve blood flow and is built to provide postural support customizations designated by a clinician, seating specialist or therapist. APMS uses machine learning and patent-pending air cell technology to analyze pressure points and adjust to prescribed levels in real time to maintain skin integrity and influence posture. "This recognition from TIME is a huge honor for Kalogon and is a direct result of our customers, partners and team," said Tim Balz, CEO and co-founder at Kalogon. "Kalogon doesn’t create products looking for a solution – everything we do is born out of the needs of our customers. To have our first Medicare-approved product recognized by such a reputable publication validates our customer-centric approach and expands the impact we can have in moving the industry forward." For more information on Orbiter Med, contact Kalogon to be connected to you local representative at Kalogon.com . About Kalogon We empower individuals to lead active, seated lives. Kalogon redefines seating through patent-pending technology featuring our advanced pressure management system. Kalogon’s products promote seated tissue health using adaptive customizations, ambient adjustments and personalized settings. Our products are clinically validated to improve comfort and lessen fatigue for those who sit for extended periods, such as wheelchair users, pilots and drivers. Learn more at https://www.kalogon.com .  Media contact: Heather Sliwinski Changemaker Communications for Kalogon heather@changemakercomms.com

This past weekend, Team Kalogon participated in the 2024 Troy J Smith Ability Games, an event created to showcase the strength and grit of adaptive athletes working alongside their non-disabled teammates. Hosted by Stay In Step, the Ability Games have been a powerful platform since 2017, giving athletes with and without spinal cord injuries the chance to tackle shared challenges together. Ability Games for Adaptive and Non-Disabled Athletes Alike Held each fall, the Ability Games bring together adaptive and non-disabled athletes, with this year featuring around 20 from each group representing organizations like Stay In Step, Brooks Rehab, and CORE in Orlando. Competing in wheelchair-based challenges, teams of four—two adaptive athletes paired with two able-bodied teammates—pushed each other and themselves to the limit. The gym was packed with about 140 attendees, vendors, and supporters, cheering the 11 teams on throughout the day. For non-disabled participants, the adaptive workouts were a deep dive into the experiences of those who use wheelchairs, leveling the field and building new perspectives on the resilience of adaptive athletes. Team Kalogon Recap Team Kalogon showed up strong, with employees Heather and Jake teaming up with Robin, along with our Kalogon Flyer, David, to compete on the floor. Evan, another Kalogon team member, cheered them on from the sidelines. The entire team enjoyed supporting each other through each challenge, with David and Robin earning well-deserved awards for their hard work and determination. Team Kalogon is already looking ahead to next year, committed to training even harder for the 2025 games. At Kalogon, supporting active, seated lives goes beyond our products to our community who embodies resilience and teamwork. The Ability Games were a chance to connect with people who share that mission, making this weekend an experience we’re proud to be part of.

Observed every November, World Wide Pressure Injury Prevention Day raises awareness about the severe impact of pressure injuries (PIs) and emphasizes the importance of prevention. This year, Kalogon is highlighting findings from its Inaugural Seating & Sitting Survey to contribute to this global conversation. Conducted in late 2023, the survey gathered responses from over 1,300 individuals, including the general U.S. population and wheelchair users, to explore their experiences with sitting, comfort, and pressure injuries. The results are a call to action: pressure injuries affect 2.5 million people annually in the U.S., causing 60,000 deaths and costing up to $151,700 per injury. Among wheelchair users, 51% reported having experienced a PI, underscoring the urgent need for preventive measures and better support for prolonged sitting (Figure 1.) Key insights include: Prevalence of Pressure Injuries: 13% of the general population and half of wheelchair users reported PIs. Demographics Matter: Urban residents, younger adults (25–44), and men showed higher prevalence rates. Pain Awareness: Individuals with PIs often report greater discomfort, reflecting heightened sensitivity to their condition. PIs can develop from prolonged pressure that limits blood flow, particularly in areas over bony prominences like the sacrum and coccyx. These injuries are preventable with better seating solutions, increased education, and early intervention. World Wide Pressure Injury Prevention Day serves as a reminder of the critical need for global efforts to address this issue. Kalogon’s survey reinforces the importance of understanding diverse seating needs and identifying at-risk populations to improve prevention strategies. Together, we can work towards a world with fewer pressure injuries. For more insights and solutions, visit https://www.kalogon.com/research References: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, AHRQ (2014). Preventing pressure ulcers in hospitals. https://www.ahrq.gov/patient-safety/settings/hospital/resource/pressureulcer/tool/pu1.html Agrawal, K., & Chauhan, N. (2012). Pressure ulcers: Back to the basics. Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery, 45(02), 244–254. https://doi.org/10.4103/0970-0358.101287 Zulkowski, D.N.S., RN, D. K. (2015, March). Wound Classification Webinar. Washington, D.C.; Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). https://www.ahrq.gov/sites/default/files/wysiwyg/professionals/systems/hospital/pressure_ulcer_prevention/webinars/webinar6_pu_woundassesst.pdf Kalogon. Inaugural Seating & Sitting Survey. (2024, January). https://www.kalogon.com/research/2024-seating-sitting-survey Saunders, L. L., Krause, J. S., Peters, B. A., & Reed, K. S. (2010b). The relationship of pressure ulcers, race, and socioeconomic conditions after spinal cord injury. The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 33(4), 387–395. https://doi.org/10.1080/10790268.2010.11689717 National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Facts and Figures at a Glance. Birmingham, AL: University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2023 https://www.nscisc.uab.edu/public/Facts%20and%20Figures%202023%20-%20Final.pdf

At Kalogon, we’re always exploring new ways to share the innovative ideas behind our products and research. Today, we’re introducing a fresh take on our Orbiter White Paper – an AI-generated podcast created by NotebookLM . This podcast offers a thoughtful overview of the key insights from our white paper, presenting complex topics like the impact of pressure injuries and the groundbreaking solutions provided by Kalogon’s Orbiter cushion in a conversational and approachable format. It’s an engaging way to explore the technology and research that drives our mission. As with any AI-generated content, you may notice some occasional quirks or minor errors. Even so, the podcast captures the core themes of the white paper effectively and provides a compelling summary of our work. We encourage you to tune in, explore, and see how Orbiter is transforming comfort and care for wheelchair users. Experience this unique perspective on our research and innovation: full podcast below!  Highlights Include:  [00:44] The hosts explore the devastating impact of PIs, including tissue damage due to restricted blood flow, with statistics highlighting 60,000 deaths annually in the U.S. alone. [02:38] "Up to 50% of wheelchair users experience PIs, compared to 13% of the general population." [04:15] Existing Solutions: Pressure Offloads and Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs [05:43] The Challenge with Traditional Cushions [06:59] A breakdown of Orbiter's technology, including its viscoelastic foam layer, dynamically adjusting air cells, and integrated app for customization. [08:27] Clinical Evidence Supporting Orbiter's Effectiveness "Orbiter showed significantly better blood flow than static cushions." [09:53] Case Study: Ms. Z’s Remarkable Recovery "After two years with a stage IV pressure injury, Ms. Z healed completely in 10 months with Orbiter." [11:34] The Broader Impact of Innovative Technology

The annual list recognizes the industry-leading companies that are the best at what they do. Melbourne, FL, December 4, 2024 -- Kalogon is proud to announce its inclusion on the Inc. 2024 Best in Business list in the Small and Mighty (10 – 49 Employees) category. Inc.’s annual Best in Business Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements and contributions of companies that have made a profound impact on their industries and on society at large. Inc.’s Best in Business list recognizes companies that, through exceptional execution, have achieved significant milestones and core business wins, like customer expansion, key product launches, increased market share, and industry-defining accomplishments. Companies from a wide range of industries – such as technology, health care, finance, and retail – have been recognized for their success and their positive influence on the business world. The full list can be found on Inc.com and in the upcoming winter print edition of Inc. magazine. “For over 40 years Inc. has been committed to recognizing America’s most dynamic businesses and honoring the great work they do. These businesses have had a profound impact on their industries, solving important problems, and shaping the future of business in ways that will have lasting effects,” says Inc. editor-in-chief Mike Hofman Inc.’s Best in Business Awards are open to companies of all sizes and types, in all industries and locations. Public, private, nonprofit, subsidiary, U.S.-based, and international companies are all encouraged to apply. Inc. editors and reporters hand-review every application and select Best in Business honorees that, in each of the award categories, have had an outstanding influence on their communities, their industries, the environment, or society as a whole. For more information or to see the complete list, please visit inc.com/best-in-business. View our profile https://www.inc.com/profile/kalogon About Inc. Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of our community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating our future. Inc.'s award-winning work achieves a monthly brand footprint of more than 40 million across a variety of channels, including events, digital, print, video, podcasts, newsletters, and social media. Its proprietary Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since its launch as the Inc. 100 in 1982, analyzes company data to rank the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The recognition that comes with inclusion on this and other prestigious Inc. lists, such as Female Founders and Power Partners, gives the founders of top businesses the opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

As the year draws to a close, the Kalogon team are reflecting on an incredible 2024 filled with innovation, growth, and meaningful connections. From launching new products to attending industry-shaping events, none of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our community, partners, and customers. Here's a month-by-month recap of our year and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey. January We kicked off 2024 with a bang, officially delivering Booster , designed to reduce anxiety of using your existing single cell cushion by measuring and maintaining your clinician’s recommendation for pressure in an air cell cushion, and the next step in innovative seating solutions. February Our first journal article was published in the Journal of Tissue Viability , showcasing how our cushion's offload mode improves blood flow and oxygenation in gluteal tissue. CEO and Founder Tim Balz presented at the Florida Venture Forum , sharing Kalogon’s vision for the future in our home state. We hosted a “Love Your Butt” pressure mapping  event, giving wheelchair users insights into their seating systems. March Kalogon graduated from the AARP AgeTech Collab  cohort, equipping us with tools to disrupt the longevity economy with cutting-edge innovations. We took our mission coast to coast, attending events like the Reeve Foundation , Abilities Expos , and CSUN . We launched additional Orbiter accessories : the XLR charger, extender, incontinence cover, and replacement covers. April Kalogon announced the launch of Orbiter Med , a medicare-approved custom wheelchair cushion for pressure management and postural support.  We sponsored Kalogon Flyers’ David Kellam Jr., Dalkin Gomez, and Kenny Menendez who participated in Survival of the Fittest, an adaptive athlete competition at CORE in Orlando. May We announced that Kalogon raised $1.2 million in extended seed funding  to expand its line of products built for an active, seated life. Team Kalogon explored how to integrate our solutions into aviation at the Aircraft Interiors Expo  with Collins Aerospace.  We joined more Abilities Expos and teamed up with Lexi, an Ainsley’s Angel, for the Indy Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon . June Kalogon shipped our very first Orbiter Med , opening doors to even greater accessibility and comfort! July The team came together for our first team offsite event, discussing our vision and goals for Kalogon’s future success and endeavors. August Our second journal article was published in the Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology. CEO Tim Balz was invited to pitch at KPMG  and Rally Innovation . September Tim Balz attended and spoke at the All Wheels Up Global Forum , addressing innovation in wheelchair materials and accessible air travel. October We were honored to be named among America’s 100 Best and Brightest Small Businesses by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and attended the prestigious CO-100 event. Team Kalogon was on the road for pretty much the entire month,  bringing our products directly to communities across the U.S., and were able to stay safe after Hurricane Milton hit headquarters.  November Kalogon's first Medicare-approved product, Orbiter Med, received a Special Mention in TIME's Best Inventions of 2024 List . This honor validates our customer-centric approach and expands the impact we can have in moving the industry forward. We welcomed Kelly Waugh , a renowned physical therapist and wheelchair seating expert, as our Clinical Advisor. Her four decades of experience and leadership within the International Organization of Standards have already begun to help us shape the future of wheelchair seating. Kalogon participated in the Troy J. Smith Ability Games , an event created to showcase the strength and grit of adaptive athletes working alongside their non-disabled teammates. Kalogon employees Heather and Jake teamed up with Robin, and Kalogon Flyer David, to compete on the floor.  December Kalogon was honored as one of Inc. Magazine 2024 Small and Mighty Best In Business  award honorees.  We wrapped up the year with our 6th Abilities Expo. Energized and ready for 2025, with some exciting plans already in the works to make next year even better! 2024 was a year of achievements and gratitude. To our partners, supporters, and the incredible individuals who use our products — you are the reason we continue to innovate and grow. As we look ahead to 2025, we’re filled with excitement for what’s to come. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and here’s to making even greater strides together in the year ahead! Happy New Year! —The Kalogon Team