We’re excited to share that the updated edition of Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide is now available – and it includes a chapter co-written by Kalogon’s very own Clinical Advisor, Kelly Waugh, PT, MAPT, ATP, alongside Dr. Barbara Crane, PT, PhD, ATP/SMS. This comprehensive resource, first published in 2018 and now newly revised, brings together thought leaders and subject matter experts across the seating and mobility field. It remains one of the most respected clinical guides in the industry. Kelly and Barbara’s chapter, “Chapter 9: Standardized Measures of the Person, Seating System and Wheelchair,” delivers a detailed look at the essential linear and angular body and equipment measurements used in seating assessments, product specification, and wheelchair fitting.  “The goal was to create a common language – shared definitions and measurements that improve communication across the care and development continuum. That clarity leads directly to better fit, better outcomes, and a higher quality of life for wheelchair users.” — Kelly Waugh, PT, MAPT, ATP These standardized measurements are grounded in international standards and terminology developed over the past two decades. This chapter serves as a condensed, accessible version of two highly regarded clinical guides that Kelly and Barbara co-authored: A Clinical Application Guide to Standardized Wheelchair Seating Measures (2013) and the Glossary of Wheelchair Terms and Definitions, Version 1.0 (2013) . These manuals were created through a PVA grant to make the content in several relevant ISO wheelchair seating standards more understandable and accessible to clinicians, suppliers, engineers, and other professionals working in the complex rehabilitation technology  space. Kelly, who has been a central figure in international wheelchair standards development since 1998, served as Chair of the Wheelchair Seating Working Groups for both RESNA and ISO that developed the standard on seating measures. Her work has played a foundational role in shaping how posture and seating support measurements are understood and communicated globally. While Kelly’s chapter is a standout contribution, the entire book offers an outstanding collection of knowledge from leaders across the field. Each chapter covers a different aspect of seating and mobility – from clinical assessment and pediatric mobility to funding strategies and emerging technologies – making this resource invaluable for anyone in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned clinician, a product designer, or new to the field, there’s something in this guide to elevate your practice and understanding. How to Access These Resources Order the Book: Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide Save 20% with discount code ESA04 Download the Free Clinical Guides: Clinical Application Guide & Glossary of Terms At Kalogon, we’re proud to have Kelly’s expertise at the heart of what we do. Her leadership in shaping global standards for wheelchair seating continues to influence how we approach innovation and user-centered design.

World Health Day happens every year on April 7 to mark the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO). It's a global check-in – time to look at the biggest health issues affecting people everywhere, and how we can do better. One issue that deserves way more attention? Pressure injuries. These injuries can start small but lead to serious health problems, especially for people who spend a lot of time sitting or lying down. And the stats are alarming: 60,000 Americans die each year from pressure injuries and related complications The average cost to treat just one pressure injury is $22,000 Pressure injuries affect more than 1 in 10 people in the general U.S. population (for wheelchair users, that number jumps to 1 in 2) And in the spinal cord injury community, 95% will experience a pressure injury in their lifetime These injuries are painful, expensive, and often preventable. The WHO has emphasized how preventable conditions like these put major stress not just on healthcare systems, but on individuals, families, and caregivers. At Kalogon, we’re digging into the data to help shift that. Our seating & sitting survey  shows how widespread pressure injuries are – and how overlooked proper support and positioning can be. We’ve also published a white paper  on the impact of smart seating tech in real-world settings, and have several journal articles  proving Kalogon’s technology improves blood flow when seated – a necessary in preventing pressure injuries.  We’re focused on prevention, because no one should have to deal with a pressure injury when there are tools to help stop them before they start. At Kalogon, we believe in starting with awareness. That’s why we’re using World Health Day to keep the spotlight on this issue and share the resources that matter.  Want to dive deeper? Check out: 🔗 WHO: Pressure ulcers and general patient safety 🔗 AHRQ: Pressure Injury Prevention Toolkit

At Kalogon, collaborative design and rapid prototyping are the foundation of our product development process. By prioritizing customer feedback and iterative improvements, we’ve developed solutions that address real needs for wheelchair users, healthcare professionals, and even the U.S. Air Force.   Rapid Prototyping in Action   Our process begins with listening. Kalogon’s first prototype was built in just one week, and we consistently deliver multiple iterations faster than industry standards. For instance, working with an aviation partner, we successfully developed and refined two prototypes within one month. Other stories include our collaboration with the U.S. Air Force, where we adapted our iterative design approach to develop smart seat cushions (Orbiter Ace) for B-52 pilots. By leveraging techniques inspired by SpaceX, we designed hardware optimized for cost-effective, rapid iteration, producing dozens of prototypes for testing with end-users. We’re able to do this by approaching each project with a combination of  data-driven insights and empathy-driven design, ensuring every iteration addresses both technical and user-centric challenges. Data-Driven Insights The team’s ability to quickly develop, test, and refine products keeps us ahead of industry trends. One standout initiative is our Pressure Mapping Events, which evaluate users’ existing cushions to identify pressure points and compare results with Kalogon’s innovative seating solutions. These events validate design changes, such as modular pre-ischial ridges or redesigned pelvic supports, and drive meaningful improvements in comfort and functionality. We offer these services for free through partnerships with local rehab gyms, fostering community excitement while raising awareness about the importance of proper seating. Empathy-Driven Design Our design process begins with understanding users’ real-world challenges through direct engagement and research. This approach ensures our products, like Orbiter Med, a Medicare-approved custom wheelchair cushion, deliver meaningful improvements in comfort and health by integrating features like custom molding, dynamic motion, and ambient sensing. In addition, our Kalogon Flyers program supports athletes by providing both monetary compensation, our innovative seating solutions products to trial and review, and an opportunity to own our products when they complete objectives in the program. Beyond that, Flyers play a critical role in our design process by offering early product feedback and ongoing insights. Their real-world experience provides our team with invaluable commentary, helping refine features quickly and ensuring the final product meets users’ needs. If you're interested in being one of the first to test drive our products, check out our application here  or send a request to www.contactus@kalogon.com .  Our Practical, Iterative Approach   Kalogon’s commitment to collaboration and iteration allows us to respond quickly to challenges and deliver effective solutions. By combining customer insights, rapid prototyping, and advanced technology, we’re able to develop products that truly make a difference – efficiently and effectively.   At Kalogon, we’re proving that innovation doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about listening, iterating, and delivering solutions that work.

Orbiter Med now offers new gluteal extension, contour adjustments for increased comfort and pressure relief for more body types Melbourne, Fla. (March 18, 2025) - Kalogon ,   a leader in smart seating solutions, today announced its custom wheelchair cushion Orbiter Med  will now be available in extended sizing. The new sizing options expand accessibility to a broader range of users who need improved support and pressure relief. Launched in 2024, Orbiter Med combines Kalogon’s groundbreaking Advanced Pressure Management System (APMS) with the individualized postural support of a custom cushion reimbursable by insurance. Starting today, Orbiter Med is now available in sizes up to 27 inches by 27 inches, ensuring that more wheelchair users—regardless of their body type—can benefit from Kalogon’s smart seating technology. This expanded sizing was developed in response to consumer feedback, aiming to serve a broader audience who experience difficulties with offloading and weight shifts. "Our goal has always been to deliver adaptive seating solutions that solve direct problems for our customers," said Tim Balz, CEO and co-founder of Kalogon. "Wheelchair users are diverse and have unique needs for a cushion, from postural support to skin protection. The first iteration of Orbiter Med has been a game changer for Medicare-coded cushions, and the introduction of expanded sizing is an important step toward serving a greater population." Kalogon adjusted Orbiter Med based on feedback from clinical advisors and customer requests. These improvements include offering a gluteal extension to the back of the cushion, optimal performance up to 550 lbs., and adjustments to the contours of the pelvic well for redundant tissue. These refinements ensure that Orbiter Med provides even greater comfort and functionality for users with specific postural and pressure relief needs. Orbiter Med still offers all the original cushion modifications, including variable sizes for medial, posterior lateral pelvic, lateral thigh and residual limb supports.  Clinicians and seating specialists can order Orbiter Med by contacting Kalogon to be connected to their local representative at Kalogon.com . About Kalogon We empower individuals to lead active, seated lives. Kalogon is the trailblazer in smart seating solutions for medical, aviation and automotive customers. Kalogon's patent-pending Advanced Pressure Management System (APMS) offers adaptive customizations, ambient adjustments and personalized settings. 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

Wheelchair users and clinicians alike understand the daily challenges of pressure management – from maintaining proper cushion inflation to preventing injuries caused by prolonged sitting. In our monthly Live Q&A, Team Kalogon dives deep into our cutting-edge solutions: Booster and Orbiter Med. These technologies are designed to eliminate guesswork, enhance comfort, and reduce the risk of pressure injuries through smart, adaptive systems. The team covered this and more - we’ve broken down the key takeaways, including product features, setup tips, and answers to common questions. Key Highlights 0:40 – Overview of Kalogon We’re based in Melbourne, Florida, near the Kennedy Space Center. Kalogon has been around for four years, founded by former SpaceX and NASA engineers. Our CEO, Tim, started a nonprofit for wheelchair users in high school and later focused on pressure injury prevention. Covering:  Booster: An air management system for single-cell cushions. Orbiter Med: Our advanced pressure management wheelchair cushion. 5:21 – Booster Q&A Q: What does Booster do? It attaches to single-cell air cushions, maintaining clinically set pressure. If a leak is detected, it alerts you and keeps the cushion properly inflated. Q: How long is the battery life? About 7 days (4-hour charge). It adjusts for altitude/temperature and works continuously. Q: Can it handle changes in tilt or movement? Yes! It senses pressure changes such as bumpy roads and can adjust sensitivity via the app. Q: How do you set it up? Two ways: Clinician Mode: Press buttons to set pressure (prevents user overrides). App: For initial setup (iOS/Android compatible). Q: Is the app required daily? No — settings save to Booster. The app is mainly for initial setup. 11:09 – Orbiter Med Q&A Orbiter Med is an E2609-coated cushion with five anatomical zones and adaptive pressure redistribution. Q: Where does the control box go? It mounts to the chair or a pouch. An extender cord brings controls to your fingertips. Q: Can you customize the cushion? Yes! It includes lateral/pelvic supports, and sizes range from 15x15" to 27x27" (550 lb weight limit). Q: How does the app work? You can set up to 10 presets (e.g., transfer mode, activity-specific adjustments). Firmware updates improve connectivity. Q: Battery life? 16 – 18 hours (3 – 4 hours to charge). 19:49 – Closing: Q: Can you pressure-map the products? Yes! Local reps can schedule mappings, or visit our Florida office. Q: Upcoming events? NY Abilities Expo Edison, NJ 5/2-5/4 Indy Mini Indianapolis, IN 5/3 Survival of the Fittest Orlando, FL 5/4  NuMotion NuFair Nashville, TN 5/12-5/13 NORCO Medical Boise, ID 5/13-5/15 Miller’s Mobility Columbus, OH 5/22 Ready to learn more or schedule a demo? 📞 Contact our sales team today at Contactus@kalogon.com 🌐 Watch the full event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7rYjt62EhM 👀 Join us for our next Live Q&A: https://www.kalogon.com/events-calendar Have questions? Drop them in the comments below or reach out – we’d love to answer them in our next Q&A!

Paragon Mobility will serve as the exclusive dealer for Booster by Kalogon, a pressure-management controller for single-cell air flotation wheelchair cushions Melbourne, Fla. (May 13, 2025) - Kalogon ,   a leader in smart seating solutions, today announced its expansion into the Australian market through an exclusive distribution partnership with Paragon Mobility . Under this agreement, Paragon will serve as the exclusive dealer of Booster by Kalogon  across Australia, furthering Kalogon’s mission to bring intelligent comfort and pressure management solutions to wheelchair users worldwide. Booster is an external controller powered by Kalogon’s advanced Air Pressure Management System (APMS), designed to help wheelchair users maintain optimal pressure levels in their existing single-cell air flotation cushions. By dynamically adjusting to ambient pressure changes, user movements and personalized settings, Booster ensures consistent pressure without the need for manual adjustments.  “Thanks to significant demand outside of the U.S., our partnership with Paragon enables us to expand our reach and bring the benefits of Booster to more people who need more reliable pressure management in their current wheelchair cushions,” said Tim Balz, CEO and co-founder of Kalogon. “Paragon has more than a decade of expertise in delivering positive outcomes for its clients in Australia, so they are a natural fit for bringing our technology to this new market.” With a growing international presence, Kalogon continues to focus on addressing the unique needs of wheelchair users. Booster represents a major advancement in assistive technology by seamlessly integrating with a user's current cushion system, making it easy to enhance comfort and health without changing their entire setup. “Paragon prides itself on offering the most intelligent and innovative mobility products on the market, and Kalogon is leading the pack with groundbreaking seating products,” said David Fagan, Managing Director for Paragon Mobility. “Booster by Kalogon will give our clients more flexibility with their current cushions and a greater sense of confidence as they move through life.” Booster by Kalogon is now available to Paragon clients in Australia. For more information about Kalogon’s products or to explore distribution opportunities, visit www.kalogon.com . To order Booster by Kalogon through Paragon, find a dealer at https://www.paragonmobility.com.au/dealers .   About Kalogon We empower individuals to lead active, seated lives. Kalogon is the trailblazer in smart seating solutions for medical, aviation and automotive customers. Kalogon's patent-pending Advanced Pressure Management System (APMS) offers adaptive customizations, ambient adjustments and personalized settings. Our products are medically validated to improve blood flow, with customers reporting increased comfort and less fatigue. Learn more at https://www.kalogon.com .  About Paragon Mobility Paragon Mobility was formed in 2009 as a direct response to the need for Specialised Assistive Technology products within Australia. Our goal is to provide high quality seating and mobility products coupled with education services directed toward providing positive client outcomes. Paragon Mobility distribute products from a wide range of international brands including Ki Mobility, Raz Designs, Blake Medical, Ride Designs, Therafin and now we are excited to partner with Kalogon. Paragon Mobility continues to grow a portfolio of world class products, and we look forward to working with our dealer network across the country to assist end users in achieving positive outcomes. Media contact: Heather Sliwinski Changemaker Communications for Kalogon heather@changemakercomms.com

Katie Haynes is always on the go. She’s an adaptive hunter , a disability advocate, a volunteer with Dysautonomia International , and the founder of Smiling While Sending Hope , a nonprofit that supports people by curating care packages, organizing toy drives/fundraisers, and offering outings to provide a safe space for those with chronic illnesses and special needs. Based in Youngsville, North Carolina, Katie regularly travels for conferences, events, and community outreach. Living with multiple chronic illnesses means Katie has learned to navigate the world with intention. Long days, busy schedules, and hours of sitting are all part of the routine. With this lifestyle staying comfortable and managing fatigue is a top priority.  She uses a manual wheelchair and has tested a variety of cushions to enhance her comfort ant manage her fatigue over the years – from foam to gel and cooling cushions. But when she brought Kalogon’s Orbiter cushion along for an advocacy trip to D.C., she noticed an immediate difference. “I’ve tried foam, gel, and other cooling cushions before,” she told us. “But with  Orbiter, I don’t have to constantly shift or adjust. The cushion does the work for me.”* Kalogon’s Orbiter cushion continuously redistributes pressure and adapts in real-time as the user moves. That built-in responsiveness means Katie can focus on what she’s doing instead of how she’s sitting. “It gives me peace of mind knowing it’s protecting my health,” she shared.  Katie emphasized that beyond comfort, it supports her independence. That includes travel by car and plane, hours at advocacy events, and even time in the field during adaptive hunting trips. It’s easy to bring along, fits into her routine, and doesn’t demand an outlet halfway through the day. She also pointed out how well it handles weather extremes. In cold climates, she’s used other cushions that stiffen up or become unusable, and in summer, many make her sweat. This cushion handled both better. Beyond travel, she’s also tested it during adaptive hunting trips and found that the cushion's redistribution mode and customizable support helped reduce fatigue. “My butt doesn’t get tired as quickly,” she said with a laugh. “It gave me the support I needed without me even thinking about it.” Katie’s next adventures include a trip to L.A. for a conference and some much-needed beach time. Whether she’s advocating for others or just enjoying the ride, her Orbiter’s going with her. “Traveling with chronic illness often means being prepared for anything – and tools like this help me stay comfortable, confident, and more present,” Katie says. Follow Katie’s journey: 🌐 Instagram: @smilingwhilesendinghope 🌐 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmilingWhileSendingHope/ 🌐 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-haynes-86a38113b/ *Kalogon recommends that you continue to perform your offloads as recommended by your clinician.

By Kelly Waugh, PT, MAPT | Clinical Advisor, Kalogon If you’re a wheelchair user (or thinking about getting a wheelchair) and something doesn’t feel right – whether it’s new pain, posture issues, discomfort, or concerns about your skin health – you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Many people assume that once they receive a new wheelchair or seating system, they’re stuck with it until it’s time for a full replacement – often five years later. But that’s simply not true. There are options. And knowing your rights and resources is the first step toward getting the right solution. Here’s what you need to know. You’re Not Stuck With Discomfort It’s a common misconception: “I got this wheelchair a year ago – now I’m in pain, but I probably have to wait four more years to get something new.” In reality, most insurance providers allow for replacement or adjustment of individual wheelchair components, like seat cushions and backrests, every 2 to 3 years. Even small adjustments like changing the seat depth, back angle, or footrest height can make a big difference. If you're experiencing pain, pressure sores, posture issues, or decreased function, something can often be done – you just need the right team to help you. Think of Your Wheelchair Team Like a Medical Team Just like having a trusted primary care doctor makes it easier to manage your health, having a go-to wheelchair evaluation team makes it easier to address seating and mobility problems as they come up. Your original evaluation team probably included: A clinician – typically a Physical Therapist (PT) or Occupational Therapist (OT), who understands the clinical and functional aspects of your seating needs. An ATP or SMS-certified wheelchair supplier – that is, an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) or a Seating and Mobility Specialist (SMS). These are credentialed professionals who specialize in assessing and recommending complex rehab technology like wheelchairs and seating systems. Even if time has passed since your last fitting, that team (or a new one) can help you figure out what’s wrong and what needs to change. So, What Should You Do If You’re Having a Problem? Recognize the issue isn’t just a “repair.” If your concern is pain, posture, skin health, or any other clinical issue it’s about reassessing your setup. That requires clinical insight, not just technical troubleshooting. Go back to your evaluating team. If you liked the therapist and supplier you originally worked with, start there. Contact the clinician (PT, OT, or physician), or call the wheelchair vendor and specifically request an appointment with the ATP or SMS-certified supplier – not a technician. If you need a new team, that’s okay. You have the right to choose your providers. If your original team isn’t available (or you weren’t satisfied with the support) use resources like RESNA’s directory  to find an ATP or SMS-certified supplier and a therapist experienced in wheelchair seating. RESNA  stands for the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America. It’s the professional organization that certifies ATPs and SMSs. Their directory allows you to search for certified professionals in your area, helping ensure you're working with someone qualified in complex rehab and assistive technology. What to Look For in a Good Team When seeking support for a wheelchair or seating issue, here are some key characteristics to look for: Your Therapist Should: Have experience or certification (ATP/SMS) in wheelchair seating and mobility Ask a lot of questions to ensure they understand your seating goals and priorities Advocate for your needs throughout the process Be willing to see you more than once, if needed Suggest trials of products before final recommendations Listen and treat you with respect Your ATP/Supplier Should: Be certified (ATP or SMS) Be willing to participate in fittings and deliveries Offer product trials and follow-ups Have time to assess your individual needs Listen and treat you with respect What If You Accidentally Call the Wrong Person? If you call the complex rehabilitation supplier  and don’t specifically ask for an appointment with an ATP, you might be scheduled with a technician. Technicians are great for installs, repairs and troubleshooting mechanical issues, but they are not the ones who should evaluate and solve clinical seating issues. Empower Yourself With Knowledge A great tool to help you understand the wheelchair and seating process is the My Wheelchair Guide app  (developed by United Spinal Association in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh). It offers: A step-by-step guide to the wheelchair selection process Self-assessments to identify your specific challenges Basic information on cushion and backrest options Links to certified providers in your area Final Takeaways If you’re dealing with pain, posture changes, skin issues, or a general feeling that something isn’t working right, don’t wait it out. Reach out to the right professionals and treat the situation like you would a full wheelchair evaluation. You have a say in who’s on your team – and your comfort, health, and independence depend on choosing people who are qualified and ready to support you. Have questions about Kalogon’s adaptive seating technology? We’re always happy to talk through options and guide you toward the right resources. Contact us  today.

The company now offers a full wheelchair seating system, combining a 3D-printed back support with acclaimed pressure management cushions Melbourne, Fla. (June 17, 2024) - Kalogon ,   the market leader in smart seating solutions, today announced the launch of Bondar  – a new Medicare-coded custom-fabricated wheelchair back support. Bondar provides wheelchair users with a full seating system when paired with Orbiter Med , Kalogon’s custom smart seat cushion, offering a simple and fast process from assessment to installation.  Custom-fit to each user’s unique body shape, Bondar is a 3D-printed back support designed for people who need additional postural correction or support from their wheelchairs. Based on clinical feedback, Kalogon designed Bondar to be user-friendly for installation and adjustments. The mounting system is easy to lock in place and remove, with fewer screws and steps to fit than most backrests on the market today. The powerful combination of Bondar and Orbiter Med offers customers a fully coded system that supports overall seated health, including better respiratory function, digestion and mental well-being. “Many seating assessments begin with facilitating posture, which is determined by the position of the pelvis and spine,” said Tim Balz, CEO and co-founder, Kalogon. “A seat cushion and back support must work harmoniously to deliver effective postural support and increase duration of sitting time. That’s why we developed a custom back support designed to complement our Orbiter Med seat cushions – together, they form a complete seating system that offers a holistic approach to seating tolerance, support and quality of life.” Seating specialists – such as assistive technology professionals, occupational therapists, and physical therapists – can order Bondar custom-fit for clients on Kalogon’s interactive real-time configurator. As they input precise measurements, a 360-degree image of the custom order updates in real time, allowing specialists to visualize the final product. This interactive ordering process helps eliminate guesswork and reduces costly remakes, which are common when back supports arrive significantly different from what was expected during the ordering process. After selecting Bondar, customers can complete their system with Orbiter Med, powered by its novel Advanced Pressure Management System (APMS), which intelligently redistributes 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. As covered in Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology , Kalogon’s APMS has been shown to enhance tissue oxygenation in the gluteal region for non-disabled people while seated.  Bondar has received the E2617 code from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to bill Medicare. Clinicians and seating specialists can order Bondar and any Orbiter cushion by contacting Kalogon to be connected to their local representative at Kalogon.com . About Kalogon We empower individuals to lead active, seated lives. Kalogon is the trailblazer in smart seating solutions for medical, aviation and automotive customers. Kalogon's patent-pending Advanced Pressure Management System (APMS) offers adaptive customizations, ambient adjustments and personalized settings. 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   ###

We’ve been joining some incredible hosts on recent podcasts to explore the future of mobility and innovation. From disruptive solutions in personal mobility to cutting-edge applications of AI and dual-use technologies, Kalogon is proud to be part of the dialogue shaping what’s next. These conversations dive into how emerging tech intersects with real-world impact — especially in defense innovation, accessibility, and adaptive design. 🎧 Stay tuned and follow along as we share insights, challenge the status quo, and highlight the people and ideas driving meaningful change. Revolutionizing Mobility: Tim Balz on Smart Cushion Technology & Disability Innovation Military Leadership, Service, & Innovation with Air Force Engineer Amanda Krantz From Startup to GovCon Success with Tim Balz AI-Powered Cushions That Heal: How Kalogon Is Redefining Mobility and Comfort

As December begins, two significant occasions shine a spotlight on the importance of inclusivity and giving back: Giving Tuesday (December 3) and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3). These days remind us to uplift and support individuals with disabilities and champion organizations making a real impact. Why These Days Matter The International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebrates the resilience, contributions, and rights of over 1 billion people globally living with disabilities. It highlights the importance of creating an inclusive, equitable world for all. Giving Tuesday, held annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, encourages generosity, inspiring people worldwide to support causes that matter most to them. Together, these days create the perfect opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Causes Worth Supporting This Giving Tuesday, consider donating to organizations that empower people with disabilities. Here are a few impactful causes: 1. 2Gether International Disabled people are historically underserved by resources and programs targeting entrepreneurs. 2GI seeks to challenge the entrepreneurial ecosystem by supporting founders with disabilities, and flipping the narrative to see disability as a competitive advantage for businesses. https://www.2gether-international.org/ Annual Gala December 5th, 2025 https://gala2024.2gether-international.org/ 2. Hope Help Live For 40 years, Help Hope Live has been showing clients and families how to bring together a network of relatives, friends, and neighbors in fundraising efforts to help cover the cost of uninsured medical expenses. These efforts play a critical role in helping our clients recover and maintain their health and independence. https://helphopelive.org/ 3. The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Focused on curing spinal cord injuries and improving the quality of life for individuals with paralysis, this foundation funds groundbreaking research and provides support programs for families and caregivers. https://www.christopherreeve.org/ 4. North American Spinal Cord Injury Consortium For 40 years, Help Hope Live has been showing clients and families how to bring together a network of relatives, friends, and neighbors in fundraising efforts to help cover the cost of uninsured medical expenses. These efforts play a critical role in helping our clients recover and maintain their health and independence. https://nascic.org/ 5. Smiling While Sending Hope This nonprofit uplifts individuals with disabilities by creating care packages, fostering hope, and raising awareness about rare diseases and disabilities. Donations help fund these thoughtful efforts and spread smiles to those who need it most. https://www.facebook.com/SmilingWhileSendingHope/ 6. Ainsley's Angels of America This nonprofit spreads inclusion by providing adaptive running equipment and opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in endurance events. Donations help cover the cost of specialized equipment and event participation fees. https://ainsleysangels.org/ 7. All Wheels Up ​​All Wheels Up is a 100% volunteer organization, driven entirely by dedicated volunteers passionate about making air travel accessible for all. Their mission is to increase awareness for safer and more dignified accessible air travel through research and advocacy. https://allwheelsup.org/ 8. Next Step Orlando NextStep Orlando is an affordable, state-of-the-art, community-based paralysis recovery and fitness center. By offering standardized activity-based therapy programs and interventions, based on research; our center provides the best chance for recovery, independence, and health. https://www.nextstepfitness.org/about-nextstep-orl 9. CORE Foundation - Center for Recovery and Exercise The mission of the CORE Foundation is to provide needed financial support and education for individuals with spinal cord injuries and other neurological conditions to participate in an activity-based recovery program. CORE provides an Activity Based Training program to optimize the function, health, & independence for those with paralysis from spinal cord injuries and other neurological injuries/disorders. https://coreflorida.com/ 10. Wheely Big Dreams Wheely Big Dreams strives to improve the quality of life for those with life altering physical disabilities. Through increased education, support, enhanced integration strategies, and adaptive technology, we envision a world where disabilities are not all encompassing, rather hardships that can be overcome. By way of public engagement, community outreach, and one-on-one support, Wheely Big Dreams will create a better life for those we are supporting. https://www.wheelybigdreams.com/ How You Can Help Donate: Every dollar counts. Consider a one-time or recurring donation to organizations that align with your values. Volunteer: Share your time and skills with local disability-focused organizations. Raise Awareness: Use your voice on social media to amplify the importance of inclusivity and the work of these organizations. Shop with Purpose: Look for businesses that employ individuals with disabilities or donate a portion of sales to relevant causes. Together, We Can Create Change By combining the spirit of generosity with a commitment to inclusivity, we can make Giving Tuesday and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities a time of meaningful action. Support organizations that are paving the way for a more equitable world and help individuals with disabilities Live Active, Seated Lives.

Our Founder & CEO Tim Balz visited South Korea in November to participate in the Hyundai Motor Group Open Innovation Lounge. We created a prototype seat utilizing our patent-pending air cell technology found in our Kalogon products. The Kalogon Team learned so much from the team at HMG during the the process, and we hope to continue working with them to develop our prototype further. Interview with Tim 1) Give an overview of your company and vision. "Hello. My name is Tim Balz, CEO of Kalogon. Kalogon creates innovative solutions by focusing on the science of sitting. We started with people with the greatest need, those with limited mobility who use wheelchairs. We've since expanded our technology to improve the comfort and performance of seating. From supporting US Air Force pilots to those who experience discomfort while driving." 2) What tech solution innovation did Kalogon annouce at the 2023 OI LOUNGE? "Kalogon is so excited to introduce our air management system technology for the OI Lounge. We can't wait for you to come experience the future of seating." 3) How were these tech solutions used, and what were the benefits? "We incorporated our technology into the driver's seat so that when you sit down, this cushion will automatically custom mold to your body. Next, you'll feel the cushion perform these strategic redistributions so that blood flow is not cut off for an extended period of time. This is what gives you that incredible driving experience." 4) Comment on your experience leading up to the OI Lounge in Seoul. "We have so enjoyed working both with HATCI and Hyundai Motor Group through the OI Lounge process. This process has enabled us to bring our small, innovative company technologies to one of the most respected OEMs in the world. We've learned so much and greatly appreciate the experience." 5) What do you forsee for the future of Hyundai Motor's technology? "The future for Hyundai Motor Group Technology is bright. A company that's working so hard to ensure that it always keeps the most innovative technologies in its vehicles is bound to continue to change the way this industry innovates." 6) What was your experience at the Open Innovation Lounge? "The Open Innovation Lounge brought together over a dozen companies from multiple industries who have created innovations which have the potential to change the status quo in the auto industry. It was exciting getting to spend time with so many innovative startups from around the world. We got to speak to experts from across Hyundai Motor Group's organization. Conclusion Our time working with HMG for the OI Lounge was an exciting endeavor that a reinforced our commitment to innovation. Kalogon's journey with HMG has not only strengthened our global connections, but has also opened new doors for future collaborations. We hope to bring what we’ve learned working with this automotive OEM back to our customers as we develop new products. Stay tuned! Subscribe to our newsletter and be the first to know at www.kalogon.com