A Solution That Fits: Jordan’s Story of Comfort, Dignity and Support
Cerebral palsy is a primarily physical disorder affecting movement, balance, and posture, resulting in, amongst other aspects, weak and stiff muscles, leading to poor coordination. Jordan* had been living with this reality since early childhood. Unable to walk, Jordan's bathroom needs were met using a paediatric Tilt-In-Space (TIS) chair. However, with adolescence, a problem arose - he would soon outgrow his paediatric chair, and an adult-sized equivalent wasn't available.
Over the course of two years, Jordan trialled a range of alternative Tilt-in-Space (TIS) bathing solutions. Despite multiple attempts, none were able to fully meet his needs. One had an uncomfortably firm seat. Another featured a rigid plastic back, making it impossible for Jordan to achieve a safe, supported position. A third option wasn’t compatible with his wash/dry toilet.
While some chairs addressed individual challenges, none provided a complete solution. Without the ability to adapt or customise, each one had to be ruled out. After so many unsuccessful trials, Jordan and his family were left feeling understandably disheartened.
“Jordan’s experience is something we see far too often,” explains Martin Tierney. “For individuals living with cerebral palsy, comfort is not a luxury—it’s essential. Equipment designed with hard, inflexible materials simply doesn’t provide the level of support required. Every person’s needs are unique, which is why seating must be adaptable. There should never be a compromise between functionality and comfort—both are equally important in achieving the best outcomes.”
During Jordan’s complimentary joint assessment, the Tide 981 Tilt-in-Space Chair was introduced. Available in infant, paediatric, and adult sizes, it immediately offered a solution that could support Jordan as he grows. The Tide 981 could also be customised to ensure full compatibility with his wash/dry toilet—meeting a key functional requirement for everyday use.
“There should never be a compromise between functionality and comfort—both are equally important.”
Martin Tierney, Managing Director
But beyond functionality, comfort was critical. For individuals with cerebral palsy, seating must support the body, accommodating changes in posture and involuntary movement. The Tide 981 uses Spacer fabric across the back, calf and head supports—a soft, breathable 3D material with built-in cushioning.
This fabric works with the body, not against it. It adapts to individual contours, creating a secure, supportive seating environment while helping to reduce movement and maintain a safe, midline position. It is also kind to the skin and quick-drying, making it ideal for use in bathing routines.
The Tide 981 also includes adjustable tension straps, allowing support levels to be fine-tuned over time as Jordan’s needs evolve—ensuring long-term comfort and clinical effectiveness.
With a choice of eight seating options, Jordan was able to find the configuration that suited him best. A protective skirt was added for use with the wash/dry toilet, and he personalised the chair with his preferred frame and fabric colours—at no additional cost.
The result was a solution that truly met Jordan’s needs—clinically, functionally, and emotionally.
The Tide 981 not only provided the support required for safe bathing but also delivered a level of comfort that made a visible difference to Jordan’s daily experience. His response said it all.
*Due to the sensitivities of medical conditions, names have been changed to protect privacy and images used are for illustrative purposes only.