Travelling Without Limits: Exploring 25 Countries with the WHILL C2
Some journeys are measured in miles, others in determination. Since finding the WHILL C2, Lachlan Campbell has rediscovered the independence and confidence to travel the world while living with Motor Neurone Disease. He explains how perseverance and the right mindset has helped him establish a fundraising initiative and explore 25 countries across Europe.
From the cobbled streets of Krakow, to the dramatic landscapes of the Dolomites and Croatia’s Krka National Park, the WHILL C2 has been a constant companion on an unforgettable European adventure spanning 25 countries, before the family returned home near Fort William. For Lachlan, his WHILL C2 is more than a powered chair; it’s an opening to experiences, helping him to continue creating memories with his family, and to embrace life without compromise.
Living with MND and supporting others
“I’m a husband, a father to four and living with MND.”Lachlan was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in December 2021 following years of tests and ongoing symptoms. A carpenter and joiner by trade, he had built his life around hard work, family and staying active.
Away from work, Lachlan competed in the traditional Highland sport of Shinty at the highest level and maintained a single-figure golf handicap. Remaining active was a huge part of his identity. Until May 2025, he continued running his business, supporting his family and pursuing the activities he loved.
As his condition progressed, however, everyday mobility became increasingly challenging. “I had so many falls that I lost count.”As MND began to affect more aspects of daily life, Lachlan faced growing concerns about maintaining independence and supporting his family. “There was a fear of not being able to pay my bills or support my family. In the back of mind I was thinking, imagine having young children as well as dealing with all this.”
Determined to create something positive from his circumstances, Lachlan founded MindNotDefeated (MND), a fundraising initiative that supports families affected by MND. Since launching in 2025, the project has donated £10,000 to three families, with ambitions to support many more in the years ahead.
Regaining Independence with the WHILL Model C2
As walking became increasingly difficult, Lachlan realised he needed a support that would allow him to maintain his independence and continue enjoying life with his family. “We went for a day out to Anstruther and I was really struggling for balance and to walk, we had to return to the van after about 50 yards. At this point, I knew I had to get a mobility support to regain some freedom.
We have three small dogs and I knew also that my wife had her hands full with them, so I needed independence as well as the freedom to move. I’d seen someone with the WHILL C2 on holiday and was amazed by the way it moved and how sleek it was, it looked effortless. The C2 has been an absolute lifeline with its range, usability, sturdiness, manoeuvrability – the list goes on. I very much doubt we would have gone abroad at all if it wasn’t for the WHILL C2.”Lachlan explains.
After this, the WHILL Model C2’s compact design, impressive range and ability to tackle a variety of terrains gave Lachlan the confidence to start planning something much bigger than day trips.
A European Adventure Across 25 Countries
With the freedom and confidence provided by his WHILL C2, Lachlan and his family set off on the adventure of a lifetime.
Travelling across 25 countries, they explored some of Europe’s most iconic cities, landscapes and historic sites. From the cobbled streets of Krakow to the mountains and coastline of Montenegro to the solemn ground of Auschwitz, and the boardwalk paths of the Krka Waterfalls in Croatia, every destination offered moments to explore and reflect.
Their journey took them through the alpine scenery of Switzerland and Austria, the historic cities of Romania and Bulgaria, and the breathtaking lakes of the Balkans, before continuing into the dramatic Dolomites and climbing to the Passo Pordoi mountain pass. From there, they explored Italy’s historic cities, travelled along the South of France and Spain’s eastern coastline, before making their way back through western France and finally returning home to Fort William.
Along the way, Lachlan encountered every kind of terrain imaginable, from historic cobbles and wooden boardwalks, uneven ground and even the steep inclines of San Marino, which gave Lachlan the reliability and confidence to enjoy every destination without worrying about accessibility.
Reflecting on the journey, Lachlan says: “It was a trip of a lifetime, none of it would have been possible without the WHILL C2, it didn’t let me down once, not one single issue, even getting on and off public transport was a doddle in the WHILL.”
Why Freedom and Independence Matter
Travel has always been an important part of Lachlan’s life, and being able to continue exploring despite the challenges of MND has had a profound impact on his wellbeing. We asked Lachlan what having the freedom and independence to continue exploring the world means to him personally. “It can’t be stated highly enough that this powerchair allows me to live life to the fullest and that is really important for mental health and all round positivity. It has allowed me to fulfil a life long passion to explore, which alone gives me great contentment.”
His story is a powerful reminder that mobility supports aren’t simply about getting from A to B. It’s about maintaining independence, preserving confidence and continuing to experience the people, places and passions that make life meaningful.
Lachlan’s Advice for Others Considering a Powered Wheelchair
Finally, we asked Lachlan what he would say to someone living with mobility challenges who worries that using a powered wheelchair might limit their lifestyle rather than enhance it. “I would say ‘do not consider anything else other than the WHILL C2’.”
For Lachlan, finding the right mobility support has opened the door to new experiences, unforgettable adventures and the freedom to keep exploring the world on his own terms.
Photography by: Lachlan Campbell
