Today I met a new friend named Cérge……

The Cérge app worked perfectly and it’s a great service… even my Support Worker was impressed… lol

I arrived at Peregian Beach IGA to meet Cérge and do a little shopping, having advised them earlier I was on my way.

As I use a wheelchair when in shopping centres due to balance issues, I had my Support Worker with me on this visit.

At this time of the year, people are usually tense and somewhat short-tempered, so yes, I do avoid shopping centres approaching Christmas season… funny that Christmas brings out the worse in people at times (lol), so I hoped today using Cérge would ease some anxiety and I could have an enjoyable shopping experience.

Unfortunately one small concern. The footpath leading to IGA’s front door was completely blocked with trolleys (who didn’t quite make it to the trolley corral) requiring my Support Worker to round them up and send them “home” so I could keep wheeling past.

Once inside the store I was greeted by the lovely Amber who couldn’t have been more helpful, asking what I needed to make my shopping experience the best possible and assuring me that she would be happy to assist me in any way I wished.

When I explained I had my Support Worker with me for assistance, Amber informed me she was happy to help in any way if needed.

I did tell Amber about the wayward trolleys and she apologised and said she would advise management about that issue, which was the perfect response!

At the checkout Jake did a great job in processing my groceries and he actually talked to me rather than my Support Worker, which I really appreciated as all too often, people talk over you when you are in a wheelchair… good job Jake!

As it is approaching Christmas, it’s understandable there is a little more product in the aisleways than usual, but everywhere was accessible. As I was departing the store, there was one section where my wheelchair barely fit between the wall and some flowerpots, but a staff member ensured I could fit through and was prepared to move the flowerpot if needed, much appreciated.

On my way to the car I noticed all the trolleys were happily in their paddock, so perhaps Amber followed up?

My SW is a needed support because Cérge isn’t everywhere yet, but certainly Amber and Jake (particularly Amber who said she would be happy to accompany me and assist me with my shopping) gives me total confidence that I wouldn’t need my SW at an IGA store now that Cérge is “on duty”.

All in all, a wonderful shopping experience… and I’ll certainly be back again for the free coffee

White's IGA Peregian Beach Audio Guide