Grandpa's Creative Construction

About Us

I have a young grandson who was born in 1998 without use of his legs or one arm and very limited use of his left hand. He can neither speak nor swallow. The needs of my grandson opened my eyes even more to the obstacles faced by those who are disabled. I have built several different pieces of equipment in the last few years to help enhance my grandson's life. When the doctors, nurses, therapists and others have come to visit my grandson they have said, "please consider doing these projects for others." I have decided to devote my remaining years to the needs of the disabled. Since I have always liked to "tinker" with equipment, this has been an easy transition.

My wife and I have started "G.C.C., Grandpa's Creative Construction," a small company specializing in the needs of the disabled. We first provide a consultation in the patient's home at no cost. With the help of the family, therapist, doctor or other interested parties, we together develop a plan to solve a particular problem. Sometimes the problem can be solved with something that is commercially available. Usually, however, we find that we must invent or develop a solution to the client's need.

Most of the items we build are one-of-a-kind that are designed for a special client. We tend to look for simple ways to solve the need. Smart technology (a high tech word for common sense) is a term we use - it means we may have to solve it with a high tech or no tech answer. We tend to look towards smart technology to keep costs down and operation simple. With small children, sometimes all we have to do is install a simple switch in an electric or electronic toy to make it possible for the child to control it. We may build a unique piece of furniture to enable a person to take a more active part with the family or friends. Sometimes we use a welder and steel supports to make a bath entry and exit more possible and safer for the client.

Please feel free to call us and chat if you feel we may be of service to you or someone you know. We are here to help.

~Francis & Charlene Patnode