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The “Uber” Master of Life
Project SummaryBefore suffering a brain hemorrhage, Roland Erichsen was the world’s first 5-star Uber driver. Now he wants to return to his daily work routine with a vehicle that has been modified to be accessible, while also creating a mobility service that gives people in wheelchairs greater freedom and independence.
Background
Five years ago, a brain hemorrhage changed my life in the blink of an eye. Since then, I’ve been confined to a wheelchair. But my story doesn’t begin there.
At age 60, I took early retirement. But I soon realized that something essential was missing: connecting with people, being on the go, and living life outdoors. That’s why I decided to take a new path, passed the taxi exam, and started driving for Uber as a hobby.
I could never have imagined what happened next.
After about two years, I was contacted by Uber Switzerland: I was the world’s first 5-star Uber driver. This was followed by a promotional video, significant media coverage with TV appearances, and numerous news reports. My story touched many people. I then wrote the book “ÜBER UBER,” in which I documented my experiences—this, too, received widespread public attention. (Enter “Roland Erichsen Uber” in Google for links and information).
Even Volvo took notice of me and supported me for five years with a sponsored vehicle. I got to experience how a simple idea turned into a success story.
Then came the brain hemorrhage.
During my seven-month stay at the Nottwil Paraplegic Center, I received comprehensive support in many areas—including the barrier-free renovation of my living situation (elevator, bathroom, garage). This institution continues to support me to this day.
Read moreAt age 60, I took early retirement. But I soon realized that something essential was missing: connecting with people, being on the go, and living life outdoors. That’s why I decided to take a new path, passed the taxi exam, and started driving for Uber as a hobby.
I could never have imagined what happened next.
After about two years, I was contacted by Uber Switzerland: I was the world’s first 5-star Uber driver. This was followed by a promotional video, significant media coverage with TV appearances, and numerous news reports. My story touched many people. I then wrote the book “ÜBER UBER,” in which I documented my experiences—this, too, received widespread public attention. (Enter “Roland Erichsen Uber” in Google for links and information).
Even Volvo took notice of me and supported me for five years with a sponsored vehicle. I got to experience how a simple idea turned into a success story.
Then came the brain hemorrhage.
During my seven-month stay at the Nottwil Paraplegic Center, I received comprehensive support in many areas—including the barrier-free renovation of my living situation (elevator, bathroom, garage). This institution continues to support me to this day.
Idea
My goal is to return to work as an Uber driver—this time with a broader vision: I want to transport people in wheelchairs and enable them to participate in life affordably, spontaneously, and on their own terms. Whether it’s for doctor’s appointments, visits with friends, or even a night out. From my own experience, I know just how important this freedom is. As a sign of my gratitude and appreciation, I also want to donate CHF 1.00 to the foundation for every single ride, thereby giving back some of the support I myself have been fortunate enough to receive.
Today, I find myself at a new point in my life. Much has changed—but one thing has remained: my desire to be among people, to work, and to do something meaningful.
I am now 72 years old and highly motivated to continue participating actively in life and in my daily work. My goal is to continue working as an Uber driver for at least another five years—or longer. I am also planning another book titled “ABOUT UBER – The ‘Uber-survivor.’”
Read moreToday, I find myself at a new point in my life. Much has changed—but one thing has remained: my desire to be among people, to work, and to do something meaningful.
I am now 72 years old and highly motivated to continue participating actively in life and in my daily work. My goal is to continue working as an Uber driver for at least another five years—or longer. I am also planning another book titled “ABOUT UBER – The ‘Uber-survivor.’”
Implementation
I am convinced that my story is not yet over. I want to continue it—and make a difference for others in the process.
However, I lack the essential foundation to carry out this project: a suitable vehicle (e.g., a VW Bus or a V-Class) that can be modified accordingly.
After a long search, I found a VW T6 Extra Long bus with 127,000 km in Langenthal near Bern, but it needs to be modified to accommodate two wheelchairs during transport.
I deliberately chose a used vehicle worth around CHF 34,500 to keep costs as low as possible while still creating a reliable, long-term solution.
When I explained to the “Diesel Fritz” garage in Langenthal that this VW bus was to be converted to be wheelchair-accessible so that it could later be used with Uber to give people in wheelchairs more freedom and mobility, the owner reacted completely spontaneously and with great generosity. Without a moment’s hesitation, he said he wanted to support this project as well and, on his own initiative, donated CHF 2,500 toward the purchase of the VW bus.
Thanks to this generous support, the official purchase price of the vehicle has been reduced to CHF 32,000. This spontaneous willingness to help touched me deeply and showed me that people can achieve great things together when a vision comes from the heart.
I have already received approval from Uber Europe to resume driving via the app. An operational launch would therefore already be possible in principle. I have also successfully passed the medical fitness test and the driving exam.
Of course, I am willing to contribute financially to the implementation of this project within the limits of my means. However, the costs for the necessary conversion alone amount to CHF 38,600.–. Together with other associated expenses, the total costs amount to approximately CHF 70,600, which unfortunately exceeds my financial means.
That is why I am turning to you with great hope.
With your support, you will not only enable my return to work but also help create a service that makes a real difference for many people in wheelchairs.
Read moreHowever, I lack the essential foundation to carry out this project: a suitable vehicle (e.g., a VW Bus or a V-Class) that can be modified accordingly.
After a long search, I found a VW T6 Extra Long bus with 127,000 km in Langenthal near Bern, but it needs to be modified to accommodate two wheelchairs during transport.
I deliberately chose a used vehicle worth around CHF 34,500 to keep costs as low as possible while still creating a reliable, long-term solution.
When I explained to the “Diesel Fritz” garage in Langenthal that this VW bus was to be converted to be wheelchair-accessible so that it could later be used with Uber to give people in wheelchairs more freedom and mobility, the owner reacted completely spontaneously and with great generosity. Without a moment’s hesitation, he said he wanted to support this project as well and, on his own initiative, donated CHF 2,500 toward the purchase of the VW bus.
Thanks to this generous support, the official purchase price of the vehicle has been reduced to CHF 32,000. This spontaneous willingness to help touched me deeply and showed me that people can achieve great things together when a vision comes from the heart.
I have already received approval from Uber Europe to resume driving via the app. An operational launch would therefore already be possible in principle. I have also successfully passed the medical fitness test and the driving exam.
Of course, I am willing to contribute financially to the implementation of this project within the limits of my means. However, the costs for the necessary conversion alone amount to CHF 38,600.–. Together with other associated expenses, the total costs amount to approximately CHF 70,600, which unfortunately exceeds my financial means.
That is why I am turning to you with great hope.
With your support, you will not only enable my return to work but also help create a service that makes a real difference for many people in wheelchairs.
Initiators
Roland Erichsen
Im Steingarten 7
8914 Aeugst am Albis
Read moreIm Steingarten 7
8914 Aeugst am Albis
There are no updates available
| Yvonne Waldraff | 200,00 CHF |
| Nadja Käppeli | 50,00 CHF |
| Roland erichsen | 50,00 CHF |
| Anonymous | 30,00 CHF |
| Vermittelt durch Swisscom | 225,00 CHF |
| Luana Agustoni | 180,00 CHF |
Currently, there are still no project partners if you are interested, please contact us via info@there-for-you.com.
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6 Supporters
97 days remaining
Impact analysis by there for you specialists
The project effectively combines personal resilience with tangible social benefits by promoting participation, mobility, and self-determination for people who use wheelchairs. What makes it particularly impactful is that it not only aims to enable individuals to make a fresh start but also creates a low-barrier mobility option for a target group that is often overlooked. The initiator’s story also has significant potential for public identification and communication, which can help raise public awareness of the issue of inclusion. From an external perspective, the project’s strength lies in its highly authentic combination of social impact, role model status, and personal credibility.
We will send the donation receipt (for Switzerland) in January of the following year.
Primary Partners
