Michèle Steurbaut, a native of Mouscron, mother of three children, and former administrative agent at ONEM, saw her life take a dramatic turn in 1998 following a cerebral aneurysm rupture. Everything had to be relearned: eating, speaking, living. Retired at just 40 years old, she refused to give up. She took oenology courses, created her company ‘Vents d’Anges SCS’, and became an ambassador for Belgian Ruffus wine in the region.
However, in 2015, a second stroke caused hemiplegia. Michèle had to stop working and face new challenges. Unable to drive, she now travels by scooter and manages her daily life with an autonomy that commands respect. Always smiling, she impresses with her mental strength and her ability to bounce back.
In 2024, a friend suggested an idea to her: to become an influencer for people with reduced mobility. The realization was immediate. “That resonated with me,” she confides. Drawing on her journey, Michèle now wants to inspire, raise awareness, and contribute to making society more inclusive. Because she understands the value… and the importance of accessibility.
Due to being confined by the inaccessibility of public places, people with reduced mobility no longer leave their homes and are therefore “rendered invisible” by society, which then forgets their existence!
Regardless of their disability, PMR individuals fear the numerous access difficulties and the stares of others, who are exasperated by their slowness!
The non-profit organization “PMR- Croquons la vie” rejects this exclusion and wishes that meals, after-work gatherings, and moments spent with family and/or friends be accessible to all!
The objective is simple: to facilitate the lives of millions of people by highlighting restaurants, bars, event venues, etc., that combine accessibility and conviviality.
Each establishment is evaluated according to three main criteria:
Presence of ramps, elevators, adapted restrooms, passage width, etc.
Quality of welcome, cuisine, and affordability of prices.
Restaurants and bars meeting our criteria can obtain a rating and, if they wish, proudly display our label “ACCESSIBLE PMR CROQUONS LA VIE” on their storefront – a guarantee of trust and recognition, like an accessibility Michelin Guide.
We are starting locally, with the goal of expanding our network of listed establishments throughout Picardy, at the crossroads of Flanders, France, and Wallonia, and potentially beyond. Ultimately, we aim to become the essential reference for anyone seeking truly accessible and quality venues.
Because accessibility is a right, not a privilege. Because going out should be synonymous with simplicity and pleasure for all. Because an inclusive society is a richer and more humane society.
Does this project resonate with you? Do you wish to contribute to making our society more inclusive and accessible? Join us! Whether you are passionate about gastronomy, concerned with accessibility issues, or simply motivated to help, we need you. Become a volunteer, test establishments, share your feedback, or help us develop our network. Every action counts. Together, let’s make a difference!
PMR Croquons la Vie, le guide des restaurants accessibles, pour savourer la gastronomie en toute liberté.
PMR Croquons la Vie, the guide to accessible restaurants, to enjoy gastronomy freely.
