Who we are

De'Aires, also known as Ray Peterson, is the visionary founder and inventor behind the Octo-Grip. After a spinal cord injury left him as a quadriplegic, De'Aires faced immense challenges but demonstrated remarkable resilience. Confined to a wheelchair for over eight years and initially losing his ability to speak due to a tracheotomy, he defied the odds by gradually weaning himself off the trach and regaining his voice. During this time, he channeled his creativity into projects like the "Rolling Pals" coloring book and the comic "SUPER WIHEELIE: A WHEELCHAIR SUPERHERO."

De'Aires didn't stop there. After struggling with various straps to help him eat, write, and create, he identified a need for a better tool—one that could easily switch between attachments, be cleaned efficiently, and removed independently by the user. This realization led to the invention of the Octo-Grip, a multifunctional device that empowers users to handle daily tasks with ease. Inspired by his personal struggles, De'Aires secured a patent for his innovative design and founded Octo-Sci, a company dedicated to creating products for people with disabilities by someone who truly understands their challenges.

With a decade of experience living with a disability, Ray is committed to empowering others facing similar obstacles. His determination and insights offer invaluable support to those with disabilities, particularly wheelchair users. Through his work, Ray continues to advocate for accessibility, inspiring others to see challenges as opportunities for growth and to live fulfilling lives without limitations.