A mobility apparatus having: a base having casters; a handle assembly pivotally attached to the base; a locking mechanism operable to place the handle assembly into a plurality of positions corresponding to an operating mode of the apparatus, and maintain the handle assembly in one of the plurality of positions; an actuating mechanism coupled to the locking mechanism to actuate the locking mechanism; and wherein the locking mechanism comprises: a hub fixedly secured to the base; a hub ring rotatably secured within the hub and comprising attachment means for the handle assembly; a gas spring mechanism coupled to the hub ring to provide a mechanical advantage to assist an operator in lifting a patient; a breaking mechanism for the casters, wherein the breaking mechanism is operable to lock and unlock the casters simultaneously.