A wheelchair footrest retraction device has been developed to allow wheelchair users to easily retract the footrest and have assistance as they rise from the wheelchair. The device includes a handle that can be rotated by the user from a horizontal to a vertical position where it can then be used to provide support as the user rises from the wheelchair. Rotation of the handle acts to retract the footrest through a series of linkages that transmit force from the handle to the footrest. The device also includes a support post that prevents the wheelchair from tipping forward as the user rises from the wheelchair.