Main fundraiser photo

Grace's Race

Donation protected
God blessed us with our first born child on September 16, 1999, Grace Caroline Duhon. As many of you know, she is no ordinary child. She was born with a brain that for unknown reasons didn't form properly. The speech and motor areas were severely affected. Her kind, gentle, loving personality was not. She also has severe scoliosis that will likely require surgery. She may have to talk with her hands and walk a little slower, but she LOVES and hugs better than most anyone we know!!
In honor of her 14th birthday this month, we want to get Grace a gift that we absolutely can't afford. She loves to be outside playing with her sisters. They are now riding bikes and running, which are things she just can't do. We both love to run. Grace has ridden in a Baby Jogger since she was 4 months old, but no longer fits in one (she also puts her hands in the wheel spokes making it unsafe for her).
After contacting Team Hoyt (see their remarkable story at www.teamhoyt.com) about possible options, we were directed to a company that will make a custom push chair for us to push Grace in that will allow her to be outside with us and continue to do what she loves which is RUN! She trained with Phil for his Ironman riding up to 20+ miles at a time in the stroller, waving at all the neighbors as they passed by. Our insurance will not help us with any part of the expense despite the freedom it gives Grace (nor will our insurance cover any type of traditional wheelchair).
We have never received any aide or help of any kind for her disability. For this, however, we are humbly asking for help. The chair is lightweight with adjustable handles to accommodate either of us pushing her since Phil is 6'5" and Danielle is 5'3". The seat moves to adjust for any height change she may have (which should be minimal). It is specifically made to fit her and be comfortable for long distances. It also breaks down to transport easily. Having the chair would also mean that going to the park, mall and even vacations would be easier since Grace would no longer tire walking long distances.
I love this quote by Rick Hoyt, "When I'm running it feels like my disability disappears." This is our prayer for Grace--that she feels like she is able to do things she loves despite her disability. The cost of the chair is a minimum $3500.00 (ridiculous right??) It must be paid before the chair can be made. It will be one of the chairs below, depending on which the company determines is best for Grace. Grace's frame will be pink, Ellie and Sophie's favorite color. We may not be Team Hoyt, but the thought of running (or even racing) pushing Grace one day is something we know our entire family would love. We appreciate any donation amount and especially prayers to help us reach our goal. We are grateful to you all for taking the time to read Grace's story. To know her is to love her.
Blessings,
The Duhon Family
Phil, Danielle, Grace, Ellie and Sophie
"I remain confident of this. I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living" Psalm 27:13













Grace at Special Olympics 2013
Donate

Donations 

  • Michele Ho
    • $50 
    • 11 yrs
Donate

Organizer

Danielle Duhon
Organizer
Austin, TX

Your easy, powerful, and trusted home for help

  • Easy

    Donate quickly and easily.

  • Powerful

    Send help right to the people and causes you care about.

  • Trusted

    Your donation is protected by the  GoFundMe Giving Guarantee.