Alex's AdVANtage
Donation protected
Hello,
My name is Alex Martin, I am 24 years old and have SMA III, which is a form of muscular dystrophy. I also have a significant curvature of the spine. Growing up I didn't know many people with disabilities so most of my friends were able bodied. I remember playing at recess and being in gym class watching my class mates do things that I couldn’t. I would wonder why I was born like this, I wondered why God allowed me to have a disability, and I would get upset thinking about it which often brought me to tears.
At the age of 11, I went to the MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) Camp which opened my eyes to what people with disabilities can do, which is more than I ever thought possible. While there I went swimming, canoeing, rock climbing, zip lining and so much more. I also met many other people with muscular dystrophy. This was the first time that I could relate to friends. I learned that you shouldn’t let a disability hold you back. Someone with a disability can do anything; they just need assistance. I also learned that there are others out there who share my struggles. The experiences I had and the people I met at camp during the 5 years I attended were such a huge help and taught me so much.
Transportation for me has been difficult the majority of my life as I depend on others to get me to where I need to be. I currently have an agency that assists with daily care needs and will occasionally drive me to appointments, etc.. There are times when the caregiver cannot get me into their vehicle so I then cancel the appointment. Up until the agency started working for me, my mom and dad were my primary mode of transportation; however, it has become increasingly difficult for my parents to lift me to get me in their car. Depending on other people for what you need is already difficult, but to worry about whether or not I can get into their vehicle is mentally exhausting. It is already hard for me to be independent because of the daily assistance that I require. Having a handicap accessible van would make things safer for all involved and allow me to gain more independence in addition to peace of mind.
I recently graduated from Wright State University with a Liberal Studies bachelor’s degree and with that comes student loans so it would be several years before I could afford to purchase a vehicle. Having transportation would also help me in my search for a job. I would be extremely grateful to anyone who helps me reach my goal so that I can find a job, enjoy more independence and peace of mind.
I’m also working with family on a fund raiser to raise funds for the van, “Cards for Alex’s Van”, https:www.facebook.com/events/1227946733883270/?ti=icl
Sincerely,
Alex Martin
My name is Alex Martin, I am 24 years old and have SMA III, which is a form of muscular dystrophy. I also have a significant curvature of the spine. Growing up I didn't know many people with disabilities so most of my friends were able bodied. I remember playing at recess and being in gym class watching my class mates do things that I couldn’t. I would wonder why I was born like this, I wondered why God allowed me to have a disability, and I would get upset thinking about it which often brought me to tears.
At the age of 11, I went to the MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) Camp which opened my eyes to what people with disabilities can do, which is more than I ever thought possible. While there I went swimming, canoeing, rock climbing, zip lining and so much more. I also met many other people with muscular dystrophy. This was the first time that I could relate to friends. I learned that you shouldn’t let a disability hold you back. Someone with a disability can do anything; they just need assistance. I also learned that there are others out there who share my struggles. The experiences I had and the people I met at camp during the 5 years I attended were such a huge help and taught me so much.
Transportation for me has been difficult the majority of my life as I depend on others to get me to where I need to be. I currently have an agency that assists with daily care needs and will occasionally drive me to appointments, etc.. There are times when the caregiver cannot get me into their vehicle so I then cancel the appointment. Up until the agency started working for me, my mom and dad were my primary mode of transportation; however, it has become increasingly difficult for my parents to lift me to get me in their car. Depending on other people for what you need is already difficult, but to worry about whether or not I can get into their vehicle is mentally exhausting. It is already hard for me to be independent because of the daily assistance that I require. Having a handicap accessible van would make things safer for all involved and allow me to gain more independence in addition to peace of mind.
I recently graduated from Wright State University with a Liberal Studies bachelor’s degree and with that comes student loans so it would be several years before I could afford to purchase a vehicle. Having transportation would also help me in my search for a job. I would be extremely grateful to anyone who helps me reach my goal so that I can find a job, enjoy more independence and peace of mind.
I’m also working with family on a fund raiser to raise funds for the van, “Cards for Alex’s Van”, https:www.facebook.com/events/1227946733883270/?ti=icl
Sincerely,
Alex Martin
Organizer and beneficiary
Alex Martin
Organizer
Landen, OH
Kimberly Martin
Beneficiary
