Help Dan get a Handicap Van

I am creating this campaign for my family, specifically my brother, Dan Conway. He is disabled and requires a modified wheelchair van that can accommodate his physical needs. At 19 years old Dan experienced an accidental drug overdose of prescribed medications that led to an emergency trip to the hospital. It was there that we learned that my brother had suffered from cardiac arrest for 20-minutes. Subsequently, we later found out that it was actually a 30-minute cardiac arrest, which usually leaves an individual "brain dead". Cardiac arrest for this length of time leaves the brain without oxygen and causes serious brain damage. The doctor informed us that he would be in a vegetative state and dependant for the rest of his life, unable to eat, walk, or even breath on his own.


Well, due to his persistence and strong will, Dan proved these doctors wrong: he was off the respirator in less then a month. Since this life changing event, Dan continues to progress and develop. He eats pureed foods that my mother, as well as his wonderful aides, feeds him; he is involved in a day program for the disabled, which he attends a couple days throughout the week. Additionally, he has even progressed to the point of being able to enjoy some of his passions that he had before his accident. Thanks to the dedication of my parents and other wonderful people in our life, Dan has been able to go to an adaptive ski program. The program enables Dan to ride in a sled, with assistance, giving him the feeling of snowboarding again.


I am the younger sister to an incredible human being. My brother was an extreme sports enthusiast, which included being an amateur competitive surfer and an avid snowboarder. He was a dedicated and loyal friend, a devoted and caring boyfriend, a loving and thoughtful son, and a protective and generous brother.


Now, here is the reason why we have started this campaign and how your family can help our family!

Our handicap van is no longer in commission. This is an expense we did not foresee. Our family is now in desperate need of a used wheelchair van so my brother can continue to grow and progress. My mother has tirelessly researched used vans to replace the current one. She has finally found a used wheelchair van that will suit Dan needs - one with side ramp entry, wheelchair securing system, etc.

Our family need to purchase the van as soon as possible so that Dan can continue his day program. It is also vitally important to have the van in order to transport Dan to and from his medical appointments, of which there are many of them. Finally, and possibly most important of all, we can never predict when Dan might need to be rushed to the emergency room, which has happened on occasion.  Due to his health issues, we cannot rely on the local ambulance service to get him there on time. This wheelchair van is our only way to transport him there in a matter of minutes.

This financial campaign is very important to me personally. My parents are quite honestly my real life heroes. They have done everything to help Dan progress. But also they have tried their best to give Dan back all that he has lost. They are the most honest and hardworking individuals I have ever encountered. They handle all that life throws at them with grace and dignity. Their strength and love for our entire family is admirable.

 
I want to help reduce the stress on my mother and father from having an unreliable van. But more importantly, I want to see my brother continue to defy all odds and enjoy the small things in life that we all sometimes take for granted.


We would greatly appreciate any support that you can provide our family. You will be aiding in the continued growth and development of my brother, as well as relieving my parents from yet another financial and emotional burden. 

On behalf of my entire family, THANK YOU! We are encouraged by your kindness and honored to be in such good company. God Bless!