Handicapped Modified Van & Service Dog For Mikaela
Donation protected
“Mikaela's smile, her courageous determination, and her ability to make anyone feel like they are special and important to her are what stands out to me always when I think of that sweet girl. Watching her enjoy life, taking on the challenges, conquering the "impossibilities", and wearing a smile even through the pain, the frustration, and the uncertainties...I am so grateful she is my friend” -Pam Jones
Mikaela was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita and was given very little odds of ever having a productive life. Her chance of standing was slim and she would certainly never be able to walk. Fast forward almost 18 years and she has defied all the odds and more. She refuses to allow her disability to keep her from living an independent life as well as pursuing her dreams of being a web and graphic designer. Part of that dream and/or goal is driving, however it comes with many challenges:
1 She is unable to manipulate the gas and brake pedals due to her use of leg braces.
2 Her left arm has a 90 degree contracture which limits her use of that arm while driving.
3 Her right arm also has limitations due to weakness and limited range of motion
Great news though...IT IS POSSIBLE with the use a fully modified joystick/computer system which equates to $100,000. Because Mikaela is motivated and is already working on her associates degree as a high schooler and has plans to continue her educational path in order to one day be able to fulfill her dream and support herself, Division of Rehabilitation will assist in the cost of the modifications. However it comes with strict guidelines...It must be a new van (no more than two years old) which makes sense. If you are going to put that much money into a vehicle you want to make sure it lasts. So this is where we are having to humble ourselves and seek the additional support of our friends, family and community. We are hoping to be able to raise as much towards the van as we possibly can seeing how she cannot just go out and purchase any cheap used vehicle. Over the last couple years Mikaela has watched her friends drive off in their own vehicle and is looking forward to the day that she can one day do the same and not always have to rely on others for transportation, especially once she starts her career. We would so appreciate your assistance as we work towards navigating this next stage of her life. ANY amount is truly a blessing! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support, well wishes and prayers!
Note: The van in the photo is not hers. It belongs to the adaptive driving school where she is getting her training.
P.S. If in the end we get more than we need then our plan is to put the additional money towards future home modifications and adaptive equipment for when she is living on her own.
Mikaela was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita and was given very little odds of ever having a productive life. Her chance of standing was slim and she would certainly never be able to walk. Fast forward almost 18 years and she has defied all the odds and more. She refuses to allow her disability to keep her from living an independent life as well as pursuing her dreams of being a web and graphic designer. Part of that dream and/or goal is driving, however it comes with many challenges:
1 She is unable to manipulate the gas and brake pedals due to her use of leg braces.
2 Her left arm has a 90 degree contracture which limits her use of that arm while driving.
3 Her right arm also has limitations due to weakness and limited range of motion
Great news though...IT IS POSSIBLE with the use a fully modified joystick/computer system which equates to $100,000. Because Mikaela is motivated and is already working on her associates degree as a high schooler and has plans to continue her educational path in order to one day be able to fulfill her dream and support herself, Division of Rehabilitation will assist in the cost of the modifications. However it comes with strict guidelines...It must be a new van (no more than two years old) which makes sense. If you are going to put that much money into a vehicle you want to make sure it lasts. So this is where we are having to humble ourselves and seek the additional support of our friends, family and community. We are hoping to be able to raise as much towards the van as we possibly can seeing how she cannot just go out and purchase any cheap used vehicle. Over the last couple years Mikaela has watched her friends drive off in their own vehicle and is looking forward to the day that she can one day do the same and not always have to rely on others for transportation, especially once she starts her career. We would so appreciate your assistance as we work towards navigating this next stage of her life. ANY amount is truly a blessing! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support, well wishes and prayers!
Note: The van in the photo is not hers. It belongs to the adaptive driving school where she is getting her training.
P.S. If in the end we get more than we need then our plan is to put the additional money towards future home modifications and adaptive equipment for when she is living on her own.
Organizer
ShawnandSherry Keene
Organizer
Martinsburg, WV