If you know my Dad you know he is one of the strongest, kindest, most selfless people, and my personal hero.  Though he is all of these things, he also has multiple sclerosis.  This disease effects every person differently, and it has had a significant impact on my family, and more importantly on him. 17 years ago, when he was first diagnosed, we didn't have to change our family dynamic much.  He was independent and doing great.  As the years went by he struggled to control his body in the way he used to; he went from walking on his own, to using a cane, a walker and now is in an electric wheel chair.  This hasn't stopped him though, not in the least bit.  Growing up my dad was my sisters' and my biggest fan, our greatest supporter.  He was at every sports game my older sister ever played in, he helped me learn to drive when no one should have allowed me behind a wheel, and supported my younger sister in all the work she did in our community.  Sometimes it was hard to remember that he had MS.  
However, his mobility after all these years is extremely limited.  The electric wheel chair he has is a great help and allows him to move about his home.  However, moving about outside his home is a different story.  Currently, my parents have a van, with a wheelchair hitch attached to the back.  This leaves him with the task of getting up from his wheelchair and into the van, a task that at this point he is not able to do anymore.  My mother is left with the task of loading his wheelchair onto the hitch, leaving her soaking when it rains, sweating buckets when it is hot, and exhausted no matter the weather or place.  But we are a family and we'll do anything to help my father get out of the house and back into the world.  
Recently, our hitch has broken.  And the realization that our family needs a van with better options for my father and mother has become infinitely evident.   
Therefore my parents would like to purchase a van that will allow my father to drive his wheelchair into the car, instead of him having to transfer from his wheel chair to the car seat.  This would allow my father to be able to easily get in and out of his car and ultimately get back into the world, be more independent and enjoy life again.  This would allow my mother the independence she needs, and give her support when there is no one around to help.
These handicapable cars are an answered prayer for my mother and a dream come true for my father.  However, as wonderful as they are, they do not exactly fit the budget for my mother who has been a school teacher for 30 years, and my father who has been on disability for 10 years.  
We need this 4,000 to help with the down payment for this amazing vehicle.  To lessen the financial stress for this amazing couple who are already dealing with so much because of this disease.  And to help my parents regain a life they have longed for, for so long.  
My parents are the most amazing people both individually and together.  We would be so grateful for all and any help.  Thank you.