Hi friends,

Rowan's illness is so rare that doctors at Children's National Medical Center do not have a diagnosis for him. It all started when Rowan had six days of a high fever and tested positive for flu. Our pediatrician suggested we take him to he Emergency Room for an IV drip. After 11 hours under observation, when all of Rowan's other blood tests came back normal, we were discharged/pushed out.

Just a few hours later, Rowan started seizing at home. The entire way to Children's National Medical, Rowan seized uncontrollably. During the three nights at the hospital, I saw Rowan's life hang in the balance.

For the next 11 days, Rowan was intubated and in a coma. He was completely unresponsive until the 11th day when his left eye started to blink ever so slowly. We all rejoiced when he finally opened his eye that day.

Today, Rowan needs complete and total assistance to walk, talk, and eat. The seizures left extensive damage to all parts of his brain including the brain steam and myelin sheath.

Rowan is growing every day and I currently transfer him from the bed to the car outside by carrying him. As he continues to grow, it has become increasingly difficult for me to transfer him since he's such a tall boy! I have been doing my best to support Rowan on my own as a single mom and so, a wheelchair-accessible van for Rowan would:

- Provide safe and reliable transportation to Rowan’s many medical appointments at Children's Hospital

-Allow him to travel comfortably to medical appointments, therapies, school, family outings, and significantly expand his world

- Support Rowan’s long-term mobility as he grows. A wheelchair-accessible van would be a lasting solution that grows with Rowan as he gets older, ensuring he can continue traveling safely while remaining in his wheelchair as his size and needs change.

We recognize that there are many families in need, and I am deeply grateful for the fact that there are many ways to possibly obtain a wheelchair van whether that's through grants, trying to earn the funds through side jobs or donations from generous donors.

Whether you donate, share the fundraiser, or simply cheer us on to meet our goal, thank you. Your support means more than you know.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us create a more accessible future for Rowan!

With gratitude,

Sarah & Rowan ❤️