This is a story about Grace, some of her struggles, and some of the things she loves to do. Grace (Kelly Smith's granddaughter, Kelly is a work colleague of mine) was born with Spina Bifida. Spina Bifida comes with many challenges due to a defect in the development of the spine. The challenges for Grace include paralysis in her legs, bowel and bladder problems, and frequent infections that require medical intervention, like the latest surgery Grace had to endure and is now recovering from.

Grace loves to get outside to play disc golf with her grandpa or go for a hand-crank bike ride. Maybe one day she will play wheelchair basketball! Luckily, Grace's family has taken her to Snow Bowl, where she was able to ski with assistance down the slope last year. Wouldn't it be great if Grace could head out for a hike with her brothers and grandpa? Many of us, myself included, take for granted our health and the ability to ride a bike or go for a hike. I'm sure that Grace would love to have the freedom and excitement of being in control of her own body (but that's not how Grace's life turned out).

This fundraiser is to give Grace some of the joy and freedom many of us take for granted. The "Rig" from the company "Not a Wheelchair" could be a freedom machine for Grace. I can only imagine the surprise, happiness, and laughter when Grace first heads out on an adventure on her new "Rig." The Rig is an off-road vehicle that will give grace access to trails, disc golf courses, or just down the dirt drive to the mail-box.