Tom’s wheelchair accessible van fundraiser

My name is Jim Nierzwick. My brother Tom Nierzwick is a quadriplegic and is in desperate need of a new handicap accessible van. His current van, which is his only means of transportation is almost 25 years old and is not safe for him to even load into. Sadly, rust has not only eroded the body, it has compromised the structure and lift. It is virtually impossible and dangerous to transfer Tom into a vehicle that is not handicap equipped.

Here is just a bit of background on Tom. He has been a quad for over forty years. He was injured in a diving accident and since his initial convalescence, he has lived in his own home without the benefit of paid help. He lives life on his terms and independently navigates life himself. Tom has a few close friends and relatives who help him with things that he can’t physically do, but make no mistake, Tom cares for himself and all of his daily needs.

Tom survives on very limited income. The small amount of disability that he receives barely covers his necessities of daily living. A new handicap accessible van is financially out of reach.

Tom’s van is his lifeline. Without it, he is home bound, depending on others for all of his needs. He has no ability to go to doctor appointments or attend any outside activities.

Please consider a donation to this fundraiser so that we may help Tom to get reliable transportation once again. We know it will be an uphill battle and it may take some time, but with your help, we can make it happen.

Any help that you can give will get Tom closer to being able to purchase a new van. We are making progress but we are still significantly short of reaching our goal for Tom. Please help us by not only donating, but sharing this fundraiser with your friends and family.

We humbly thank those of you who have already donated.