An Accessible Van for Abby

As many know, my sister Louise Burke, passed away the morning of September 12th, after her nine month battle with cancer. Leaving behind her husband, Bruce, and three children Courtney (21), Abigail (19) and Jessica (15).

The Burkes Story

The Burke Family has always been a generous and welcoming family to everyone they have met. Anyone who has had the pleasure to know them knows the middle daughter, Abigail, was born with a Pediatric Neurotransmitter Disorder. Abby, as loved ones call her, has never been able to talk, walk, and has the capabilities of an infant. Though Abby communicates with a bright smile, much like her mother, Bruce and Louise have needed to care for her 24/7. Louise had cared for her up until the day she passed away, and now the huge responsibility has fallen on Bruce, Courtney, Jessica and the rest of the family. With one less parent to help, this has truly become a nightmare for all of us.

How you can help

The Burke family has been in need of a handicapped accessible van for years. With Louise gone, it is even harder to transport Abby. As of right now they have a Nissan Altima, which sadly, can not hold her wheelchair or transport Abby safely. This is also the only car available to them, as my brother-in-law needs to take the sedan to work, leaving the girls home with no car access. As Abby gets older there are more doctor appointments to get to, as well as the need to transport her to family members' homes to help. Abigail is a happy girl who should be able to leave the house with her father and sisters. Our family will greatly appreciate any donations given towards the van.