Dear Schuyler’s Community,
Since our last fundraiser, Schuyler has continued to make immense progress. With support from the trust, she attends monthly targeted physical therapy at NextStep in Orlando, Florida, where she is getting stronger and closer to walking independently. She has also started aqua therapy and adaptive gymnastics to further build her balance and mobility.
Beyond her physical achievements, Schuyler has built an extraordinary community. She is an active participant in The Ashmere Project, a summer camp for individuals with disabilities, and she was crowned Miss Wheelchair Florida in 2025, going on to compete at Nationals in Michigan.
While these successes are tremendous, Schuyler still faces many challenges — both day-to-day and long-term. In order to support her ongoing medical care and therapy, as well as build financial stability for her future, we are launching a second fundraiser for Schuyler’s Special Needs Trust in recognition of the 10-year anniversary since her accident.
The 2026 Fundraising Campaign
We are launching a 101-day fundraising campaign running from February 19 through May 31, beginning on the 10th anniversary of her accident and ending on her 33rd birthday.
Schuyler is constantly setting (and crushing) goals for herself - to walk down the aisle at Saya’s wedding, use the restroom independently, and travel back to Yale for her 10-year reunion! To celebrate Schuyler’s incredible progress — and to continue investing in her health, independence, and future — we’ll be organizing a New York City-based 10K walk/run to celebrate 10 years of progress, together. We plan to host the NYC 10K on May 31st (Schuy's birthday!), with the possibility of additional local events if there’s interest.
You’re invited to participate in whatever ways feel right for you:
- Join us in NYC for a 10K walk/run on May 31st (Schuy's birthday!). To join us in NYC on 5/31, fill out this form.
- Organize a local 10K in your community if there’s interest
- Fundraise alongside us, even if you can’t attend in person
Whether you’re walking with us, cheering from afar, or sharing the campaign with your community, your support truly matters.
Schuyler continues to make incredible progress, and this campaign helps ensure she has the long-term financial security and resources she needs to continue building a full, independent life.
From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for helping Schuyler continue her incredible journey, and for being part of the community that has lifted her up every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where are these funds going?
Schuyler's Special Needs Trust is managed by three trustees (Valerie Eisenson, Stephanie Granada, and Isabel Garcia) and two advisors (Kate Ford and Laura Bass). The funds are held in the Trust's bank account and investment account. Our primary goal is to invest the funds for the future, but some are spent each year to support Schuyler.
2. You did a fundraiser 5 years ago, why another one now?
Schuyler has made a lot of progress over the past 5 years. It has also become clearer what Schuyler’s long-term needs will be. The funds we raised five years ago have been integral to Schuyler’s continued progress, and we have made solid investments for her future. In order to ensure stability for Schuy in both the short and long term, we are hoping to raise more funds for Schuyler’s trust.
3. What are some examples of how the funds are managed/spent?
- The funds are invested in a diversified portfolio of low-fee ETFs
- Physical Therapy at NextStep Orlando
- Travel and lodging for physical therapy trips, camps (Ashmere Project), important events (Yale College Reunions)
4. I am not comfortable/able to contribute to this trust right now. Can I contribute to Schuyler in another way?
Yes! There are many other meaningful ways to contribute; for example:
- Sponsoring an experience for Schuyler, such as flights to Ashmere or Physical Therapy at NextStep. If you are interested in contributing to Schuyler’s PT appointments at NextStep, here is the information: Write a check to NextStep Fitness, Inc., 277 Douglas Avenue #1006, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 with Schuyler’s name in the memo line or donate here with Schuyler’s name in the comments section. Your full gift goes towards immediate impact this year!
- Hosting Schuyler when she visits your city
- Scheduling a visit to Tampa
5. What is a Special Needs Trust?
A special needs trust is a legal arrangement that holds and manages assets for a person with disabilities without jeopardizing their eligibility for public benefits like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income. The trust can be used to pay for supplemental expenses—such as therapies, education, or quality-of-life supports—that enhance the individual’s well-being beyond what public programs cover. All gifts to the trust are taxable and should be reported to your accountant.
For more information, please visit our website. To join us in NYC on May 31st, fill out this form.
