Hi, my name is Theresa Kelly, and I’m reaching out with a humble request for help. I live in a small travel trailer outside of Summerville, South Carolina, and I rely on my car for everything—independence, essential activities, and getting to my medical appointments. Unfortunately, my 24-year-old Mitsubishi Eclipse 2D 4-cylinder engine has seized, and it needs a new engine. At this time, I simply cannot afford the repair or the purchase of a replacement vehicle. My transportation situation has become more and more urgent, and I’m struggling to find a way forward.

Here’s a little more about my situation:

I live with significant health issues that make daily life a challenge. I have mobility limitations due to a major brain-bleed stroke that has caused severe spasticity and pain in my left leg, which makes walking difficult and limits how far I can drive or ride—usually no more than 10-20 minutes each way, and a maximum of 2 hours out of the house at a time (1-2 per week max). I also struggle with severe fibromyalgia, neurological periodic paralysis, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, both of which cause chronic pain and debilitating weakness. I am also believed to be on the autism spectrum, but finding someone who can diagnose an adult female who takes my insurance has been very challenging.

Because of this, I am largely housebound, only leaving for shopping, medical appointments, and the occasional lunch with friends. My disabilities make it difficult to find transportation. I’m not located near a bus line, and I can’t use medical transportation due to severe vertigo and motion sickness in larger vans or buses when I need to use my power wheelchair. I’m also extremely sensitive to strong scents, such as perfumes or colognes, which can trigger severe headaches and difficulty breathing, always leading to full-body neurological paralysis and an ER visit. I need recirculated air at all times, as I can quickly decline from exposure to car fumes.

I rely on a rollator walker, which I can lift into the trunk of a car. I also need to remove the passenger side seat to fit my folded power wheelchair inside. I’ve never been able to drive larger vehicles, as my previous car—a small sedan—was already challenging enough and full of dents by the end. I need a very small, short vehicle with a large trunk or hatchback, which makes finding an affordable vehicle even more difficult.

My income consists of SSDI and VA Survivors' Benefits ($2k per month) as a “Helpless Adult Child” of a deceased Vietnam veteran. I'm and Agent Orange baby, that's why I'm so sick. My disability was dated back to my birth in 2001. While my journey hasn’t been easy, I’ve still managed to achieve amazing things and help so many people along the way. I also make a modest income of about $200 per month from web design work, primarily helping non-profit organizations, but after covering my bills, rent, food, and medical expenses, I often find myself short at the end of the month. Managing a medical diet is especially expensive, and every dollar counts.

I’m hoping to raise enough funds to purchase a reliable vehicle—a car that will last me for years to come, preferably from 2015 or newer. Having dependable transportation would make a world of difference in my life, allowing me to maintain my independence and quality of life despite my health challenges. I’m unable to afford assisted living, so maintaining my independence is critical for my well-being. Unfortunately, after my stroke, my credit has suffered significantly, and I do not qualify for financing. I will need to purchase a car outright.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story. Any assistance, whether through a donation, sharing my fundraiser, or even just offering words of encouragement, would mean the world to me. Your support could make a life-changing difference. I'm asking for any donation amount. A modest $20 for those who want to help but are struggling themselves. It all adds up in the end.

With heartfelt gratitude,

~Theresa Kelly - Hemorrhagic Stroke Survivor

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:

Invoice From Mechanic Shop Showing Seized Engine