Hi, I’m Samantha — I’m 2 ft 6 in tall and have a type of dwarfism called Diastrophic Dysplasia. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for opening your heart to understand a little about my life.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve done everything I can to live life to the fullest and maintain my independence. I live on my own, and that independence means the world to me. My electric wheelchair isn’t just something I use — it’s truly part of who I am. It’s my legs, my freedom, my safety, and my connection to the world.

Sadly, my current electric wheelchair is reaching the end of its life. It’s needed new motors, gears, drive belts, and electrical components. It’s been my faithful companion for many years — helping me cook, walk my dog, visit friends, and get to the shops — but it’s now breaking down constantly. Many of its parts are discontinued, and we’ve had to create custom pieces just to keep it running.

Recently, the motor failed completely and left me stranded on the side of the road — alone, frightened, and unable to move. In that moment, I realised just how vulnerable I am without a reliable wheelchair. When you live alone, every bit of independence matters, and right now, I’m losing that piece by piece.

Everyday tasks that most people take for granted — filling a kettle, reaching a cupboard, buying groceries, sitting at a table, or stepping outside for some fresh air — can be incredibly difficult, exhausting, or even dangerous without the right mobility support.

I’m now urgently trying to raise funds to rebuild and upgrade my electric wheelchair — one that’s uniquely designed for my specific needs. Because of my small stature, I need a chair that can raise and lower to different heights, allowing me to reach door handles, access shelves, sit comfortably at tables, and safely transfer on and off the chair from the floor.

But this isn’t just about comfort — it’s about safety, dignity, and independence. The right wheelchair protects me from being accidentally knocked over in crowds or hit by swinging handbags. It allows me to open doors, press lift buttons, pay at checkouts, and move confidently without being overlooked. It gives me visibility and security in busy places, and the freedom to navigate both indoor and outdoor spaces safely.

An upgraded chair would also help me keep pace with others — for every single step an average-height person takes, I take four — and enable me to carry my shopping and essentials without strain or risk.

This wheelchair isn’t just a piece of equipment. It’s the key to living safely, confidently, and independently every single day.

Over the years, I’ve explored every possible grant and funding option, but unfortunately none can cover the kind of specialised equipment I need. Most mobility providers can only offer standard chairs, which simply don’t fit or function for someone my size or physical requirements. A recent quote for a new wheelchair came to over £18,000 — and even that didn’t meet all my needs.

That’s why I’m reaching out for help — to people like you who understand compassion, community, and the importance of independence.

Your support — whether it’s a donation, a share, or even a few kind words — will make a real, life-changing difference. It will help me maintain my freedom, safety, and confidence to continue living the life I’ve worked so hard to build.

A rebuild of my wheelchair means:

• Freedom — to go out, visit loved ones, and move without fear of breaking down.

• Independence — to live on my own safely and confidently.

• Safety — to navigate the world securely, indoors and outdoors.

• Dignity — to live life on my terms and stay active in my community.

I’m not just asking for an upgraded wheelchair — I’m asking for the chance to keep living my life fully, safely, and independently.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading my story, for sharing it, and for helping me move forward — one wheel at a time.

With love and gratitude,

Samantha x