I am creating this fundraiser for my husband, Zach—my high school sweetheart—and for our family. We are asking for help purchasing an accessible van that will allow Zach to travel more safely and comfortably and, in many ways, help our family regain a sense of normalcy.

Zach has been living with primary progressive multiple sclerosis since September of 2019. In the beginning, the symptoms were manageable. Dizziness, fatigue, and drop foot were frustrating and annoying, but doable. But as the years passed, MS began taking more and more from him—and from our family—than we ever imagined. In the span of just three years, Zach went from needing a cane, to a walker, to a seated walker, and eventually to a wheelchair. His neurologist described his physical decline as incredibly fast.

As Zach’s physical limitations have increased, simple everyday things have become incredibly difficult. Running errands, watching our son at his Christmas program, or even attending church just down the road can require extensive planning, transportation arrangements, and extra hands to help—not only to get Zach where he needs to go, but to make sure he is safe and comfortable once we get there. We also have countless medical appointments throughout the year, many of which have had to be rescheduled because of transportation difficulties.

Our little family of three can no longer do many things independently together, and that is what we miss the most. Things that most people might find mundane—picking up groceries, getting gas, going somewhere on a whim—are things Zach wishes he could still do. We don't want to simply get from one place to another. We want to give Zach some semblance of a life outside the walls of our home.

We want him to be able to get out of the house and go somewhere—anywhere—comfortably and safely, without our entire family having to depend on someone else to make it possible. An accessible van would make a meaningful difference in our everyday lives. It would make getting Zach in and out of the vehicle safer, easier, and far less physically demanding. It would allow our family to do simple but important things together with less stress, less strain, and more independence.

More than transportation, this van would give us freedom. It would give us the ability to say yes to an outing, attend church, watch our son’s activities, run an errand, go to an appointment, or simply get out of the house together without everything becoming an overwhelming logistical challenge. It would help us reclaim some of the moments we have lost.

All I know is that we serve a God who cares about both the big things and the small things. He sees our struggles, He knows our needs, and we continue to believe that He provides a way even when there seems to be no way. If you are able to support our fundraiser, please know that we are incredibly grateful. Whether you give, share our story, pray for our family, or simply take the time to read about Zach, you are helping us more than we can express. Thank you for your kindness, your encouragement, and for helping our family find a little more freedom, independence, and normalcy in a life that has changed so much.