Help Me Purchase a Handicap Ramp for My Dad

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out with love and urgency to ask for your help in building a handicap-accessible ramp for my dad, John Hulecki.

My dad is one of my best friends. We’ve always shared a special bond and used to go on fun adventures together—memories I deeply cherish. He’s 76 now, and unfortunately, mobility has been a challenge for most of my life. He has one of the worst documented cases of gouty arthritis in the country. When I was just 10 (I’m 37 now), he was a case study at UMass, where an auditorium full of doctors viewed images of his arms and legs on a large screen to learn about the disease.

He’s been unable to work and on disability since 1996, so saving for a ramp like this has always seemed impossible. In 2022, he suffered a stroke. His time in the hospital led to significant atrophy and weakness, and since then, stairs have been completely out of the question. A wheelchair has become his only means of getting around, other than a few small steps.

When my dad was still physically able, he spent his time giving back to others—teaching and coaching football and track at Leominster High School, and basketball and football at St. Bernard’s High. Around town, many people we would run into fondly refer to him as "Coach!". He was a great athlete in his day and was even Captain of the UMass Football team. During his time at UMass Amherst, he was also a proud member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. I’m hoping that those who knew him—whether as a teammate, fraternity brother, coach, colleague, or friend-might see a familar face in need and consider donating or sharing. Every share and/or contribution- no matter the size- brings us closer helping my Dad reconnect with the world he so loves.

Right now, in order for him to leave the house, I need to be there along with another person to physically carry his wheelchair down the stairs. It’s dangerous, exhausting, and heartbreaking. Without a ramp, his independence—and our time together—suffers.

I’ve spent years trying to get help from various programs: MassHealth, Habitat for Humanity, North Central Aging Services, and dozens of others throughout Massachusetts. Sadly, none of them have come through.

I’m now trying to purchase a metal handicap ramp so he can safely and independently get in and out of the house. A new one was quoted at over $13,000, which is far beyond our means. Thankfully, I found a dealer that buys and sells used ramps, and they’ve quoted me $4,450. I’ve set the goal at $5,000 to help cover permit fees, installation, and any unexpected costs.

If I could just get 1,000 people to donate $5, my dad could have his life back—his independence, his ability to enjoy time outside, visit friends and family, and feel connected to the world again. He's and incredibly social, loving person, and being stuck inside-dependent on others for every outing- has taken a real toll.

If you’ve ever wished for more time with someone you love, please consider helping me so I don’t miss out on time with mine.

Any amount helps—truly. And if you can’t donate, sharing this campaign would mean the world to us.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your compassion and support.

With gratitude,

Cassandra Hulecki

#Independence4Coach #MobilityMatters

Please note- Any funds raised above our goal will be used to help modify the inside of our home so my Dad can access our kitchen safely.