Hi, my name is Alice and I am a disabled, non-binary, queer artist and a full-time wheelchair user. I have a classical ehlers-danlos syndrome which is progressive and means I live with chronic pain and severely unstable joints. I currently have a carer and am a full-time wheelchair user and completely rely on this for my quality of life. 

Currently I use an electric wheelchair which is my main source of independence. However, this can restrict my access to things as it heavy, bulky and does not fit into all spaces. I also own a prescribed manual chair which I use intermittently for doing things like traveling on public transport, visiting less accessible venues and seeing loved ones. Due to my disability progressing, I am no longer able to push myself in this chair independently. Needing the extra help from others is something which affects my mental health as I like to be as self-reliant as possible.  

 This fundraiser is for a power add on for my manual chair which will allow me to navigate freely without help and injury to myself. The add on will cost £4000 and the extra £130 on the GoFundMe will cover the money taken by the site.  

 The model of the add on is a Smart Drive MX2+ and will effectively act similar to an electric bike. This means I will use some of my own strength which will then be supplemented by the smart drive, making this far more accessible for my needs. This will allow me to go up hills, over uneven terrain and preserve my energy when getting from A to B.  

 Having access to an add on like this is something that would dramatically increase my quality of life. It means I will be able to access my art studio where I’m completing a Masters in Textile Design. Currently, my studio in situated in a historical building which means I cannot access all the facilities and studios in my larger electric wheelchair. It also means I would be able to visit my girlfriend who lives in a different city and see friends and family who live in less accessible homes. This also gives me the ability to travel safely on my own without relying on somebody else.  

Thanks so much for looking at my fundraiser, any donation is greatly appreciated and if you are not in a position to donate, a share is just as important.