Addie is a close friend I met while selling my old shed online. We quickly discovered we had a lot in common and have supported each other ever since. For the past three years, Addie’s mobility has been rapidly declining. She can barely spend ten minutes on her feet before experiencing excruciating pain, and years of physical therapy haven’t helped. While she uses a walker, it only provides limited support, making it difficult for her to get out and do the things she loves or needs to do. Everyday activities like taking her son to the zoo or walking through a store have become nearly impossible without mobility carts, and her doctors now recommend a wheelchair for times when walking is necessary.

Addie is a hands-on person who used to weld and build things regularly. She loves dogs and recently lost a beloved pet, which has been tough on her and her family. Addie has a son and a daughter, and her wife works hard to keep the family afloat while caring for the kids. Unfortunately, Medicaid will only cover a basic hospital-style wheelchair, which isn’t practical for Addie’s needs. Most manual chairs that fit her properly are far beyond her reach financially, even after finding a local company that can build one for less.

A light weight wheelchair would allow Addie to regain independence, participate in family activities, and get back to doing the things she loves. Any support will make a real difference in her life and help her family during this challenging time.