Help Amanda/Misa Get A Van

My name is Amanda, although, many of you may also know me by the cosplay alias / stage name Misa on Wheels. I was diagnosed with Charcot-Marie Tooth disease at the age of two and had to start using a wheelchair full-time for mobility by the time I reached ten. My condition affects the nerves in my lower arms and lower legs, making standing no longer possible and severely impacts motor function my hands.



I have always been a go-getter and live my life to the fullest. I am a college graduate with my Bachelors in psychology. I work full-time in an unrelated field and am hoping to soon be able to get back to school pursue my Masters. Outside of my day job, I also cosplay and attend various conventions to promote body positivity and run my Facebook page, Misa on Wheels. This has been a huge part of my life and also involves a significant amount of travel.



I have never been one to let my disability get in the way of my goals and dreams. Although I have finally reached an obstacle that is requiring me to ask you for help: being able to drive on my own.


Before the agency I am working with can fund the installation of the modifications to make it possible for me to drive, I must first purchase my own vehicle. This sounds easy enough until one considers the following factors. I use a power wheelchair and need a vehicle that can transport and accommodate this device, like a larger SUV or minivan. Such vehicles are significantly more expensive than a standard sedan or similar automobile. Secondly, since the modifications alone are tens of thousands of dollars, the agency will not make any investment into an older vehicle, so I will need to purchase a new one.


I also cannot pursue my license until I have a vehicle that is customized to completely meet my needs to be able to get my practice hours and test in. So, it’s quite backwards from the normal process of obtaining one’s license and then getting a car. I have spent the last couple of years looking into grants, researching, and saving what I can but have had little success.



I am asking for your support in funding this endeavor to help me purchase a vehicle. Being able to drive will give me the last piece of independence I am missing and allow me to pursue my dreams without restrictions.


Even if you cannot support this goal monetarily, I appreciate you taking the time to read my story and helping to spread the word.


Thank you from the bottom of my heart,


Amanda