Hi friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,

My name is Chad Olson, and I’m reaching out with hope in my heart and a humble ask.

I’m trying to raise funds for something that would truly change my life — a wheelchair-accessible van. These vans are expensive, and while I plan to take out a loan, I need help raising enough for a down payment to get started. On a fixed income, this dream feels out of reach unless I lean on the community I love.

This isn’t easy for me to ask — I’ve always tried to do things on my own. I’ve loaded and unloaded my wheelchair into cars for years, often by myself. But lately, that’s become harder and harder. I rely more on Metro Mobility and the generosity of friends and family to get around. My dream is to reclaim some independence — to go to appointments, mass, sporting events, and just around town, without having to ask for a ride. A van would give me freedom again.

A bit about me: I was born with Larsen’s Syndrome, a rare disorder that affects all my major joints. Over the years, I’ve had many surgeries to help me move more freely. I was able to walk for much of my early life, but since my mid-20s, I’ve relied on a wheelchair.

In 1993, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. With treatment and faith, I was able to manage it well and live a full, productive life. I worked for nearly 20 years with Minneapolis Parks and Rec, coached adaptive athletics for students with disabilities, and held customer service and sales jobs. I’ve always loved people — connecting, helping, listening.

But 7 years ago, life shifted again. Years of medication took a toll on my body, and I was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease. I now go to dialysis several times a week — it’s what keeps me alive. I’m still holding out hope for a transplant. In the meantime, I’m trying to take better care of myself: eating healthier, losing weight, exercising more, and keeping faith alive.

Despite the challenges — a recent arm fracture, a serious bout of pneumonia — I still smile. I still show up. I still believe in joy. You’ll often find me cheering at Gopher hockey and basketball games, showing up at high school rinks across Minnesota, or worshiping at Saint Vincent’s Church in Osseo. I love this state, I love its people, and I try to live each day with gratitude.

Those who know me will tell you I’m gentle, kind, faithful, and full of heart. I don’t need much, but I do need this van — not just for rides, but for freedom. To be able to get back to doing the things I love without asking someone else to lift, drive, or push.

If you’re able to help in any way, I’m deeply grateful. And if you can’t donate, sharing this with someone who might be able to is just as meaningful.

From the bottom of my heart — thank you for reading, thank you for caring, and thank you for believing in people like me.

With love and hope,

Chad