Help Charlie Drive!

Ahalya Lettenberger is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Anna Sampath Lettenberger.

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My brother Charlie was born with the disability, Arthrogryposis Amyoplasia, a musculoskeletal condition causing muscle weakness and joint restrictions. The disability affects his arms and legs, causing him to use a motorized wheelchair controlled by his head. Although his disability has limited his physical abilities, including preventing him from walking and lifting his arms, Charlie has not let his disability hold him back in life. He loves singing, performing in school plays, and he even plays power (wheelchair) soccer!

Like any 16-year-old, Charlie has always dreamed of being able to drive a car. Due to Arthrogryposis, throughout his life he has had to depend on others for basic needs including getting dressed, eating, and going to the bathroom. However, being able to drive would give him a newfound independence that would completely change his life.

Recently, Charlie completed a driving evaluation to see if it's possible for him to drive a car. Despite warnings that it may not be physically possible, Charlie held onto hope of driving and always stayed positive. It paid off. We were recently informed Charlie can drive a car!

Our family was overjoyed that Charlie would be able to drive. However, our joy was short-lived, as we learned that the costs of car modifications for Charlie would be $160,000. This includes a wheelchair accessible van, a joystick to control steering and acceleration, and numerous other modifications for Charlie to control the car.

It would truly mean the world to Charlie to have this independence and the feeling of freedom we all experience when we get behind the wheel. So, I am asking for your help. Any donations to fund Charlie's car and help him drive would be greatly appreciated. He is a smart, kind, and determined young man, and as his sister, I know how much this would mean to him. Additionally, if we are fortunate enough to receive enough funds to exceed the costs of the accessible van, the excess donations will go towards the creation of a non-profit to help others with physical disabilities who cannot afford equipment that insurance refuses to cover. Thank you so much!

- Ahalya