Hi! My name is Chrysanthemum (known as @chrysmuu online) and I am fundraising so that I can purchase a wheelchair van!

I am a full time power wheelchair user due to multiple neurological disorders. Because of this, going out and about is a bit difficult! Currently, I am put into the front passenger seat while relying on others to dangerously load my wheelchair into a vehicle using steep folding ramps. As you can imagine, having someone else handle what is basically your legs (and only form of independent ambulation) is VERY scary and VERY risky.

I have a CRT wheelchair- Complex Rehab Technology- which is fully custom built to my body and my needs. It is VERY IMPORTANT AND VITAL TO MY LIFE THAT THIS CHAIR STAYS SAFE AND IN ONE PIECE! If my chair were to break, I would be entirely screwed and would have my independence ripped away from me.

Having a wheelchair van would allow me MUCH greater independence. Not only will I be able to get myself and my wheelchair in and out of a vehicle independently, but I will be able to STAY IN MY CHAIR THE WHOLE RIDE!!! :D My power wheelchair has very vital functions on it (such as tilt and elevating leg rests) that I need to utilize throughout my day. Having this type of van would mean that I am able to stay in my chair the whole ride and I will be able to access these functions of my chair. MY CHAIR WOULD BE SAFER!

Yesterday, me and one of my PSS workers had the wonderful opportunity to trial one of these vans and take it for a drive. I cried when I realized after I had gotten into the van that I actually fit and got in all by myself ❤️ Compared to how my power chair has been being handled and all of the stress I've gone through because of it, this was HEAVEN.

As most should know, these vans are VERY expensive. Crip Tax, as we like to call it, is a very real thing.

While I am not able to drive due to my neurological disabilities, I have access to full time care, and would be using those people to drive me. This would be my van, it will just have a few different drivers/ "chauffeurs"

I have lived off of SSDI (Adult Disabled Child) since 2018. Because of this, my income after bills and meds is nottttt alot. It is not feasible for me to be able to afford this van on my own without community assistance.

So, I am putting out good vibes into the universe in asking for assistance from my community and others with this endeavor If you cannot donate to this cause, don't worry! All that I ask for is that you share this fundraiser around ❤️

Thank you, and much love ❤️