When our daughter Erin and her husband Ryan adopted twin girls, Frannie and Finley, we knew life would be full of love, surprises, and new challenges along the way. But we couldn’t imagine the obstacles that were in store. By the time the girls were about a year old, it was clear they both had developmental delays.

Frannie’s journey has been especially tough. She was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, which makes it hard for her to move, talk, and eat the way other kids do. The twins were fortunate to be accepted at The Meyer Center. Finley graduated after a year, while Frannie continues to attend this special school where her days are filled with many vital therapy sessions.

On top of her daily challenges associated with Cerebral Palsy, Frannie also has a rare genetic disorder called Rett Syndrome. She suffers from sudden “drop” seizures, where she can lose consciousness without warning. For her safety, she spends most of her time in her wheelchair. Her inability to chew and swallow properly led to the need for surgery for a permanent feeding tube so she can get the nutrition she needs. Many of her feedings take place in her wheelchair.

Why We’re Doing This

Frannie just turned 5, and she’s growing fast. Getting her in and out of a regular car has become harder and less safe. Erin and Ryan made a big decision this year — they sold both of their cars and bought a Sprinter van so they can turn it into a wheelchair-accessible vehicle for Frannie.

The van still needs to be converted with a lift and other changes so she can ride safely and comfortably. The cost estimate from Mobility Works for the conversion is a little over $19,000.

How We Can Help!

If you know Erin and Ryan, you know they would never ask for help like this. They handle so much every single day that most of us simply cannot help with, but this is one way we can offer our support and make life a tiny bit easier for Frannie and her family.

We would love for you to help us cover the cost of getting the van converted. It would mean Frannie could get to school, therapy, doctor visits and family outings without the daily struggle of lifting and maneuvering her wheelchair in and out of a regular vehicle.

If we raise more than what’s needed for the van, the extra funds will go towards making their home safer for Frannie — starting with a wheelchair-accessible shower.

Frannie has the biggest smile, sweetest snuggles and most joyful disposition for a child who faces daily challenges that would make most of us simply want to give up. She truly lives up to her middle name, Joy!

Thank you for loving our girl and giving her an opportunity to put her most favorite word to frequent use - “Go!”