Hi there! A few years ago my dad was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that caused a loss of mobility. It started with unexplained falls, excessive fatigue and weakness. It led to months of missing work trying to "rest" and hoping to "get better." By the time they figured out what was wrong he lost his trucking business, ability to walk and most of his independence.

My dad; who spent his life raising 5 kids, working long hours, sometimes multiple jobs and fixing just about anything with a motor is now restricted to a power wheelchair. Insurance has helped my parents get a much needed power chair that helped decrease falls during transfers and providing physical therapy that's helped him regain some dexterity to brush his teeth, hold a cup and feed himself independently. My mom retired early to be home to care of him. I guess she meant it when they vowed "in sickness and in health" nearly 44 years ago ‍♀️

I know this isn't the "retirement" they planned for. I'm sure no one ever does. I'm also pretty sure they never planned much regarding retirement at all: they were far too busy making sure all 5 of us were taken care of and always had what we needed. But now, I'm asking for help to make sure they have what they need.

My parents have used medical transport for the last few months to get my dad to and from doctors appointments. While we're greatful the service is available, he has been late and missed multiple appointments. The wait time for pick ups, appointment, pick up again and drop offs often turn into a 6-10 hour day, without the freedom of an optional detour for a meal. In their 44 years together, they've been no strangers to hardships. They've truly learned to be grateful for the small things in life and not to ever take things for granted. I have no doubt I get my resilience from them.

I would love to raise money to help get my parents a used wheelchair accessible van so my mom can take him to appointments on her own. He would need one with a full conversion so he could be secured in his power chair. Turns out, those vans are insanely expensive.... For anyone that knows my parents, they would never ask for anything. So I'm asking for them. Please consider donating towards the purchase that would make my mom's life a hell of a lot more manageable. If you know her, you know she deserves it. ❤️