Hi my name is Madison. I am 19 years old . When I was 8 my world was turned upside down, and I became permanently paralyzed from the waist down due to transverse myelitis, a rare condition. Most people fully recover — but I didn’t. Since then, every day has been a journey of strength, patience, and faith.

Because of my condition, I have a neurogenic bowel and bladder, which means I have to use a catheter and have a colostomy. These are things no child ever expects to face, but I’ve learned to adapt and live life with as much positivity and independence as I can.

Even with all the challenges, I’ve never let my disability stop me from dreaming. I’m currently in school to become a teacher — something I’ve always been passionate about — and I work two jobs to help make ends meet. I love spending time with my family, playing games like Roblox and Nintendo Switch with my sister, reading, listening to music, and watching TV.

Lately, my arms have gotten weaker, and I now need an electric wheelchair to get around safely. But my current vehicle can’t transport a power chair. That means without a wheelchair-accessible van, I’ll lose the ability to go to work, school, and even simple things like visiting family or running errands on my own.

Having this van would give me my freedom back. It would let me continue working toward my dreams, stay active in my community, and live life on my own terms — not limited by my wheelchair or my circumstances.

Any help you can give, big or small, would mean the world to me. Even $1 brings me closer to independence, freedom, and hope. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading my story and supporting me on this journey.

Madison