Help Sophia Get a Wheelchair-Accessible Van

My little sister Sophia is a joyful girl who has faced so many challenges in her young life. Born premature, weighing just over a pound, she spent her first year of life living in the NICU at Nationwide Children's Hospital.

Sophia's birth was an emergency delivery and my mom had to receive blood transfusions. Both their lives hung in the balance. However, they both pulled through.

During the early weeks and months of Sophia’s life, we didn’t know if she would ever come home. Before she was a year old she had several surgeries for intestinal issues. She suffered a stroke, and now relies on a liquid diet. She even had orthopedic surgery to help her future mobility. Despite all of this, Sophia is very interactive. She giggles, and fills our lives with her happy smiles and sounds. She cannot speak or walk, but her spirit is bright, and she brings joy to everyone around her.

Now 12 years old, transporting Sophia has become increasingly difficult. She uses a heavy wheelchair, and getting her in and out of a regular car requires lifting her, buckling her in, and packing up her wheelchair each time. With my parents getting older and Sophia growing, this process has become a major challenge.

Why We're Asking for Help

The financial strain of years of medical bills, rising costs, and the need for one parent to be home with Sophia has made it impossible to afford a handicap-accessible van, even with financing.

A van with a lift would allow Sophia to join us for errands, appointments, and family outings without the physical and emotional stress of difficult transfers. It would mean more freedom, safety, and inclusion for Sophia and much-needed relief for my parents.

We are so grateful for the support of family, friends, and anyone who understands the challenges of caring for a disabled child. Your help will make a real difference in Sophia’s life and our family’s ability to care for her.

Every donation, share, or kind word helps. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.