Hi, my name is Liana, and I’m humbly asking for help for my husband, Thomas, and myself. In July 2024, we traded in my previous car because of a failing rear end and purchased a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee so we could have reliable transportation. We gave our other vehicle to our son because Thomas is no longer able to drive due to medical issues, so I have become the sole driver for our household.
Thomas has multiple out-of-town doctor appointments that require us to travel 1–2 hours from home, often 2–3 times per month. Reliable transportation isn’t a luxury for us — it’s a necessity. Until recently, I worked as a school bus driver, a job I truly loved. Unfortunately, my rheumatoid arthritis severely damaged my knees. After spending a year in a wheelchair, I finally found a surgeon an hour away who performed my first knee replacement on December 4, 2025. I am now preparing for my second knee replacement on March 11, 2026. These life-changing surgeries require ongoing physical therapy 30 minutes from home, 2–3 times each week.
We have done our best to keep our vehicle safe and reliable. I recently purchased new tires and had axles, brakes, and other preventative maintenance done, which depleted our savings. Now, just when we need it most, our Jeep has developed a serious engine issue. A trusted friend and reputable mechanic diagnosed a misfire caused by bad valves and other significant internal engine problems. He refuses to “just patch it up,” knowing that would only leave us stranded later. The engine requires new valves, cam, rockers, and several other internal components. Without this repair, we risk missing critical medical appointments and therapy that are essential to both my recovery and Thomas’s health.
If you are able to give — no matter how small — we would be deeply grateful. If you’re not in a position to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for any support you can offer. Even if it takes years, I would gladly pay forward the kindness shown to us during this difficult time. With gratitude, Liana & Thomas
Thomas has multiple out-of-town doctor appointments that require us to travel 1–2 hours from home, often 2–3 times per month. Reliable transportation isn’t a luxury for us — it’s a necessity. Until recently, I worked as a school bus driver, a job I truly loved. Unfortunately, my rheumatoid arthritis severely damaged my knees. After spending a year in a wheelchair, I finally found a surgeon an hour away who performed my first knee replacement on December 4, 2025. I am now preparing for my second knee replacement on March 11, 2026. These life-changing surgeries require ongoing physical therapy 30 minutes from home, 2–3 times each week.
We have done our best to keep our vehicle safe and reliable. I recently purchased new tires and had axles, brakes, and other preventative maintenance done, which depleted our savings. Now, just when we need it most, our Jeep has developed a serious engine issue. A trusted friend and reputable mechanic diagnosed a misfire caused by bad valves and other significant internal engine problems. He refuses to “just patch it up,” knowing that would only leave us stranded later. The engine requires new valves, cam, rockers, and several other internal components. Without this repair, we risk missing critical medical appointments and therapy that are essential to both my recovery and Thomas’s health.
If you are able to give — no matter how small — we would be deeply grateful. If you’re not in a position to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for any support you can offer. Even if it takes years, I would gladly pay forward the kindness shown to us during this difficult time. With gratitude, Liana & Thomas