My dear friends,

Many of you know my daughter Valerie. She will be forty this year. She was born with spina bifida, she has been in a wheelchair her entire life, and she has the mind of a child. Yet even with all her challenges, Valerie has always carried a beautiful, gentle joy that touches every person who meets her. She depends completely on me for her care, and I count it an honor before God to care for her.

For many years we relied on a handicapped vehicle that was already old when we received it. It was a 2005 model, twenty one years old, but it allowed Valerie to travel in her power chair. It gave her the ability to reach her doctor appointments, receive therapy, and enjoy the world outside our home. We stretched that vehicle for as long as possible.

Yesterday we received news that has left us with a serious problem. After a full inspection, we were told that the van is no longer safe to drive. The mechanic said it cannot be repaired in a way that would make it safe. As of now, we have no working vehicle for Valerie.

Without a handicapped van, Valerie cannot get to her medical care, her therapy, or even the simple blessing of leaving the house. Without transportation, her world becomes even smaller, and her care becomes much harder to manage.

To replace our vehicle, we need to raise about twenty five thousand dollars. This will allow us to purchase a reliable used handicapped van so Valerie can continue receiving the care she needs and so she can still experience life outside these four walls.

I am not comfortable asking for help, but I must do what is best for Valerie. If you are able to help in any way, we would be deeply grateful. And if you cannot give, your prayers and love are just as meaningful to us.

Thank you for caring about Valerie, and thank you for taking the time to read this.

From my heart,

Peter