Mobility For Justice

Hi! I'm Jay Justice . I'm a massive nerd, costumer, cosplayer, writer, gamer, actress and a pretty good cook. I am also permanently disabled and have been for nearly fifteen years. Many people are surprised to hear this, because I don't fit their idea of what a disabled person is. I have an 'invisible disability'. My constant pain and increasing physical damage is not something you can see.

I currently use a cane and manual wheelchair to get around. I'm a very active person. I went from going to over 20 comic conventions a year to working for Marvel Universe Live, which involves me being on a 2 year tour visiting a new city each week. I love to travel and learn something new every day. I've always believed that being disabled doesn't mean that you can't live your dream--it just means that you have to find another way.

The pain and difficulty moving have been getting worse for me lately. My disability affects my entire body and so there are days when I can't use both legs and also have flare ups in my hands, back and shoulders, so I can't use my canes or wheelchair. I struggle through the pain and still do my job, but I know that I need to find another way to reach my goals. 

What I need is a mobility scooter that doesn't require the use of my upper body to propel it. Something small, lightweight and compact that I can easily take with me on the tour. Amazingly, such a thing exists--the TravelScoot . It folds down to fit into a standard duffle bag and weighs only 30lbs. It runs on rechargeable batteries and can go for nearly 20 miles on ONE charge (depending on weight of rider and terrain).

I've read many, many testimonials and this is definitely the mobility aid that I need to keep going. There are so many things I wish to create and goals to reach. I'm working as hard as I can and saving every penny, but continuing to walk and stand, or use my manual wheelchair despite the pain and damage it causes to my hands, arms and back, is making it harder for me to endure. The sooner I'm able to get around without hurting myself, the better. That's why after much thought I decided to share my story and ask for help.

If I'm able to get my TravelScoot, I will be donating my wheelchair to Wheels Of Mercy , a wonderful charity that gives wheelchairs to people in need.  They also provide disability awareness training and advocacy for people with disabilities. 

I appreciate every single person who has helped and  encouraged me along the way. It's very hard to ask others for help, but this isn't something frivolous or unnecessary. It's a mobility aid to keep me able to work and reach my goals. I cannot let my physical limitations define my life. Thank you.