Molly's Van Fund
Donation protected
I was diagnosed with Friedreich's Ataxia (FA) when I was ten-years-old. My family and I were left stunned, as we knew our lives were about to be flipped upside down. FA is a degenerative, life's shortening, muscle-wasting, neuromuscular disorder that would eventually leave me wheelchair-bound. As a typical rough and tumble ten-year-old, we couldn't believe what was destined in the future.
FA can cause, but is not limited to:
loss of coordination (ataxia) in the arms and legs
fatigue - energy deprivation and muscle loss
vision impairment, hearing loss, and slurred speech
aggressive scoliosis (curvature of the spine)
gradual diminishing of the ability to walk
diabetes mellitus (insulin - dependent, in most cases)
a serious heart condition (enlarged heart - hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).
Currently, there is no cure for FA.
Life went on, and as certain tasks became more challenging, I never let FA hold me back. I always tried my best and pushed myself so I wouldn't miss out on the amazing experiences life had to offer.
I believe my situation has presented many unique opportunities that have positively impacted my life. For example, I went to Muscular Dystrophy Camp for seven years, and had the time of my life. Some of the camp experiences have made me a stronger person. Another incredible opportunity was volunteering with Miss Sparkles, a non-competitive disability pageant. I have done this for the previous four years, and found that it is a wonderful opportunity to outreach and volunteer in the community.
Now, at the age of 21, I am becoming more and more independent. However, being independent can be challenging during day to day tasks, like how to get to and from doctor appointments, school, and everyday errands. While I have relied on public transportation, family, and friends, it isn't always the safest or most efficient option regarding FA.
While driving was never a guarantee with my condition, I went through a specialized Driver's Ed. course, and with much practice, I got my license. I was over the moon! Recently, I got the final approval for driving with hand controls! I thought nothing could hold me back from this independence; that is until I found out the price of the van. As a full-time college student and working part time, the expense of a car will be extremely challenging to cover.
I am now reaching out to my community and asking for donations towards a vehicle in order to help me safely maintain the independence I have worked diligently to achieve.
With much gratitude and love,
Molly
FA can cause, but is not limited to:
loss of coordination (ataxia) in the arms and legs
fatigue - energy deprivation and muscle loss
vision impairment, hearing loss, and slurred speech
aggressive scoliosis (curvature of the spine)
gradual diminishing of the ability to walk
diabetes mellitus (insulin - dependent, in most cases)
a serious heart condition (enlarged heart - hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).
Currently, there is no cure for FA.
Life went on, and as certain tasks became more challenging, I never let FA hold me back. I always tried my best and pushed myself so I wouldn't miss out on the amazing experiences life had to offer.
I believe my situation has presented many unique opportunities that have positively impacted my life. For example, I went to Muscular Dystrophy Camp for seven years, and had the time of my life. Some of the camp experiences have made me a stronger person. Another incredible opportunity was volunteering with Miss Sparkles, a non-competitive disability pageant. I have done this for the previous four years, and found that it is a wonderful opportunity to outreach and volunteer in the community.
Now, at the age of 21, I am becoming more and more independent. However, being independent can be challenging during day to day tasks, like how to get to and from doctor appointments, school, and everyday errands. While I have relied on public transportation, family, and friends, it isn't always the safest or most efficient option regarding FA.
While driving was never a guarantee with my condition, I went through a specialized Driver's Ed. course, and with much practice, I got my license. I was over the moon! Recently, I got the final approval for driving with hand controls! I thought nothing could hold me back from this independence; that is until I found out the price of the van. As a full-time college student and working part time, the expense of a car will be extremely challenging to cover.
I am now reaching out to my community and asking for donations towards a vehicle in order to help me safely maintain the independence I have worked diligently to achieve.
With much gratitude and love,
Molly
Organizer
Molly S
Organizer
Tempe, AZ