New Wheelchair Accessible Van for Melissa Klassen

Hey! My name is Melissa Klassen. I am in my 30s and I am physically disabled and use a power wheelchair for mobility. I am raising funds to purchase a new, safer wheelchair accessible van.

It is important to me for many reasons. I have used a power wheelchair for over 30 years, and have had many makeshift "accessible" vehicles over the years. My current van is by far the nicest and "most accessible" vehicle I've had to date. It is a 2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 which we affectionately call "Vanna White". She has more things that do not work, than things that do. She spends more and more time in the shop to keep her ready for any moment I suddenly need her to take us 300+ kilometers to Saskatoon, SK for medical appointments, or to visit family. It is time for Vanna to live out the rest of her days as a pet project for someone who can fix her up for camping. I need something safer, more modern and smaller.

I have been in contact with Motion in Saskatoon, and have been offered a new 2023 Toyota Sienna Hybrid XLE which has been converted by BraunAbility with their "XT" conversion. It has a power folding ramp, power doors, among other features and will be fitted with a Q'STRAINT QLK-150 Wheelchair Docking System located in the front passenger area. What this means, is for the first time ever, I can enter and exit my vehicle safely, securely and completely independently. With a ramp, there is less chance for failure compared to a hydraulic lift which I currently have in Vanna. The Braun XT van also has a power kneeling feature, which lessens the incline for loading and unloading.

The biggest excitement for me is the ability to ride next to my driver and be able to have a normal conversation, see the same sights and be an effective "navigator". I'm looking forward to the new van's modern features like working air conditioning, multi-zone climate control, GPS, power windows and locks, remote start, and a cup holder I can actually reach!

The funds raised will go towards the loan I have to take to purchase this essential upgrade. I'm currently not working due to my disabilities and am in the process of obtaining my Bachelors in Psychology through an online university. I rely on social assistance through the Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability program, and it only meets my care needs. If possible, I'd love to not have to worry about the long term cost of this vehicle and be able to start getting out more for pleasure and adventure, as well as to much needed and often postponed medical trips.