Hello everyone :) I’m Avery Johnson, and I'm from sunny California! In 2006, I was born with a rare neuromuscular condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), and I have Type 2. Because of this, I’ve used a power wheelchair all my life.

Like any 19-year-old girl, I long to feel the wind in my hair, driving down the road. Friends in the backseat, music on the radio—freedom.

But, of course, due to my circumstances, the journey of earning my driver’s license and gaining road independence will be a little different for me. In February 2025, I passed my permit test at the DMV (on my first try, too! ) — and in April 2025, I passed a comprehensive driving exam for people with disabilities, and I was given the clearance to drive independently, with the right modifications and equipment made to my vehicle. The caveat, however, is that I must have my own vehicle to even start my behind-the-wheel training with a driving instructor. I’ve done everything that I can up to this point without my own vehicle, and now I’ve reached a crossroad. The only thing holding me back from getting my driver’s license is this!

My goal of $150,000 is to cover the cost of purchasing a vehicle, as well as the adaptive equipment that I need to drive it independently. See the images for my final recommendations by Handicap Driver’s Training and a list of adaptive equipment I will need, as well as the vehicle I will be purchasing and modifying.

Anything helps, including shares. :) I am deeply grateful from the bottom of my heart that you took the time to read this.

All I need now are the funds to make this wish come true. Help me turn my dreams of a quick, independent trip to the grocery store, a movie date with my friends, and a girls' day out with my little cousins into reality.

Thank you so much! Have a great day! ‍