Riding in Style!

Trisomy 18, also known as Edwards syndrome, is a condition which is caused by a error in cell division, known as meiotic disjunction. When this happens, instead of the normal pair, an extra chromosome 18 results (a triple) in the developing baby and disrupts the normal pattern of development in significant ways that can be life-threatening, even before birth. A Trisomy 18 error occurs in about 1 out of every 2500 pregnancies in the United States and 1 in 6000 live births. The numbers of total births is much higher because it includes significant numbers of stillbirths that occur in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy.

Who: I am Danny and I was born with Trisomy 18 and other disabilities. Going to school is important and a place that makes me happpy. I learn a lot of things and get to socialize with my friends. In order to get to school my mom and dad have to lift me up into the van into my carseat. As I grow I keep getting heavier. At my home, I also have a sister with special needs, and a little brother. My sister also has to be lifted into the van for us to go from place to place as a family. My parents are very strong, but lifting us everyday is very difficult. 

What:  I need to raise $10,000 to have enough money to buy the conversion lift kit for my family van. Through other resources I already have 5,000 and need 10,000 more to be able to have the lift installed. This kit will make it so my parents will be able to lift our wheelchairs into the van, and we will be riding in style to school! 

Why:  Danny is a student in my special education classroom. His sister and himself have gone through this classroom, and hold a special place in our hearts. Working with this family has been a joy and they really bring joy to people they are around. As I work with the family,  you can see the struggle they are enduring with having to lift both children to transport them to school and other places around town. This has affected their mothers medical condition, and been an added stressor in their life. Please donate if you are able. This van conversion would be life changing for the whole family!