Shahreen's College and Support Fund
Donation protected
First and foremost I’d like to thank every single person who has donated and supported me and my family throughout this ongoing journey; it hasn’t been an easy one but with strong faith and high hopes we believe anything and everything is possible.
I wanted to give an update on how things have been the past couple of years after the accident and share where the donations that have been made were spent; also sharing new goals made for success...
November 1st, 2014, the night that changed my life. I woke up in University of Maryland Medical Center- critical care unit. Now, four years after the automobile accident which caused my spinal cord injury leaving me quadriplegic, I’ve realized that trauma can do one of two things to people; it can shut them down or wake one up, both spiritually and emotionally. I, Shahreen Zannat, feel blessed to be able to experience the latter.
Despite many health complications, I have been able to graduate high school with a 3.9 GPA and a class rank of 5 amongst 232 students. As a result, I got accepted to the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
The donations made allowed me to take care of many medical and living expenses that are needed for everyday activities both at home and at school. A crucial purchase made was a used wheelchair accessible van that allowed me to travel to and from school and just get out of the house a little. Another important purchase was an electrical-stimulated rehabilitation bike that allows me to do therapy at home. I am not able to receive physical therapy throughout the year, so the bike helps during breaks from outpatient rehabilitation. This equipment helps prevent many medical complications such as blood clots and fractures; most importantly, it helps me sustain my physical strength. Last but certainly not least, with the donations given, I was able to invest towards a down payment on a handicap accessible home.
Four years later, I begin to embark on my next big chapter in life--college! Even with high hopes, I am overwhelmed by the costs associated with the accommodations I need. I’ve reached out to many organizations and resources in the search for funding that can minimize school costs, but the strict eligibility requirements have made it difficult. Definitely not discouraged but ambitious on finding new ways to pursue my dream of being a college graduate, I come to you all for positive support and what would be much appreciated help.
Although my family and I have made great strides, the journey continues, as there are still several medical and everyday living expenses for which we would greatly appreciate your generosity.
Items on the next target goals for success include:
Nursing care for school- this would ensure someone would be by my side to assist me with various needs (i.e., taking notes, feeding, opening doors/navigating around campus, administering medications and catheterizing).
Transportation for school- the ‘05 wheelchair accessible van initially purchased was used and has several mechanical issues which have been costing even more money to fix; also, preventing me from attending important doctor appointments and classes.
Medical equipment for home physical therapy- as time is going by it is imperative I keep up with physical activity to keep the integrity of my bones and muscles. Equipment at home would allow me to be active while I’m not receiving medical therapy for months at a time.
It’s not easy to call out for help, but it’s also wise to know when it is needed to do so. I know the power of prayer and believe every little step counts. Much gratitude in advance for any contributions you are able to make. I would appreciate it if you could also help me spread my words and story, as I will continue to strive for the best and make you all proud!
I wanted to give an update on how things have been the past couple of years after the accident and share where the donations that have been made were spent; also sharing new goals made for success...
November 1st, 2014, the night that changed my life. I woke up in University of Maryland Medical Center- critical care unit. Now, four years after the automobile accident which caused my spinal cord injury leaving me quadriplegic, I’ve realized that trauma can do one of two things to people; it can shut them down or wake one up, both spiritually and emotionally. I, Shahreen Zannat, feel blessed to be able to experience the latter.
Despite many health complications, I have been able to graduate high school with a 3.9 GPA and a class rank of 5 amongst 232 students. As a result, I got accepted to the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
The donations made allowed me to take care of many medical and living expenses that are needed for everyday activities both at home and at school. A crucial purchase made was a used wheelchair accessible van that allowed me to travel to and from school and just get out of the house a little. Another important purchase was an electrical-stimulated rehabilitation bike that allows me to do therapy at home. I am not able to receive physical therapy throughout the year, so the bike helps during breaks from outpatient rehabilitation. This equipment helps prevent many medical complications such as blood clots and fractures; most importantly, it helps me sustain my physical strength. Last but certainly not least, with the donations given, I was able to invest towards a down payment on a handicap accessible home.
Four years later, I begin to embark on my next big chapter in life--college! Even with high hopes, I am overwhelmed by the costs associated with the accommodations I need. I’ve reached out to many organizations and resources in the search for funding that can minimize school costs, but the strict eligibility requirements have made it difficult. Definitely not discouraged but ambitious on finding new ways to pursue my dream of being a college graduate, I come to you all for positive support and what would be much appreciated help.
Although my family and I have made great strides, the journey continues, as there are still several medical and everyday living expenses for which we would greatly appreciate your generosity.
Items on the next target goals for success include:
Nursing care for school- this would ensure someone would be by my side to assist me with various needs (i.e., taking notes, feeding, opening doors/navigating around campus, administering medications and catheterizing).
Transportation for school- the ‘05 wheelchair accessible van initially purchased was used and has several mechanical issues which have been costing even more money to fix; also, preventing me from attending important doctor appointments and classes.
Medical equipment for home physical therapy- as time is going by it is imperative I keep up with physical activity to keep the integrity of my bones and muscles. Equipment at home would allow me to be active while I’m not receiving medical therapy for months at a time.
It’s not easy to call out for help, but it’s also wise to know when it is needed to do so. I know the power of prayer and believe every little step counts. Much gratitude in advance for any contributions you are able to make. I would appreciate it if you could also help me spread my words and story, as I will continue to strive for the best and make you all proud!
Organizer
Shahreen Zannat
Organizer
Catonsville, MD