Hello, compassionate friends and neighbors,

I’m David Laughman, a 50-year-old single father, living high in the mountains of Upstate New York. Surrounded by wilderness and winding country roads, my home is breathtaking—but utterly isolated. There are no grocery stores within walking distance, no bus stops, no taxis... And without a working car, my little family is cut off from the world.

My Lifeline on Four Wheels Needs Saving

A few months ago, my generous cousin in Pennsylvania gave me his Volkswagen Tiguan. He saw how hard life was getting for me, and in one simple act of kindness, he rekindled my hope for independence. That car was—and still can be—my bridge to groceries, medical appointments, school drop-offs, and the occasional breath of fresh air beyond these mountains.

But heartbreakingly, the engine has failed beyond repair. Right now, that Tiguan sits in my driveway like a beautifully dressed statue—silent, motionless, a tease of what could be. I can almost feel the roar of its motor and smell the pine in the windows as I picture my granddaughter giggling in the back seat, free to explore.

My Health: Battling CMT & Spinal Injury

I live each moment with Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome, a debilitating nerve disorder that saps strength from my hands and feet. I’ve also endured a severe T12 burst fracture and three broken ribs, leaving me in constant pain and physically unable to perform most jobs.

Every day is a negotiation between what my body can do and what must still be done. I push myself to care for my child, to cook meals, to keep our home warm, yet simple tasks become uphill battles.

A Father’s Unwavering Promise

My child is my world. As a single dad, I shoulder every responsibility: teacher, cook, and protector. I want to show them that even when life throws curveballs—broken bodies, broken engines, broken dreams—we pick ourselves up and keep going. But right now, being a full-time caregiver in the country setting comes with the walls of our home closing in on us.

A working car isn’t a luxury—it’s our gateway to food, medicine, social connection, and possibility.

The Roadmap to Independence

To replace the failed engine and get my Tiguan humming again, I need to raise $6000, broken down as follows:

• $1,500 – $2,500 for a reliable, used Volkswagen Tiguan engine

• $1,200 – $2,000 for professional labor, installation, fluids, gaskets, and safety checks

• Any extra to cover registration, basic maintenance, and an emergency roadside kit

Every dollar goes directly into this repair. No overhead. No detours. Just a dad, his kid, and one lonely car waiting to breathe again.

How You Can Help

1. Donate: No amount is too small. Even $5 helps inch us closer.

2. Share: Spread our story on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram—or with anyone you know who believes in second chances.

3. Pray or Send Good Vibes: Sometimes the kindest gift is the knowledge you’re not alone in the fight.

❤️ Thank You for Bearing Witness to Our Journey

If you’ve read this far, thank you for your time, your compassion, and your caring heart. You’re already making a difference simply by hearing our story. Together, I know we can transform this motionless Tiguan into our ticket off “Car Island” and back into the world.

With deepest gratitude and hope,

David

A father who refuses to give up

P.S. I’ll be posting updates and photos of the repair process so stay tuned, and let’s get rolling!