Mariya's New Van

In 2009 a life-altering swimming accident left my daughter, Mariya, a quadriplegic. At the time I was able to purchase a handicap accessible van, but as you can imagine, 16 years has taken its toll on a large van with a wheelchair lift. The van has been breaking down to the point that we were stranded after visiting family in another state. And still, after many costly repairs on a fixed income, it remains barely functioning. It is only a matter of time before it is completely unusable, which would make it impossible for my daughter to access care or even just live life outside home.

I worked at the St. Louis Post Dispatch for over 30 years, but was recently forced into early retirement due to my plant closing. I am trying to raise money to cover the cost of a new van. I have already raised as much money as I can by myself, and am left with a gap of at least $30,000.

Due to the weight of her power wheelchair, Mariya is not eligible for Call-A-Ride, so a personal vehicle is the only way for her to get care and visit friends or family.

Any amount you can contribute would be appreciated and go directly toward meeting our goal. Thank you!