Support Whitney's Independence and Safety

Hello, my name is Whitney Robbins.

I'm a 34-year-old single mom of 2 beautiful girls who are 9 and 6.

In 2019, I was unexpectedly diagnosed with a spinal cord injury. My lupus attacked my spinal cord, leaving me paralyzed from the waist down. Since then, I've come a long way with getting around and taking care of my children by myself, but unfortunately, I still face daily challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining my independence and my safety at home. My current biggest challenge is my master bathroom. It is the only bathroom in my home that I can fit into, but it is far from accessible. My shower bench that I've been using for 5.5 years is uneven because it doesn't completely fit into my shower enclosure, and water sometimes gets on the floor, making it a slipping hazard for me and my wheelchair when transferring back into it. Even worse, I could fall, and lastly, water damage to the only bathroom that I can use. These issues make it difficult, unsafe, and stressful for me, especially while caring for my children alone and managing my health.

I've recently had a PT and OT come into my home and deem it as unsafe because I don't fit completely in my shower, and adding the factors of the layout of my shower enclosure and the uneven bench.

As for additional independence, I am my children's sole provider. My other biggest challenge has been getting back behind the wheel. I've been working with a certified company to do the modifications to my current car and have gone through the process of what I would need to add to my car, such as hand controls and a knob for the wheel. This would be so beneficial to my girls and me. I wouldn't have to rely on family and friends to take me to appointments, the grocery store, and to church and school events for my girls. It would give me the independence to do it myself.

What we're looking for help with:

- Removing garden tub and current shower

- Installing wheelchair accessible shower

- Installing grab bars for safety

- Removing current sink counter/vanity

- Installing wheel-under sink counter/vanity

- Floor repairs and bracing the floor for new shower

- Widening the doorway

- Installing a new door

- Installing cabinets for storage

- Modifications to car to be able to drive using hand controls

- Adjusting the incline to the ramp so I can wheel myself up

I have ask mcop disability network and michigan rehabilitation services and they can not help because im only 34 and non veteran.

Having a proper accessible home and car modifications will improve my quality of life, ensure my safety, and give my children a sense of security knowing I can care for myself in a safe environment. It's all about dignity, independence, and peace of mind for my little family.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for reading my story and considering a donation. Your support truly makes a difference.