Tasha's wheelchair swing at the park!

Every so often, if you are lucky, a person will come into your life and make you rethink what is important. My person was and still is my niece, Tasha Jeppeson.

Tasha left us six months ago, at the young age of 30. For her, that was considered old, because in the beginning we were told she wouldn’t make it to her 7th birthday. Challenge accepted!

She touched more hearts in this world than I could ever touch in my lifetime.

She endured painful surgeries, but complained more when someone was standing between her and a movie she was trying to watch.

She could give you “the look” that would make you step down and then two seconds later, show you that smile that simply brightened up an entire house.

She gave you a cause, worth fighting for and believing in.

She made you realize that she was not the one who needed “fixed”.

She made you question God and then believe in him with your whole being.

She brought people together, instead of tearing them apart.

She was a teacher. She taught more about people with special needs and abilities simply by living than a college class could ever offer.

You were a better person for knowing Tasha.

How do you honor a person who made such an impact? You pay it forward. And we need your help!

Tasha loved going on rides when she was younger and her parents could hold her! As she grew older, her options became limited because most did not have some type of wheelchair accommodation.

The Project:

Some of us who love Tasha have received permission, and happily so, to have a wheelchair accessible swing constructed in the Newell, Iowa city park; Tasha’s home town. This project will not be cheap in dollars, but the return on investment will be well worth every single penny. We are looking at a high quality swing that will be easily incorporated with the current look of the play area at the park. The swing, the ground surfacing and other supplies are needed for a safe and enjoyable experience.

In our research, there seem to be very few wheelchair accessible swings in the U.S. Newell is a small town, central to a lot of larger towns/cities in Iowa. By adding the swing, it will be an inexpensive destination for families with members dependent on wheelchairs to go for a picnic, to enjoy the great outdoors, laughter and a ride on the swing! Schools, facilities that serve special needs and abilities and nursing homes could incorporate a ride on the swing in their activities. It would provide a simple enjoyment for people that have special needs that we take for granted.

I know Tasha would be proud of this project! With your help, we are making this dedication to honor Tasha, to be enjoyed by many! All proceeds will go towards the purchase of and installation of the swing at the park. We appreciate any assistance you can provide. No amount is too small! Thank you in advance!