Jameson's Wheelchair Accessible Van

Jameson is an amazing little boy who has gone through more in his four years of life than most of us will ever go through in a lifetime. Born with Russell Silver Syndrome, a rare type of growth disorder, he has spent many months of his life in the hospital. He recovered from early bouts of illness and was living a relatively typical life for two years, with only his small size and g-tube feedings differentiating him from his preschool classmates. He is a charming, bright, funny, social and intelligent child who loves play-doh, trains, dinosaurs and minions! 

On March 1, 2016 he contracted a virus that for most folks would be nothing more than a bad cold, but nearly killed Jameson. After two weeks in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, intubated and on a ventilator, the doctors believed that he had an 80% chance of dying because his lungs were collapsing and that advanced life support was the only option. This very risky intervention directed the blood out of his body into a machine that took over the job of his heart and lungs. It was 22 harrowing days and the weeks following were scarcely better as he picked up new infections in the hospital. His kidneys had stopped working so he was on continuous dialysis, and heavy sedation kept him unconscious and immobilized for weeks. When he did awake it was apparent that his left side was not working properly and an MRI confirmed that he had suffered two strokes.

Nearly four months later, Jameson is in inpatient rehabilitation where he is progressing and responding well to therapeutic interventions. He has a tracheostomy and is still on a ventilator and is learning to utilize his body again, especially his left side. His kidneys are slowly resuming function. However, rehabilitation could take years and he will need to use an electric wheelchair upon discharge. In order to be able to transport Jameson with all of his new medical equipment (ventilator, suction machine, oxygen tank, feeding pump, wheelchair, etc.), he needs to have a reliable wheelchair accessible vehicle that will provide space, making life easier and much safer for him to travel to and from his appointments, and continue with outpatient rehabilitation. Jameson is expected to be discharged from the hospital in late July and having a safe way to get around is very important and necessary, ensuring his comfort and security, and will allow him to continue to thrive and explore his environment. Thank you for helping Jameson in his recovery process. His family appreciates your support and generosity!