Accessible Van for Terry Hebert

Terry Hebert is a loving mother, grandma, wife, sister, friend and retired teacher for George McCann Catholic School. Terry was initially diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2005. In 2016, it Metastisized (cancer has spread to her bones). She currently has Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer. In the last six months, her cancer has progressed into her liver and more bones throughout her body. She cannot walk without assistance because of the progression of her cancer. As her family, we are looking into investing in a wheelchair-accessible van for her to get to numerous doctor and chemo appointments and be able to travel outside of Visalia.

Even taking her to doctor's appointments - the most difficult parts are transferring in and out of the car.

Transferring for Terry looks like two people assisting Terry in standing up from the bed to get into the wheelchair, then out of the wheelchair into the car, then out of the car back into the wheelchair. You get the idea. It's a lot, and it's a very high-stress situation since our biggest fear is another bone breaking.

In the past year, she's lost the use of both legs, has broken an arm, has neuropathy in her hands and feet, and has undergone three surgeries since February of 2021.

We've been able to purchase a reclining wheelchair that makes transport more comfortable. We've found a van that allows her wheelchair to roll in and lock into place, which means she doesn't have to get out of the chair.

To even lease this van will require a non-negotiable $10,000 deposit.

We are so fortunate to have such a positive community of support. We could not have gotten through the last few years without the help of our friends and family, and we appreciate any help you can give.