Trying to Gain Independence

Hi, my name is Crystal and I’ve been physically disabled since April 19, 2010. I contracted bacterial meningitis when a big mass at the base of my spine showed up on an MRI, which resulted in emergency surgery.  After this emergency surgery, I woke up numb from the waist down.  I used a walker up until July 2015.  I thought stress was causing the further dysfunction of my legs, so a visit to the MRI machine and my neurosurgeon, and the results were not good. I have arachnoid cysts and a syrinx of the spinal cord.  So now I use a wheelchair 100% of the time to get around.  I rely on my co-workers at work and my husband at home to assist me with my wheelchair.  I would love to be able to go places by myself, like the grocery store, doctor appointments, or even the park! 

My current vehicle is a 2005 Honda Accord with over 158K miles.  My wheelchair fits in the trunk and I have hand controls that allow me to drive it.  The time has come to purchase a newer vehicle and try to gain a little more independence. My goal is to purchase a new vehicle by the end of 2018.  I would love to be able to leave work when I’m not feeling well and go home.  Currently, my husband also must leave work to meet me at home for me to get out of the car.  This is just one example of my dependence on people.  I would love to have an ADA vehicle that would allow me to be a little more independent.  These types of vehicles are expensive to buy and maintain, so I’m reaching out to you for help.  Your thoughtful donation will go to the conversion cost. Any small donation you can make is appreciated to help make me more independent.  Thank you for taking the time to read part of my story.