Please Help Me Replace My Irreparable Wheelchair-Accessible Car — From a PhD Student

Hi Everyone. This is hard for me to share, but I’m doing so because I truly need help.

I’m currently a PhD student in a demanding academic program in Los Angeles. To get to classes and fulfill my student responsibilities, medical appointments, and daily life, I rely on a wheelchair-accessible car. Until recently, I had one. That car is now completely worn out and beyond repair. After multiple visits to the mechanic, I was told there is nothing more that can be done to make it safe or reliable and losing my only accessible car has changed everything for me. What might seem like a temporary inconvenience to others has become a significant daily barrier. Every outing now requires careful planning, stress, and uncertainty.

I’ve always worked hard to support myself and try to give back to the community as much as possible. I was able to earn my current car during my master’s program, with the help of university fellowships that made independence and stability possible. I truly did not expect to find myself in such a current dilemma and was certain my car would make it through until my program was over but unfortunately life is full of losses and unknowns. Although my PhD program is fully funded, the stipend is extremely limited and leaves no room for major, unexpected expenses—especially the cost of a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. As many of you may know, there is little support available through government agencies for this kind of need, and ride-share services simply aren’t reliable enough to meet the strict timing and physical demands of my program. Being late or unable to arrive isn’t just inconvenient—it means missing critical responsibilities and tasks and even worse not being able to fulfill my phD to be able to give back to the community in the future.

Accessible transportation isn’t a luxury for me. It’s what allows me to stay independent, continue my education, and show up fully in the work I care deeply about. Without it, each day feels heavier and more fragile.

The videos shared here explains more about my story and why I’m asking for help. This isn’t easy to share, but I’ve reached a point where I can’t move forward alone. Funds raised will go toward replacing my irreparable wheelchair-accessible car and the necessary modifications so I can safely continue my PhD program.

If you’re able to donate, thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you’re not, sharing this page truly helps. Your support—in any form—means more than I can express.

P.S. because the media uploading tool has given me so much trouble uploading videos, I've posted them below.

Kiana entering her vehicle

Kiana in the drivers seat

Kiana asking for support --video

With gratitude,

Kiana