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Handicapp Van For Gloria

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Just for a moment try to imagine a life full of pain every day, when every step you try to take is filled with muscle and joint weakness. Imagine that every day it is a tremendous effort to get out of bed in order to face a new day head on. Not only facing the day head on but doing it by yourself. That is what my sister experiences every moment of her life now.

Gloria has had polio since childhood. Growing up I never realized that my sister had a disability. I have watched my sister pursue everything she attempted. Gloria worked as an accountant, but wanted a more rewarding career. Her desire to help others was especially keen. I often recalled conversations where people tried to discourage her from becoming a nurse. She proved them wrong and became a LPN working in Pediatric and Maternity Departments. After many years in nursing Gloria returned home to care for our mother. She entered the University of Oswego to earn her degree in Education. Once again she was told that no way could she be a teacher with her disability and once again my sister prevailed.

Gloria has always led a very independent life. However, her mobility has lessen dramatically. No one who can be with her to make her days easier. Gloria volunteers full time as secretary of Pine Meadows Wesleyan church. She continues to volunteer at a hospital in Syracuse, NY assisting in the Spiritual Care Department. This gives my sister purpose to keep moving.

The effects of the polio has been slowly taking away her freedom and ripping away her independence. Her ability to maintain her independence requires a handicap accessible van. If you could see the struggle she goes through every day just to drive her car, it would make you cry. She rides her scooter to the back of the van and pretty much crawls to get to the driver’s seat. The ability to ride her scooter into the driver’s seat would make a difference to her. This would allow Gloria to live her life independently. I take for granted that I can move around freely, this is something that my sister will never be able to do. 

There is no money to purchase a vehicle to have the accessibility of bringing her to the driver’s seat.  For Gloria not to have the ability to have her freedom would end her livelihood of working and volunteering.  Independence is her ability to lead an active life.  A life that is filled with every joy. A life that those of us who don’t have a disability take for granted. 

The ability to maintain her independence in continuing her volunteer work will be an inspiration for others.  Gloria, my sister and friend is a pillar of strength to me and many others.

Any amount of donation would be so greatly appreciated. 

Please send this link to your friends, families, co-workers.  Remember everything is confidential
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Donations 

  • Rev. Terry Culbertson
    • $150 
    • 8 yrs
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Organizer

Helene M Riley
Organizer
Spring Hill, FL

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