Kendalls Miracle
Donation protected
To our Kendall's Miracle family, we will never be able to adequately thank you for your prayers and support on this long journey. To those of you who are new on this journey, we are so glad! Kendall is 16-years-old and she loves the LORD, is a big book-reader, crochets, and works so hard on her recovery each day. In April of 2020, Kendall survived a rare spinal cord stroke, resulting in a spinal cord injury and paralysis from the waist down at the age of 12. Nobody anticipates experiencing a traumatic event like this. Even so, faith and community have provided encouragement along the way.
As we enter a new year, we have decided to open up and share some of Kendall and our family's current needs. Spinal cord injury recovery is tedious and expensive. Still, insurance does not cover Kendall's neuro-physical therapy, costing around $48,000 a year. This type of therapy is what her body needs to re-wire her system, promoting patterns to walk again. Additionally, certain medical supplies are not covered by insurance. Perhaps the biggest upcoming expense is the need for a more accessible vehicle.
For nearly 4 years, we have been blessed to have a vehicle that we can help Kendall transfer in and out of. However, this process has begun to take a toll on all of our bodies. For instance, the transfer is high and Kendall's shoulders need to be preserved (reaching overhead and pulling herself into the vehicle multiple times a day is taxing on her body). Similarly, her tone and spasticity make it very difficult for my mom and me to lift her legs into the car. In the same way, lifting the 40lb wheelchair into the high trunk is starting to cause back issues for us. Consequently, a minivan will be lower to the ground and safer for all of us. This will allow Kendall to be able to transfer easier on her own and gain more independence. We will have the van modified to create a way for Kendall's chair to be lifted into the vehicle. This would be a huge blessing for our family!
The van and modifications to make the van more user friendly for Kendall and those helping her will cost around $75,000.
Kendall continues to make incredible progress, and we are beyond thankful! She works hard each week at rehab, doing home exercises, working on virtual school, and strengthening her faith. Recently, Kendall has been working on tall kneeling walking, standing, sit-to-stands, core strength, and isolated movements. Remember, all of these are required before toddlers learn to walk! You can find pictures and videos of Kendall on her Instagram @kendalls_miracle .
We recognize there are numerous valuable and worthy causes for you to give to. That said, we would be honored if you would consider supporting Kendall. More so, we appreciate any prayers and encouragement! We know God is fighting for her, and we pray her journey reveals hope to you!
Organizer
Gary Tongate
Organizer
Maitland, FL