Ash's Accessible Van Fund

Hi Friends,

I have been forced to turn to GoFundMe to get safe and reliable transportation.

My 2005 modified Honda Element needs to be retired to a green pasture. As you may know, I live with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, which is a genetic condition that progressively weakens my muscles. But this doesn’t slow me down!

Currently I live with my sweet doggo in my own apartment in North Carolina. I'm a pretty independent guy, but the cost of these vans is outrageous and beyond what I can afford on my own. These days, being 25 with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, I use a lot of equipment that also has to fit in my vehicle. Everywhere I travel, I have to go by van, since airplanes are not yet accessible for my power wheelchair. I am working on that too - advocating for All Wheels Up.

I am planning a trip this summer to visit my family in Vermont. I need a new (to me) van. A Toyota Sienna side entrance ramp with lowered floor will give me the room I need and allow me to cargo my breathing machines, rolling lift for transfers, and of course my dog's lil travel kennel. She is a great traveling companion.

Beyond this trip, an accessible vehicle allows me to get to doctor’s appointments and get out of my apartment. Not having a way to get around is not only isolating, but expensive– the last time I had to take a wheelchair taxi to the hospital (not an emergency, but only a hospital could do what I needed) it cost me $150.00 for 6 miles roundtrip. Securing a new van would quite literally be life-changing.

I've applied for assistance, and been turned down, by two charitable organizations this year: All Things Possible and Jett Foundation. I am applying for a personal loan and have secured a Medicaid waiver, which will cover a portion of the vehicle modification, but still need to raise $ 35k. I am working directly with a national established dealer to ensure I am getting the best price possible.

Every dollar donated will be used to cover the cost of the van.

I ask for your help in obtaining the safety and freedom an accessible vehicle provides. If you cannot donate, please consider sharing. Every donation counts!

Thanks for reading and sharing my fundraiser. You are making a big difference in my life.

Ash

P.S. Check out my road trip playlist on Spotify for some summer listening: unplanned roadtrip