Shelly's Van Fund

Hi - My name is Carol. I'm Shelly Powell's sister. Almost three years ago, Shelly was diagnosed with ALS Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also called Lou Gherig's Disease. It has been an unwelcome journey, but we have seen God direct in her care at each step. She is such a blessing to us all. You can learn more at: mountingwithwings.blogspot.com

The Lord has provided in many ways by unsolicited money gifts to the Powells given by caring family and friends. Many have offered to help them if there is a need, so I thought I'd share their present need.

Kevin and Shelly need to replace their present 2006 van that has 261K miles. It is quite a process to go anywhere with loading, unloading Shelly and juggling loading the wheelchair and ramp, as it's not handicap converted at all.

They decided to look into getting a conversion van that would allow Shelly to drive up the van's ramp and strap her wheelchair in the front passenger seat position. She would be able to stay in the wheelchair for the trip. We praise the Lord that she has had a higher energy level recently and is hopeful to be able to travel more in the near future.

Handicap accessible adapted "conversion vans" are usually double the cost of a regular van (can be $70,000 new) because of all the "add-ons."

They found a well-maintained, used 2014 Toyota Sienna van with only 54,000 miles owned by a man with ALS. Owners are asking $37,500 but are willing to sell it for $34,000, which is less than what it's worth.

Kevin and Shelly plan to sell their vehicles and add some savings, so they would have $14,000 to put into a van. That leaves $20,000 that they will need to be able to purchase this van. Can you help?

We are very grateful for whatever you can do to help with this need. God bless you in every way!