Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle For Michael Napier

Hi, my name is Braden Forgety and I want to tell you about my grandfather; Michael Napier. My Papaw is what the Doctors call a "COVID Long Hauler". He was diagnosed with COVID-19 in August 2020 and almost died. He spent 3 weeks on a ventilator and overcame the virus in what the doctors and nurses can only describe as a miracle. Following his hospital stay, my Papaw spent the next several months regaining his strength and learning how to walk again. Part of the long lasting effects of COVID-19, is my Papaw has a "drop foot".

Fast forward to March 13, 2021 - Papaw was walking with a cane and on his way to "normal" physical health. On the early morning of Saturday March 13th, Papaw woke up with stroke symptoms. This was the beginning of the end so we thought. Papaw spent another 2 weeks on a ventilator and our family was instructed by Papaw's neuro surgeon that he had no brain activity and that even if Papaw were to live, he would have great physical and mental impairment. Blood clots/strokes are another side effect of COVID-19.

God had a BIGGER plan. Papaw became responsive and was able to be taken off of the ventilator. He has zero mental impairment and is as sharp as he has always been. However, the physical impairment is substantial. Papaw has balance issues, is unable to stand or walk on his own and requires the use of a wheelchair. He is currently waiting on a motorized wheelchair which will provide him with a similar quality of life that he was used to prior to COVID-19.

A little bit about my Papaw: He has a life long passion to help others. He is a Pastor of a small church here in Knoxville, TN. Prior to his COVID-19 diagnosis, Papaw had completed his doctorate and began a Christian Counseling service, offering free counseling to those battling anxiety and depression during the pandemic. To know my Papaw is to love him. He is well respected, has a servant heart and would give you his last dollar and tell you that "you can't out give God".

Not having the ability to safely and effectively transport him is a detriment to his ministry and passion. I would love to raise enough money for he and my Granna to purchase a reliable used wheelchair accessible vehicle. They have priced them and have come to the conclusion that due to their limited income they would not be able to afford one right now. The prices range from $30k-$40k.

My Papaw does so much for his family and for others. There's no doubt in my mind that this would be used to continue to help others and give Papaw his life back. For a man that always does for others, let's do this for him! My goal is to raise $25,000 by Sunday, August 8th 2021. Please share!

To learn more about my Papaw, watch the video above or see his story here .

UPDATE - 7/26/21
- I have changed our goal from $40,000 to $25,000 as we are starting to find more vans in that price range.
- People have asked if they can write a check, send money through Venmo, etc and yes you can!! 

Papaw's Venmo is MikeNapier1611

You can mail checks to:
Michael Napier
c/o Berea Baptist Church
124 Inskip Dr
Knoxville, TN 37912