I’m raising funds for a new wheelchair.
The one I currently have is already falling apart after just five months of use. The tires are worn down, it creaks constantly, one of the screws is stripped and won’t stay in, and the entire chair wobbles badly—making it unsafe and unreliable.
I live with several disabling conditions, including POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), fibromyalgia, and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. My POTS is severe and makes it extremely difficult to stand or walk for more than a few moments. On most days, standing causes near-fainting spells (presyncope) or full fainting episodes. My heart rate can spike dangerously high—just walking from my bedroom to the living room recently sent it up to 164 bpm. I receive weekly IV fluids to help manage my symptoms.
While I can still walk short distances on occasion, doing everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, or running errands without a wheelchair leaves me completely wiped out or puts my health at risk. I rely on my wheelchair to safely function and participate in daily life. I can’t go to the store, get through a cleaning day, or even cook dinner comfortably without it.
Unfortunately, I’m on disability income, which just covers my basic living expenses and the needs of my service dog. I can’t afford to buy a new chair out of pocket. My insurance won’t cover a replacement for another 4.5 years—even though the current one is clearly not built to last and is breaking down fast.
I’m also in a tough spot because I need a specific type of wheelchair—a hemi-sized, foldable model—so it can travel with me in the car and handle daily use. These models are more durable, but they’re also more expensive and harder to find through donation programs.
If you’re able to help, even just by sharing this campaign, it would mean the world. A working, reliable wheelchair allows me to maintain my independence, stay out of bed, and keep living life to the fullest possible extent.
Thank you so much for reading and supporting in any way you can. ❤️
