Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m reaching out to ask for your help as I try to raise funds for a new wheelchair-accessible van.
My current van is a 2008 model with ongoing mechanical issues, and it’s becoming increasingly unsafe and unreliable. I commute to Toronto every day — a two-hour drive each way — and public wheelchair-accessible transportation isn’t a viable option, as it costs over $300 per trip. That simply isn’t sustainable.
Some of you know I’ve been privately reaching out over the past few months because I’ve been drowning in debt, trying to stay afloat. Living in Toronto is incredibly expensive, and I’m doing my best to keep up, but it’s overwhelming.
On top of that, I’ve been living with a terminal bladder condition, and I require ongoing medical support. Back in 2022, my father quit his job to care for me full time — something I’ll always be grateful for — but it’s taken a serious financial toll on both of us.
Earlier this year, I also lost my job due to discrimination related to my use of speech-to-text technology. Thankfully, I was able to find a new job relatively quickly, but the disruption set me back significantly.
For a long time, I was unable to get the care I needed living back home in Newfoundland, and the lack of support there led to a really dark time in my life. I was struggling with suicidal thoughts, but moving to Toronto gave me access to better healthcare, community, and stability — and I’m proud to say I’m no longer in that place. I’m fighting to keep going and live as fully and independently as I can.
But I can’t do it alone right now. If you’re able to donate or share this story, it would mean everything. Your support will help me get the safe, reliable transportation I need to keep working, attending medical appointments, and staying connected to the life I’ve built here.
Thank you so much for reading and for any help you can give.
