31 Jan 2021
A mother and daughter in need of a wheelchair accessible van finally got their wish thanks to generous community members in Beaumont, Texas.
When Melissa Johnson asked for help with getting a vehicle to more easily transport her daughter who has cerebral palsy, the donations began pouring in, according to 12 News Now.
“Grace was born at 29 weeks and suffered a brain bleed at birth. After 3 months in the NICU, Grace became my daughter through adoption,” Melissa said on the nonprofit group Love Rescues website:
Throughout her 6 years of life, Grace has overcome many obstacles including 4 brain surgeries. She is daily learning to overcome challenges and meet critical milestones. Grace has hydrocephalus, a VP shunt, and cerebral palsy affecting mainly her legs and her ability to walk. Her legs are very stiff and standing or walking independently is not possible at this time.
Melissa said now, new adventures awaits them thanks to an outpouring of love.
“For the first time in a long time, we’re going to be able to go places and let Grace enjoy life again, Melissa said. We’ll get to go to the library. I can’t wait to take her to school on Monday. Just all the things that have been such a challenge for so long, today that changes. And we get to kind of go at ease again and to make life more enjoyable.”
Credit: Jana Cash
The new van was specially customized with Grace s growing body in mind. If the Johnsons keep the van long enough, Grace may be able to drive it herself.