Rowan Wallace is our sweet 4-year-old fighter, and the heart of our big family of six. He has a big sister, Emerson (6), a twin sister, Ellie (4), and a little brother, Holcomb (3). Rowan was born with congenital CMV, which caused profound deafness, cerebral palsy, and other challenges that impact his mobility and ability to verbally communicate. Even so, Rowan works so hard every single day in preschool, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy. With his walker, braces, wheelchair, and “talker” device, he’s learning how to move, grow, and connect with the world around him.
Despite his challenges, Rowan is full of joy. He loves the movie Cars, swimming, playing with friends, and zooming around with his siblings in Power Wheels rides. But as Rowan grows, transporting him has become harder and harder. Right now, we have to lift him in and out of the car, load his heavy wheelchair, and juggle the logistics of keeping everyone safe. What we need is a wheelchair-accessible van, where Rowan can safely ride in his wheelchair and be part of everyday family life without the constant physical strain and limitations.
The truth is, these vans are incredibly expensive because the modifications can only be done to newer vehicles. A new modified vehicle was quoted to us at about $90,000, but we are hopeful we can find a gently used Ford Transit for around $70,000. While still a huge investment, this would be absolutely life-changing for our family. With this van, Rowan could join his siblings for everyday adventures, and our family could simply ride together safely and easily—something that so many take for granted.
We have never done anything like this before, but there is a time and a season for everything. With the encouragement of our advocate, we were reminded that our community would want to know about this need and would want the chance to come together and help Rowan. Every gift, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to giving Rowan safe and accessible transportation. Katie, Rowan’s mom, will be sharing updates here along the journey so you can walk with them through this season of hope and accessibility.
Thank you for helping us make Rowan’s world more accessible and giving him the chance to experience all the things other kids do—together with his family.
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