In Support of The Gramajo Family
Support Registry
Browse all the options to help, in one place.
Meet Gabe and His Family
Gabe just turned 9, and he’s growing fast! At nearly 75 pounds, plus a 70-pound wheelchair, daily transportation has become a major challenge. Gabe lives with CACNA1A-related disorder, a rare genetic condition. CACNA1A is a very large gene on the 19th chromosome. Variations in this gene can cause neurodegenerative disease and a variety of neurological symptoms. Cacna1a is also the source of Gabe's epilepsy, specifically, Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, Partial Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), and Hemiplegic Migraines.
Gabe just turned 9, and he’s growing fast! At nearly 75 pounds, plus a 70-pound wheelchair, daily transportation has become a major challenge. Gabe lives with CACNA1A-related disorder, a rare genetic condition. CACNA1A is a very large gene on the 19th chromosome. Variations in this gene can cause neurodegenerative disease and a variety of neurological symptoms. Cacna1a is also the source of Gabe's epilepsy, specifically, Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, Partial Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), and Hemiplegic Migraines.
The Challenge
Currently, Gabe’s family lifts him into their large SUV and disassembles his wheelchair to fit it in the trunk. This process is time-consuming, physically demanding, and unsafe. After attending a disabilities expo last fall and testing accessible vehicles, the family realized mini vans were too small for their family of six.
Currently, Gabe’s family lifts him into their large SUV and disassembles his wheelchair to fit it in the trunk. This process is time-consuming, physically demanding, and unsafe. After attending a disabilities expo last fall and testing accessible vehicles, the family realized mini vans were too small for their family of six.
The Need
The family is working with a dealer to secure a full-size accessible van—specifically a Ford Transit—that will provide:
The family is working with a dealer to secure a full-size accessible van—specifically a Ford Transit—that will provide:
- Safe transportation for Gabe and his wheelchair
- Proper support during travel, preventing strain and injury due to lifting
- Space for the whole family, allowing everyone to travel together comfortably
- Accessibility for all daily activities, therapies, appointments, and outings
Due to the modifications required for Gabe’s needs, this van costs approximately $150,000—far more than a standard family vehicle.
The Reality
Most families don’t realize it, but while raising a neurotypical child costs around $240,000, according to the Department of Agriculture, raising a child with a diagnosis or disability can cost $1.4–$2.4 million over childhood. It’s not an even playing field, and families like Gabe’s face enormous challenges.
Follow Their Journey
Erica and Gary will be posting updates here about their family and progress as they work toward securing the van and improving daily life for Gabe and the whole family.
Thank you for helping make Gabe's world more accessible and giving him the chance to experience all the things other kids do—together with his family.
Updates
Keep up to date as needs change.
Feb 13, 2026
Go-Gabe-Go Lemonade Stand, 2/28!
Get ready for the Go-Gabe-Go Lemonade Stand fundraiser! On National...
Feb 08, 2026
One Month update-17% raised!
Thank you for helping us raise 17% in ONE MONTH!We're looking for y...
Jan 27, 2026
Fundraising Update-Lemonade time!
I'm very fortunate that one of my best friends from college, Meliss...
- Created Jan 07, 2026
- •
- Disability
- Report Support Registry
Support Registry
Browse all the options to help, in one place.
Words of Support
Donate, send meals, or lend a hand to include words of support.
Mel Lewis
Yoagnis Brito
Adam Roberts
Anonymous
Delbra
Sarah Bultmann