I desperately need this vehicle to change my life for the better, both professionally, medically, and socially. I currently can only rely on the city bus or light rail system. Public transportation is notoriously unreliable. I’ve been denied rides because ramps don’t work or because the wheelchair spots were full. I’ve been injured due to drivers not properly tying down my chair. I’ve been made late due to ramp malfunctions, slow-moving drivers, and being left in the bus because the driver forgot to let me off (true story!). Currently there are almost no wheelchair taxi options that don’t require a 24 hour notice or cost more than the regular vehicles. Because my power chair weighs over 400lbs and doesn’t fold up, I’m limited to wheelchair vans, and cannot transfer into a regular car. With the COVID-19 pandemic happening, I don’t want to risk taking public transportation or ride shares as I’m not willing to compromise my health to go anywhere. With the Arizona summer heat reaching well above 100 degrees, I’m pretty much stuck in my apartment now.
Having transportation would help me in so many ways. I’d love to move up within my current job, but because of the reasons above, that’s easier said than done without a vehicle. I’d love to see more of my own city and state. I’d love to be able to go to the store and load up with more than what I can fit in my lap. I’d love to go through a drive-thru and order some fries (it’s the little things, ya know?)! Having my own (accessible) transportation -a luxury that many able-bodied people may take for granted- is something that I would be forever grateful for.
I have a goal of $50,000 to help with the cost of the vehicle, wheelchair modifications, and driving training for my license. I’m aiming for something durable, cost efficient, and eco-friendly – a Toyota Sienna is the goal! The type I need will allow me to access the driver’s seat with a ramp and drive using hand controls.
Anything helps and everything is tremendously appreciated! If you can’t help out financially, sharing my page is equally appreciated. It would mean the world to me for you to join me on this adventure!
BACKGROUND STORY:
In 2006, I was in a car accident that broke my neck and severed my spinal cord. As a result, I’m a quadriplegic. I was pushed off the road by a semi-truck that never stopped driving. A hit and run, and in just seconds my family fell apart. My 6-year-old stepsister was killed and the remaining four of us -my dad, brother, stepmom, and myself – were rushed to separate trauma centers.
I spent several months in the hospital where I was intubated and monitored while I healed from a spinal fusion. I had two tracheotomies, the second one resulting in the surgeons accidentally puncturing my esophagus, causing an esophageal fistula, which began an excruciating 8-year downward spiral of medical setbacks.
I was discharged home a year after my accident. I spent a lot of time bedridden during the first eight years of my recovery because of carelessness and lack of education. All of my care was self-advocated due to my parents being Deaf and there being communication barriers with the medical staff. In total, I had 8 surgeries on my neck, two on my bladder, multiple feeding tubes, and two blood clots in my legs. Not to mention endless IVs, A-lines, and power ports. Blood transfusions, and antibiotics for months at a time. Infections, skin breakdown, osteomyelitis, hyperhydrosis. I’ve honestly lost track.
Finally, my insurance authorized treatment from the Mayo Clinic. Their team put me back together as if it were the easiest thing in the world and suddenly after years of medical chaos, I reached a level of stability that I will never, ever take for granted. Now I hardly have time for my bed. Discovering my independence since that time has been nothing short of an adventure.
Since then, I enrolled and attended ASU and worked my way up to working full time. I live independently without caregivers, so my day-to-day is pretty exhausting, but I’m proud of what I can do! I’m just allowing myself to accept help with something that is extraordinarily important to me. Thank you for taking the time to read my story!
Family and friends of Kylie Thompson are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with Catastrophic Injury.
Kylie has chosen to fundraise for Help Hope Live in part because Help Hope Live assures fiscal accountability of funds raised and tax deductibility for contributors. Contributors can be sure donations will be used to pay or reimburse medical and related expenses. To make a tax-deductible donation to this fundraising campaign, click on the Give button.
For more information, please contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399.
Thank you for your support!
