At the age of 20, Mariam Paré was the victim of gun violence and became paralyzed from the chest down. She later taught herself to paint by holding brushes in her mouth to become a talented painter.

January 26, 2022

I hope the true impact of all your contributions will show through in all the art I will create, and I hope to find opportunity to pay it forward. Thank you everyone from the bottom of my heart.

Mariam~

November 27, 2021

My girlfriend Mariam Paré has always been good at helping others, but she is not so great at asking for help when she needs it herself. This Giving Tuesday I would like to reach out to friends, family, and supporters on her behalf…

If you don't know, Mariam sustained a spinal cord injury and became a quadriplegic in her 20’s. She has faced incredible difficulties, and despite the circumstances, has led an extraordinary life. She gives so much to her community, and goes out of her way to help others. She is a talented artist and mouth-painter whose vision of the world deserves to have it’s own place to grow.

Even though she makes it look easy, Mariam's life is not easy. Mariam has struggled against the odds to maintain her independence.

Despite having physical limitations and health challenges, she has to work to cover out-of-pocket expenses that the average person doesn't have to worry about. Having to pay for daily caregivers just to get up in the morning or go to bed at night, the extra expense of a wheelchair accessible vehicle, adaptive equipment, and the daunting costs associated with making housing accessible, which are NOT covered by insurance. She has never had a fundraiser or asked for financial help from anyone. And up until now, she has struggled all on her own.

Her incredible spirit has brought her this far, but I cannot help but think that people who know Mariam, would want to help her out in a meaningful way. And that is why I kindly want to ask if you would join in on our fundraising efforts.

This Giving Tuesday you can help give a hand up to a person who truly deserves it.

Any additional funds raised beyond our goal, will go to additional items for Mariam such as ceiling lift, or any other disability related supplies not covered through her Medicaid Insurance.

I'm asking for your help in donating to Mariam's Help Hope live fundraising campaign. Donate large, small, or even the act of sharing this post is a huge help and greatly appreciated!

Donations are 100% tax deductible. Also, there will be no credit card fee for online donations between midnight on Tuesday, November 30 and 3 AM Eastern time on Wednesday, December 1.

My sincere thanks and gratitude,

JR