Jack Richards is a bright, loving 6-year-old who has faced more challenges in his short life than most people do in a lifetime. Born at just 25 weeks and weighing barely over a pound, Jack spent 144 days in the NICU fighting for his life. He was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, microcephaly, polymicrogyria, and a rare GRIN2B-related neurodevelopmental disorder. Despite these complex diagnoses, Jack’s determination and joyful spirit shine through every single day.
Jack is defined by so much more than his medical challenges. He has an infectious smile, a love for music, animals, and being outdoors. He adores his two dogs, enjoys family walks, and loves the feeling of wind in his hair during stroller rides. He also has a special fondness for school — where he works hard alongside his classmates at Tomlinson Elementary. His teachers often say that Jack’s laughter and perseverance inspire everyone around him.
Because of his disabilities, Jack uses a wheelchair to get around and specialized equipment like a stander and therapy supports to help with mobility and posture. As Jack grows, his needs are changing — and transportation has become one of the biggest challenges for our family. Getting him in and out of our current vehicle is becoming increasingly difficult and unsafe. A wheelchair-accessible van would allow Jack to travel safely and comfortably to school, therapy, doctor appointments, and community outings. It would also allow our family to spend more time doing what every family loves — enjoying life together without constant physical strain or worry.
Unfortunately, accessible vehicles are extremely expensive, and insurance does not help with the cost. A van that meets Jack’s needs, including the required ramp and secure tie-down system, is estimated to cost around $70,000. That’s why we’re turning to our community — family, friends, and caring supporters — for help.
Your support through Help Hope Live will make a life-changing difference for Jack. With an accessible van, we’ll be able to safely transport him wherever he needs to go — from medical appointments to therapy intensives to fun family outings. It will open doors for greater independence, more opportunities for inclusion, and most importantly, more joyful moments together.
That’s why we are asking for your help. By donating to Help Hope Live in Jack’s name, you can help this brave little boy get the vehicle he needs to become more independent and reach his full potential. Your donation is tax-deductible and can make a world of difference for Jack and his family.
Thank you for believing in Jack and helping him roll toward more independence, comfort, and adventure!
Jack 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!
