Hello, my name is Angie Bruton. I’m 60 years old, single, and I live in an income-based apartment in Nashville, TN. I’m a proud mom of two grown children and “GiGi” to three young grandsons. I’m in need of a handicapped accessible van.
In 1981, at the age of 14, I was diagnosed with a large congenital lipoma located at the base of my brain, extending into my cervical spinal cord. Due to the size and location of the tumor—approximately the size of a grapefruit—surgical removal was necessary. As a consequence of this surgery, I sustained a spinal cord injury at the C2 and C3 levels. I now require the use of a power wheelchair for mobility and depend on accessible transportation to participate in medical appointments, community and church activities, and time with family and friends. I enjoy living life to the fullest and I want to be as independent as possible.
I moved to Nashville in December of 2004 and worked for the State from 2005-2013. I had to retire through disability in November of 2013. It broke my heart, but my body could no longer handle working full-time. I worked part-time at Bridgestone Arena for a few years, but then Covid shut everything down. I would love to work part-time there again someday!
In 2015, I purchased a 2005 Toyota Sienna handicapped accessible van. I was so happy to have a van. I used it until the age, and wear and tear got the best of it. The sliding door and manual ramp are no longer usable, so I am needing to obtain another van. Having a van enriches my life tremendously! It allows me to have independence, to safely transport myself and my power chair, have reliable transportation to medical appointments, church, and shopping. I can visit my elderly mom who lives in another state and it gives me the opportunity to possibly help others.
Because I’m living on my Social Security (which I had to start drawing at age 46) and a small pension from the State, I can’t afford a monthly payment to replace this van. I’ve been searching online for financial assistance through grants from companies and agencies, with very little success. I’ve also been putting the word out locally to see if there are charities or individuals who could assist. Possibly even a dealership or corporation that would donate a van that could be converted. Thankfully, I’ve found the non-profit organization, Help Hope Live. They are assisting me in fundraising for a handicapped accessible van. I’m a very sociable person and would be so incredibly grateful to have a van and be independent and productive again. I have so much more life to live. Thank you so much reading my story. I appreciate your prayers and any financial assistance you may be able to give!
Family and friends of Angie Bruton are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund a handicapped accessible van.
Angie 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!
