Jonathan Liang

We are writing with heavy hearts but also with great hope, to share the story of someone very special—Jonathan Liang, an extraordinary 18-year-old from Summit. Jonathan is a recent National Merit Scholar graduate of Summit High School, a talented athlete, and a soon-to-be freshman at Lehigh University. He has always been full of promise, kindness, and determination.

This summer, while surfing, Jonathan suffered a sudden and rare spinal cord injury called surfer’s myelopathy. In an instant, his life was forever changed—he is now paraplegic and unable to move from the waist down. Through it all, Jonathan’s courage and positive spirit have amazed everyone who knows him.

Right now, the Liang family needs the love and support of our community. Insurance does not cover many of the urgent expenses they face, including:

– Home modifications – upwards of $150,000

– A wheelchair ramp – $5,000

– A power-assisted wheelchair – $15,000

– A paved runway for home access – $25,000

– A stair glide – $3,000

– Outpatient therapies – $20,000

– Wheelchair accessible vehicle – $100,000

In addition, the family is in dire need of pro bono or reduced-cost assistance with construction, medical-legal services, and medical accounting.

We invite you to stand with Jonathan by making a tax-deductible donation through Help Hope Live. Every gift—no matter the size—will go directly toward helping Jonathan regain independence and move forward with dignity and strength.

Jonathan’s road ahead will not be easy, but he is surrounded by love—and with your generosity, he will also be surrounded by hope. Please join us in lifting Jonathan and his family during this difficult time.

With heartfelt thanks,

Phil Vehap and Karen Wauters