Risa Pyles is a reading teacher at Greenwood Elementary School in Brookeville, Maryland. Ms. Pyles suffered a fall at Thanksgiving, 2006, that left her with a spinal cord injury, paralyzed from the chest down. Although she uses a power wheelchair, she has resumed teaching part-time at Greenwood Elementary as well as being a parent.
Insurance pays for only part of Risa’s care and she is not able to cover all of her needs on her limited income. The community is stepping up to help raise funds for a handicap-accessible van to get Risa to and from school, as well as a special bed to prevent medical complications.
Updates (2)
January 8, 2018
Risa has been living as a quadriplegic for over 10 years now. It has been a difficult road, yet she has continued to live her life as Best she can. She is trying to get into a new and more appropriate living situation, in an assisted living facility. Her monthly income falls below the rate she will need to afford it, ( by at least $700/ month) yet it is too high for her to qualify for programs through the county. Thus, she is relying on the generosity of friends and strangers, to help meet her financial needs. Please donate whatever you can so she can live a life of dignity in a safe and caring environment.
Thank you!
May 18, 2014
It has been over 7 years since Risa's accident. Unfortunately, her life has been very difficult, and her health, a constant problem. She had to quit teaching several years ago, and has spent time in both assisted living and nursing home facilities, and has had several surgeries. Her financial situation has gotten very bad, and she has many medical and dental needs, as well as medications that are no longer covered by her insurance. Despite all of the pain she endures and these difficulties, she continues to have a strong will to live and be here for her son, and is always appreciative of all of her blessings.
Risa recently had to have very costly (even at dentist's discounted rate) dental work, and her van is getting very worn out. She will not have the money or means to replace it unless money is raised. Please donate if you can. It will make a huge difference in Risa's life.
Guestbook
April 19, 2008
I love you Mrs. Pyles!
Dani Banda, Broookeville, MD
February 5, 2008
We are glad you are back teaching. The kids need you.
Katie, Brian and David Shapiro
November 18, 2007
We love you Risa and you are in our thoughts and prayers every day!
The McEwens, Olney, MD
