Candita (Candi) Gillespie Turner

Help Me Obtain a Wheelchair-Accessible Van

My name is Candita (Candi) Gillespie Turner, and I am reaching out to ask for your support in helping me obtain a wheelchair-accessible van. Reliable, accessible transportation would make a tremendous difference in my ability to manage everyday needs, spend time with my family, and continue serving my community.

In 1986, at just 15 years old, I was involved in a serious car accident that caused a spinal cord injury at the C4, C5, C6, and C7 levels, resulting in incomplete quadriplegia. For many years following my injury, I was able to walk with the assistance of a walker. As my mobility has changed over time, I now rely on a wheelchair.

My injury changed the course of my life, but it did not stop me from building a life centered on family, purpose, and service. I raised three children, now ages 36, 28, and 27, and I am blessed with six grandchildren. Being present for my family and sharing in the important moments of their lives means more to me than I can express.

That same sense of purpose has led me to dedicate much of my time to serving my community. I am the President of the George Clem Multicultural Alliance (GCMA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and the George Clem Center Steering Committee, a subcommittee of GCMA. Our work focuses on preserving our community’s history, bringing people together, and creating opportunities for future generations. These responsibilities require me to attend meetings, work with community leaders, and participate in programs and events throughout the community.

As I continue to remain active in both my family and community, transportation has become one of my greatest challenges. Because I use a wheelchair, I need a vehicle that can safely accommodate my mobility needs. Without accessible transportation of my own, I often depend on family members or others to get to appointments, attend meetings and community events, visit loved ones, and handle everyday responsibilities. Even a simple trip can depend on whether someone else is available to help.

That is why I am asking for your support in helping me obtain a wheelchair-accessible van.

Every contribution, no matter the amount, will bring me closer to having safe, reliable transportation that meets my needs. With an accessible van, I would be better able to manage appointments and daily responsibilities, remain involved with my children and grandchildren, and fulfill my commitments to GCMA and the George Clem Center.

Since my accident more than four decades ago, I have continued to adapt and move forward through each stage of my life. I have built a family I am incredibly proud of and found purpose in giving back to the community that means so much to me. I want to continue being present, active, and able to contribute for many years to come.

If you are able to make a donation toward my wheelchair-accessible van, I would be deeply grateful. If you are unable to contribute financially, sharing my story with others who may be willing to help would also mean a great deal to me.

For me, this van is more than a vehicle. It is a way to stay connected—to my family, my community, and the life I have worked so hard to build.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and consider supporting me. Your donation or willingness to share my story will help bring me closer to having the transportation I need to continue moving forward.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Candita Turner

For more information, please contact Help Hope Live at 800-642-8399.

Thank you for your support!