Dawn Bricker

June 4, 2006: Dawn’s world would be forever changed. The pontoon boat she and her husband were riding in collided with another pontoon, leaving her paralyzed, initially from the neck down. She had broken her neck at C5, and ruptured the discs at C4-C6. The doctors who evaluated her did not expect much improvement. As a mother of two children and a substitute teacher, Dawn had always been on the giving side. Now she was left to rely totally on the support of others. Dawn spent seven weeks in the hospital/rehabilitation center beginning her recovery process.

Since that time, she has been pursuing a rigorous course of therapies aimed at recovery. Her progress has been slow, but notable. When she came home from the hospital she was in a power wheelchair with lateral supports and a headrest. Since then Dawn has gained enough strength to use a manual wheelchair with no supports. Although she has not regained the use of her hands, she continues to show improvement throughout her body, including touch sensation to her toes.

Dawn’s spirit and determination remain intact; however the cost of uninsured recovery-based therapies, equipment, and transportation is staggering. This life-changing event brings with it a substantial financial burden. Even with insurance, Dawn’s family has already incurred substantial financial costs. First year expenses for quadriplegics average $470,833 (Source: The University of Alabama at Birmingham National Spinal Injury Statistical Center).

To help with these uninsured expenses a fundraising campaign has been established in Dawn’s honor with HelpHOPELive. Please help her make the dream of returning to an active physical life come true by contributing to HelpHOPELive in Dawn’s honor. All contributions are administered by HelpHOPELive exclusively for injury-related expenses. Your tax-deductible contribution will assist Dawn with her recovery.

It is never easy to ask for help and now is certainly no exception. Dawn has touched the lives of many and we deeply appreciate the support she has received. At times like this, the assistance of family, friends and the community is crucial to help ensure a positive outcome. Your continued love and support will empower Dawn in her challenging journey towards recovery. In 2009 we opened a nonprofit foundation for people suffering from paralysis. Please visit www.racetowalk.org for more information.

With Sincerity and Gratitude, We Thank You for Your Support.
– The Bricker Family

To make a tax-deductible contribution to Dawn’s fund by check or credit card see instructions below.

By Check
Payable to: HelpHOPELive
Memo section must include: In Honor of Dawn Bricker
Mail To: HelpHOPELive
Two Radnor Corporate Center
100 Matsonford Rd., Ste. 100
Radnor, PA 19087
By Credit Card:
Click the “Donate Now” button above.