Derek Schroeder

Family and friends of Derek Schroeder are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with Catastrophic Injury. Derek 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!

In August 2014, Derek’s life took an unexpected turn when a diving accident left him paralyzed (as a quadriplegic with limited arm and hand function). Since then, he has been unable to drive, relying solely on friends, family, and public transportation to navigate daily life. While grateful for this support, the lack of personal mobility has significantly limited his independence. An adaptive wheelchair van would be a transformative gift for Derek, granting him the freedom to manage errands, attend appointments, and engage with his community without depending on others.

Such a vehicle, equipped with necessary modifications like hand controls, ramps, and secure locking mechanisms for his wheelchair, would empower Derek to reclaim autonomy over his life. However, the cost of these specialized vehicles is substantial, often exceeding $50,000, a financial burden that is challenging to meet without assistance. While some programs offer partial funding, they rarely cover the full expense, leaving individuals like Derek to bridge the significant gap. By contributing to this fundraiser, you’re not just helping to purchase a van; you’re investing in Derek’s independence, dignity, and quality of life. Your generosity will enable him to pursue opportunities, strengthen social connections, and live a more fulfilling life. Please consider making a donation to help Derek regain his independence.

Every contribution brings us closer to reaching this goal and making a profound difference in his life. Derek is a graduate of Northeast Community high school in Goose Lake, Iowa and also of Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He played football, basketball, track and field, and baseball in high school and then went on to play football at Coe. He is a lifelong fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Bears, Cubs, Bulls and Blackhawks. and of course the Rebels and Kohawks. Derek is also the proud father of 16-year-old Jack and proud uncle of 5 nephews and one niece. With this van he will be able to spend more time with family.

Other goals of his are to be more active with adaptive sports and also advocating for improvements to the current Iowa Medicaid program. Currently, there is a very small income limit on Medicaid for employed people with disabilities that makes it impossible to save enough for a new vehicle or a house.