In Honor of

Derrick Hughes

Belleville, IL

Rising Strong: A Journey of Independence and Hope

Five years ago, a car accident changed my life forever. I was left a quadriplegic, spending a year and a half in the hospital. I was on a ventilator for six months, and on oxygen for a year. For a long time, I couldn’t move anything — but I never gave up.

Last year, I underwent a nerve transplant that has given me a new chance at recovery. At first, my right arm was stuck in my armpit. Now, it’s completely straight, and I have great range of motion. While I still can’t use my fingers, this progress is proof that change is possible.

I attend Paraquad a few times a week, where I work one-on-one with physical therapists to rebuild my strength. However, the cost of these sessions — $85 an hour — is more than I can afford. Without this critical therapy, my progress slows down, and my dream of living independently becomes more distant.

None of this would be possible without God’s grace. It’s through His strength that I continue to push forward every day, finding hope and courage in the most difficult times.

But my journey isn’t just about me — it’s about my daughter. I’m raising an eight-year-old girl, and while I’m so grateful for the support of my parents, I know I won’t be able to rely on them forever. My goal is to live independently — not only for myself but to ensure my daughter has the care she needs long term.

That’s where Help Hope Live, a non-profit organization, comes in. They are helping me organize fundraisers to support my goal of independent living. With their help, I can continue my physical therapy, secure the medical equipment I need, and build the future I’ve always dreamed of.

Your donation will make a real difference in my ability to live independently, care for my daughter, and continue the progress I’ve worked so hard for. Thank you for supporting me in this journey — your generosity is truly changing my life, and I am deeply grateful for your prayers and support.

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