Erin Baker

My name is Erin. I’m fundraising for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle equipped with an AEVIT driving system and appropriate hand controls, as well as a wheelchair. These aren’t luxuries—they’re essential for getting to medical appointments, leaving home more safely, and building a more independent life.

I live with hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), a rare, progressive neurological condition that affects my movement, and severe dystonia, which causes painful, uncontrollable muscle contractions. My feet can twist inward or backward, sometimes at a 90-degree angle, and spasms can last for hours. During and after an episode, I may be unable to walk or bear weight.

I also have lifelong gait instability and can fall suddenly. Hand tremors make walking aids difficult and potentially unsafe to use. Severe, progressively worsening back pain adds to these challenges: activity can trigger intense flares, and my symptoms vary from day to day. Without a wheelchair, I often have to limit outings to times when my pain and dystonia are more manageable. Sometimes I rely on walls for support.

Driving has become increasingly difficult, too. Dystonia affects my hands, arms, legs, and feet. Stop-and-go traffic can trigger prolonged cramping, making it difficult and potentially unsafe to control a vehicle. My symptoms have progressed since 2022, and I need transportation and driving equipment suited to my needs. An AEVIT system with appropriate hand controls could help me drive while reducing reliance on movements that trigger or worsen my symptoms.

I’ve been without a wheelchair because of a prolonged insurance dispute. I’m unable to work and do not receive SSI or SSDI. My last workday was in 2003. After I was seriously injured in a fall in 2004, I was told I could not work again. Nelnet determined in 2013 that I was totally and permanently disabled, but I have continued to face denials from Social Security. As a result, I don’t have the income to arrange accessible transportation and mobility equipment on my own.

This need is also deeply personal. I’m trying to leave a controlling and emotionally abusive marriage, but without independent transportation or income, taking steps toward safety has been extremely difficult. My doctors have encouraged me to seek help, yet accessible shelter and transportation remain significant barriers. Having a vehicle in my name that is equipped for my disability would help me reach medical care and work toward a safer, more independent future.

What your support can help fund:

• A wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Depending on the make, model, condition, and modifications needed, a van can cost $75,000–$100,000 or more.

• A driving evaluation and lessons at Brant’s Driving School

• An AEVIT driving system and appropriate hand controls

• A wheelchair and related mobility needs

• Other eligible medical and transportation expenses connected to my care and independence

I’m fundraising through Help Hope Live. Donations will support eligible medical and related expenses through its fundraising program. Please refer to Help Hope Live for details about how contributions are handled and whether they may be tax-deductible.

I can’t manage these costs on my own. Every donation or share brings me closer to mobility, medical access, and greater independence. Thank you for reading my story and for helping in whatever way you can.

For questions or to verify expenses, contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399.