Joshua Cumby

To know Josh is truly to love Josh. I have loved him even before he was born, praying for his life, his healing, and his future. Over these 16 years, Josh has faced challenges most people never encounter in a lifetime… forty-nine surgeries, countless hospital stays, and daily obstacles that test his strength in ways that are hard to put into words.

And yet, through it all, Josh’s faith, courage, and joy continue to shine. Every day he faces battles that still need prayer and healing, and every day he keeps trying. As his mom, I see the parts no one else sees… how much effort it takes him just to do the simplest things, how hard he works, and how deeply he longs for more independence!

One tangible step we can take, with your help, is making key parts of our home accessible for Josh, beginning with his bathroom, his bedroom, and a safe ramp to our front porch.

Our Most Urgent Need

Right now, Josh cannot safely use our bathroom on his own. The doorway is not wide enough for his wheelchair. He cannot reach the sink to brush his teeth or wash his hands. He is unable to learn to use a roll-in shower that would allow him greater independence.

I currently have to carry Josh into the bathroom every time he needs to go. I do it with all my love, but it is physically exhausting and a constant reminder of how much help he needs for the most basic, everyday tasks most people never think twice about. We long for the day when Josh can enter the bathroom safely on his own and begin to experience the independence and dignity he deserves.

Brushing his teeth, washing his hands, taking a shower… simple moments many take for granted have become real challenges for Josh. Even here, he gives everything he has, even when it is exhausting and takes far more time and effort than it should.

In addition to the bathroom, Josh’s bedroom also needs to be made accessible. His next wheelchair will be larger, requiring the doorway to be widened. Because of medical equipment and the current layout, Josh cannot access his closet, dresser, or essential medical and personal care items. Many important things remain out of reach, requiring constant help with tasks he wants so badly to do on his own. Modifying his room would give Josh greater freedom and independence in his daily life.

We also hope to add a concrete ramp to our front porch to make entering and leaving our home safe and accessible. This change would allow Josh to come and go without fear or reliance on careful assistance, giving him confidence and freedom in his own home.

We are deeply thankful for every prayer lifted for Josh and our family… for meals shared, encouraging words spoken, and the many ways you have loved and supported us over the years. Through your prayers and kindness, God has carried us through so much.

Since Josh was little, I have dreamed of a fully accessible home for him, a place where he would not have to struggle or need help with every small task. After a season of financial strain and my husband being without work for over a year, that dream feels very far away. For now, these bathroom and bedroom modifications, along with the front porch ramp, are the first steps toward giving Josh more independence and dignity.

If you feel led to pray, share, or support this journey in any way, we would be so very grateful. Above all, we trust God to guide every step and to provide through His people’s kindness.

Thank you for loving Josh and our family, for praying for him and for us, and for standing with us through this journey. Your kindness means more than words can say, and we are grateful beyond measure.