Kristy Johnson

I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), neurological issues from a traumatic brain injury, and suspected Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. This basically means that my body is super fragile, reactive, and painful.

EDS causes the dislocation, subluxation, and degeneration of joints and tissues.

Mast Cell causes allergic reactions to otherwise benign stimuli.

The neurological issues trigger migraines in the wrong light, make me super sensitive to high pitched noises, and cause my body interpret even mild vibration (think: a train a half mile away) as something utterly painful.

Two years ago, the pain got so bad, I thought I wouldn’t be able to drive anymore.

Going from running the Boston Marathon 7 years ago to being unable to drive because my joints will pop out and ache was a harsh reality check.

I gave my car to my younger brother, and decided to see if there was a car out there gentle enough, and non vibratey enough, for me to drive!

I found my answer in a new van!!!

After multiple test drives, I leased a Kia Carnival, and it gave me so much of life back!

The size helped it to muffle bumps.

It being new meant that there was nothing loose, and the engine wasn’t shaky.

It was also a safe, allergy-free space for me to recover from allergic reactions, or to rest from chronic fatigue (some of my friends took the seats out and helped me set up a twin bed in the back!)

I had to get rid of my van for various reasons, and the cost of getting one that will fit my needs, is double what it was even a year ago! I can’t afford it.

Help Hope Live offered to partner with me, so that I can get a new van, without worrying about the cost (as a disabled teacher working part time, this is huge gift for me).

My geneticist and primary care doctor BOTH agreed that this van is medically necessary, and completed the required documentation attesting to this.

Be advised me that the organization takes 3% off all funds raised, and credit cards charge 2.65%.

Any help that you are willing and able to give is MUCH appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to listen to my story.

God bless!

Kristy has chosen to fundraise through 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 (5.65% of all funds raised goes to credit card and administrative fees).

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!