Meet Wendell

In this world of advanced modern medicine and incredibly nuanced technologies, one would think we would know everything about the human body, right?  But with our social, smiley and carefree Wendell this is not the case.  Here's our story:

We are the Sherman-Strand family. When Wendell was over 6 months old he still was not holding his head up.  This lead to a tsunami of visits with specialists and procedures and tests of every scope and scale.  Throughout these 16 months, everything has come back negative.  He has no diagnosis or real prognosis of his condition, with the exception of “hypotonia” or muscle weakness - a very generic symptom.  Meanwhile Wendell continues to have major physical delays, not being able to sit up on his own, crawl, stand or speak.  

Wendell is now making the transition to a mobility device.  It is a hybrid between a stroller and wheelchair; it is easy to transport yet has the security features to ride in a wheelchair accessible vehicle.

Which brings us to our great need: a way of transporting Wendell and the rest of us.  Helping our family purchase a full size van gives us the ability to get around with our children, while the "full size" component allows us to continue our passion for camping (now becoming more about car camping and shorter trails), traveling and exploring the outdoors.

Transportation is critical in today's world, and by helping our family to get around you in turn help the community at large.  We are busy creating art and growing good food for ourselves and others, raising honeybees and assisting in the Sunday School programs at our church.  We make wine and bread and share them with those around us. We camp and hike and pass along our enthusiasm for nature to others.  By helping us you help nurture and spread joy to our community, which in turn carries through to other people like a ripple effect. Throughout this whole journey we have found that it does "take a village to raise a child".  

The Scoop

Basic Costs

Between the van itself (the major bulk at $50K), Indiegogo's cut, and basic production costs, we're asking for $55,000 to cover our expenses.

If we raise over this amount we will put the excess money in a fund for Wendell's future and inevitable needs (modifications to our home, equipment that will help him in home therapy that is not covered by insurance, etc).  Just think - this only means that 1100 people need to give $50!  That's so amazingly doable!!  We also would hope that years from now, we also will be able to “pay it forward” in some way, helping other families in situations such as our own.

If we do not meet our goal we would be delayed in acquiring the vehicle for an uncertain amount of time.  The money would stay in the account until we are able to raise enough funds.

What You Receive

Your wonderful generosity will not be left unrewarded.  By donating toward this cause, you can have access to a range of different perks from a super soft t-shirt to a beautiful fine art print to a handmade ceramic mug.  See the sidebar for details.

Other Ways You Can Help

Some people just can’t contribute at this time, which we definitely understand.  But money isn't the only way you can help!  Please pass this on to at least 20 of your friends and relatives, then ask them to do the same.  We would ask you to share Wendell’s story on Facebook, Twitter, and any other social media accounts you have.  You can also use the Indiegogo share tools to help spread the word.

We believe that people in this world want to help others, that people need community no matter their situation. Thank you for sharing Wendell’s story and for your generosity.

Please check out our website at wheelsforwendell.com