You might be wondering just who I am, why you should care and why you should even consider donating to my cause. My name is Sean Smith, I am twenty five years old and I have a story.
I was born with a disability called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a brittle bone disorder that causes my bones to be in a weaker, more fragile state, as well as being shorter in stature and other skeletal related issues. I also suffer from severe scoliosis, restrictive lung disease, asthma and sleep apnea. I have been wheelchair bound my entire life, and will be for the rest of its duration.
To date, I have had well over 70 bone fractures and 4 major operations (including the placing of titanium rods through both of my femurs). My medical ailments have caused many hospitalizations, including two times where I was declared legally dead without brain or heart activity.
I have reached a point in my life now, where I need the help of others in order to be independent, successful and safe.
I have been without a handicap accessible van for going on five years. Without a van, I have been nearly home-bound and extremely limited in my overall life. I am unable to go outside of my city limits (For now, I must rely on a local public transit) and I have missed countless opportunities, both professionally and personally. I have also been unable to receive new medical treatments at a facility that I would have to drive to and am unable to attend college classes due to the unpredictability of the public transit system.
This has been, debilitating - and I have tried in the past to raise funds for this cause, and though somewhat successful, was never enough. I do work, and I make money, but it is not enough, and not nearly close to my goal. I don't beg, and I don't want pity, just the chance to be out there and living a full, enriched, and safe life.
I am calling on your help
Help me raise funds to get this handicap accessible van. With your help, my entire world can change.
If you want to help – please consider donating, or sharing this fundraiser on your Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIN, or anywhere. I thank you so much.
Sincerely,
Sean Smith