We've been researching wheelchair vans because it's definitely time to get one. During our research we found out we could rent a wheelchair van. It had been 1.5 years since we've been to NJ, so we took a trip last weekend. We couldn't have done it without the van. It was great. We saw my parents' new house and even escaped for a dinner date. Jim's brother also made it up to see us.
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| Oma and Seamus |
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| Eve and Scott |
As for the van, I'm making progress. We've decided what kind of van we want (and don't want). We don't want the fanciest conversion. The most expensive conversion (roughly 22K) involves and automatic ramp that either folds out or slides out from underneath the floor. The whole van then kneels to reduce the angle of the ramp. Fancy, but totally unnecessary for us. Eve will never have to push her self up the ramp, so there is no need for those features. More importantly, those features are something that will break and then we'll be up the proverbial creek since the dealer that we will purchase from is 2.5 hours away. I say will because even our rental had problems with the ramp and kneeling. No thank you. So the van that we are planning to get is called a Braun Companion Van. This is a side entry van with a manual ramp. It suits us perfectly. I'm now working on funding. I think it's going to work pretty well. Without getting into too many details, we will apply for a low interest loan through Easter Seals (specifically for wheelchair van purchases). Then we will pursue funding from the Knights of Columbus and the Catastrophic Illness in Children Fund. Between that and the sale of my CRV, we should have the van nearly paid for (if not totally paid for). This is exciting. Ever since last weekend, I've been dreaming of the new van. I keep thinking how much easier life will be. It was like tasting the forbidden fruit! I didn't know it existed, and now I can't imagine living without it.
1 comment:
Wow - this is going to change your lives. I am so glad that you will be able to purchase one, and even more pleased that there are so many ways to assist you with cost of it. Also, how fabulous for Eve's procedure to go well - marvelous stuff! If you need any assistance as you trundle up to Beantown next month, let us know. You guys could break the journey and stay here for a night if you are able. I will be working, and Kevin works Wed-Fri, and sometimes Britt is around (I never know when), but if you want to break your journey - you are very, very welcome. We'll make it work! loads of love, me xoxoxo
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