Success Story

Your donation will help us make a significant difference in the lives of more children like River.

River is a spirited 4-year-old living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Despite his condition, River’s joy and enthusiasm for life are boundless. However, his mobility was severely limited by an ill-fitting wheelchair, causing discomfort and back pain. His mother, Dee, struggled to get him around, as their insurance denied coverage for a specialized wheelchair, citing a lack of medical necessity. The out-of-pocket cost for the wheelchair he needed ranged from $6,000 to $7,000, an unaffordable expense for their family.

Desperate for a solution, Dee turned to her father, who recommended Project MEND as a potential resource. With hope and determination, Dee reached out to Project MEND.

Project MEND was able to provide River with a wheelchair that fits him perfectly, with just a bit of room to grow. The new chair not only met his needs but was also easy to transport. The smile on River’s face when he was first placed in his new chair was unforgettable. "It's like the chair was made for him," Dee said. "Thanks isn't enough."

Dee fondly describes her son as "4 going on 44," capturing his wisdom and resilience far beyond his years. With his new wheelchair, River can move comfortably and continue to spread joy wherever he goes. Last time River visited us he gleefully cheered loudly “Project MEND makes me strong!”

River's story highlights the critical impact of Project MEND in providing essential mobility equipment to those in need. It underscores the importance of community support and resources that ensure everyone can live life to the fullest.