The Gardiner family of Ellijay, Georgia, welcomed a new chapter of independence and joy with the delivery of their brand-new accessible vehicle on July 26th, made possible through Jett Foundation’s Accessible Vehicle Fund. Surrounded by loved ones, the family celebrated a milestone that will forever change their daily lives.
For Lauren Frazier, a single mom to five children, caring for her 14-year-old son, Luke, who lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, has always been a labor of love. But as Luke has grown into a teenager, meeting his needs has become increasingly challenging.
“As he’s grown into a teenager, he’s now about my size, and helping him transfer – whether it’s getting in and out of bed, the car, or his wheelchair – has become incredibly difficult,” Lauren shared. “I’m doing my best to meet all his needs, but physically, it’s getting harder every day. Any support makes a meaningful difference for both of us.”
With the arrival of their accessible van, everyday life for the Gardiners is already transforming. No longer will simple outings require exhausting workarounds or costly solutions, like renting a trailer to transport Luke’s wheelchair. Instead, they can focus on being together and enjoying life’s moments.
“This van is truly going to change my life by giving us back a sense of independence and normalcy,” Lauren said. “Having a van that’s accessible and built for Luke’s needs will take away so much stress and allow us to focus on making memories instead.”
Among the memories they are most looking forward to? Trips to church, family dinners, and even camping adventures – things that once felt out of reach but now are within their grasp.
For families still working toward their fundraising goals, Lauren offers a reminder to keep the faith: “Miracles happen every day, don’t give up!” She also expressed deep gratitude for the Duchenne community: “To the Duchenne community: thank you from the bottom of my heart. Being part of this group reminds me that we’re not alone in this journey. Your strength, support, and understanding mean the world to families like mine. Watching how you lift each other up through the hardest moments gives me hope, courage, and a sense of belonging.”
The team at Jett Foundation can’t wait to see the countless memories made through greater independence and freedom for Luke and his family.
The Accessible Vehicle Fund is a branch of Jett Foundation’s Jett Giving Fund program and helped transform the lives of countless families across the country since its inaugural cycle in 2017, gifting over $5.5 million worth of accessible vehicles, small medical equipment, and emergency assistance thanks to the generous support of individual donors, local communities, and major sponsors including Cure Dale’s Duchenne, The Flatley Foundation, Sarepta Therapeutics, Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, Finn’s Friends, ITF Therapeutics, Kindness Over Muscular Dystrophy, The Killian Family, Michael’s Cause, Robert E. & Marie Orr Smith Foundation, and Ryan’s Quest.
You can assist families impacted by Duchenne through the Accessible Vehicle Fund, Emergency Fund, and Equipment Assistance Fund by donating today or reaching out to Maura Carroll, Director of Development, at [email protected] to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.If you or someone you know is in need of support or would like more information on our Jett Giving Fund, please visit www.jettfoundation.org/giving-fund.
