Fundraising for an Accessible Van

DJ Kimble is 41 years old and lives in West Virginia. He was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness, at the age of two. “It has taken away just about every ability I have ever had, including my ability to breathe, take care of myself in any way, and it has affected my ability to communicate normally. The one thing, though, that Duchenne will never get is my joy for life,” says DJ.

He lives at home with his mom Susan, dad Dannie, and nephew Broty. His brother Donnie and sister Kari also live nearby. “For me, family is the most important thing there is in life. My family members are the most supportive individuals that I could have ever asked for, and if it wasn’t for each and every one of them, I would not be the strong-willed person that I am today,” said DJ.

For DJ, his mom is his rock, and his primary caregiver. “My mom has been there with me for the great, the bad, and all the ugly moments in my lifelong journey with Duchenne. My mom isn’t just my mom, she is much more than that.”

DJ has spent his entire life living in West Virginia. “Like our state motto says, it truly is almost heaven,” added DJ. He enjoys exploring West Virginia from the mountains to the rivers. He also enjoys attending community events such as fairs, festivals, and motorsport events. One of his absolute favorite things to do is visit his family in Maryland.

“Unfortunately, with losing most of my physical abilities to Duchenne and not having safe and reliable transportation, I haven’t really been able to do any of these things that I speak of as much as I would like,” said DJ. “We need reliable transportation in order for me to go anywhere, including crucial doctor’s appointments, which I have had to miss for several years now.”

DJ has applied to the Accessible Vehicle Fund because he has spent ten years trying to find help getting safe transportation. The Accessible Vehicle Fund is one of two branches of support offered through the Jett Giving Fund; Jett Foundation partners with families impacted by Duchenne to raise the necessary funds to obtain this essential and vital item.

“I would like to ask for your support to make my dream of having safe and reliable transportation come true. I know how hard it is just to have enough to get by, believe me. So, even if you’re not able to donate, please know that it means just as much to me that you took the time to read my story, and if it’s not too much trouble, all I ask is that you also share my story,” added DJ.

Jett Foundation was able to partner with another advocacy organization in order to streamline DJ’s fundraising and deliver his van without any delay.