On August 8, the Kendall family celebrated a meaningful milestone after receiving a new accessible van. For the Kendall family, something as routine as getting from one place to another had become one of their biggest daily challenges. Thanks to Jett Foundation’s Accessible Vehicle Fund, that challenge is finally easing, giving the family greater independence and peace of mind.
Jason and Kandace Kendall’s ten-year-old son, Beckham, lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and was recently diagnosed with autism. Their world was turned upside down when Beckham lost the ability to walk. Although he uses a power wheelchair for everyday mobility, the family’s previous vehicle couldn’t accommodate it, forcing Beckham to use a manual chair whenever they traveled. This created major obstacles not only for Beckham, but also for Jason and Kandace.
Transporting Beckham to doctor’s appointments and therapy sessions became physically demanding, leading to repeated injuries. “It’s easy to describe the many trips we take for doctors as well as therapies but we believe it’s the small things that go unnoticed,” Jason said. “The appointments are always worth it because of his doctors and treatments, however we have had to skip out on other trips like family reunions and restaurants due to the amount of work it takes without an accessible van.”
Through the support of generous donors and the determination of the Kendall family, Beckham is no longer limited by transportation barriers and can enjoy the more accessible life he deserves. With their new accessible van, the Kendall family can look forward to traveling together more often and pursuing dreams like Beckham’s wish to see New York City.
The Kendall family reflected on the struggles they have experienced over the years, including moments of isolation and exhaustion. Despite these challenges they encourage others members of the Duchenne community to keep moving forward and not lose hope. “Do not stop. The road seems long but it is so worth it,” Jason says. “You are not alone.”
Congratulations, Beckham! We are so happy for you and can’t wait to see all the amazing new places you’ll go!
The Accessible Vehicle Fund is a branch of Jett Foundation’s Jett Giving Fund program and has helped transform the lives of countless families across the country since its inaugural cycle in 2017, gifting over $7.5 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, ITF Therapeutics , Sarepta Therapeutics , Austin’s Hope , Catalyst Pharmaceuticals , Finn’s Friends , Kindness Over Muscular Dystrophy , The Killian Family, Michael’s Cause, Permobil, Robert E. & Marie Orr Smith Foundation, Numotion, 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.