In February 2023, Nat received her accessible van. Since then, it has become far more than just transportation - it’s become a lifeline that supports her independence, travel, and medical care. Recently, Nat sent us an update on how life has changed since receiving her van, which she affectionately named “Carlisle” after her favorite Twilight character. We wanted to share her message directly with our community.

Nat writes, “So much has happened since we have received the van in February of 2023! What once felt like such a foreign concept has now easily become an integral part of our daily routine. I have been able to compete in 8 archery competitions across the country, taking the van to Georgia, and Alabama. I also was able to attend my first ever concert! My service dog Malikai loves to go on rides in the van with me whether it’s for fun or he will be working. Having the van allowed us to drive to South Carolina to see my neurosurgeon which allowed me to rest in my custom power chair on the drive there and back home after spine surgery as opposed to struggling with air travel. However with the ups comes the downs and 2025 was not an easy year to say the least as my health declined. It was determined I needed a rare multi-visceral transplant in order to survive. Thankfully there is a hospital that offers this type of transplant in our state just 5 hours from our home. Without the van I don't know how I could possibly begin to contemplate the possibility of a transplant due to the many appointments and testing required. Having "Carlisle"* will allow us to travel across our state for these appointments and tests while giving my body the security and comfortability it needs by allowing me to stay in my custom power chair. We cannot thank Chive Charities and our Donors enough for forever changing our lives!”

It’s amazing to see what a difference transportation can make! Nat’s journey continues to show just how life-changing accessible transportation can be. From traveling across the country for competitions to preparing for critical medical care closer to home, “Carlisle” has made it possible for Nat to keep moving forward. We’re incredibly grateful to our donors for making stories like Nat’s possible, and we look forward to seeing where the road takes Nat and “Carlisle” next.