Friend Creates Fundraiser To Raise Money For Wheelchair-Accessible Van

One Tulsa family didn’t want to ask for help—even though their van was falling apart.

But a friend noticed everything they did for others and wanted to do something to help.

Nothing can stop Sean Lewis.

"I believe we can all do whatever we want to do,” Lewis said.

Lewis lives with Cerebral Palsy. He uses a wheelchair to get around.

"We just have different challenges than some people, but we all got challenges, and we all deserve to have a good quality life that makes us happy and brings us joy,” Lewis said.

One of his favorite activities is sharing inspirational messages on his podcast.

Many revolve around his mantra: "Sometimes you just have to find another way."

Although he lives by this motto, one thing has gotten in Lewis’ and his mom, Kyle Miller’s, way.

"I just want a new van,” Lewis said. An easy way to get around because our van is so old."

The van barely works--it no longer has AC or heat, and sometimes it doesn't even start, but Lewis and his mom manage.

“We are not that kind of people,” Lewis said. “We don't put our stuff out there because we figure, you know what, everybody's got stuff."

But a good friend, Rachel Merton, wanted to help.

"I really felt strongly called to do something more,” Merton said.

Merton created a fundraiser, and in just twelve days, people have donated $23,000-- a third of their goal.

"They don't have to do this,” Miller said, “We don't want anyone feeling sorry for us. We don't feel sorry for ourselves; we are just in a situation where we just can't see a way to do for ourselves right now, but the response from everybody has been overwhelming."

"It just touches me that people would care enough to positively put themselves in our situation," Lewis said.

If you’re interested in supporting this cause, donate here.