This fundraiser is not for myself. This is in an attempt to help someone and possibly enable them the ability to post independently. After losing her vision unexpected and quickly, it seems as learning how to simply live has all been reset and much much more difficult this time.
**Introduction:**
Life can present many unexpected challenges, and for Jennifer, that challenge is blindness. Despite this challenge, Jennifer approaches each day with incredible strength, resilience, and a positive spirit. She is a loving mother, a best friend to several, always lighting up the room no matter how dark it is. Jennifer is Beautiful, both inside and out.
Now, we have an opportunity to come together and help Jennifer overcome some of the obstacles her blindness presents and empower her to live a fuller, more independent life.
**Jennifer’s Story:**
It was 1998, Jennifer was only 13 years old. Unexpectedly, she became extremely sick, vomiting uncontrollably and deathly weak. A few days went by and a 911 call for an ambulance saved her life. She was quickly diagnosed as being a Type 1, Juvenile Diabetic. She had just nearly died, so weak she could barely move, yet the first thing she did when I saw her…. was SMILE..
Fast forward, twenty something years later. Multiple insulin injections every day, innumerable times having a cold, the flu and pneumonia. Multiple injuries and surgeries, all the result of being Type 1, Juvenile Diabetic. No matter the current diagnosis or risk of surgery, she remains confident. Comforted knowing that God will always be there, watching over her.
Diabetes never took control. She graduated high school, had her daughter Riley, and completed Cosmology / Hair school at the prestigious Paul Mitchell Hair Academy in Sacramento, California.
Shortly after hair school, As if all of this was not already more than anyone should incur, she began to have “Dark, blurry spots” in her vision. Her entire life, she had better than perfect vision, 20/10. Within a matter of a few months, without warning, diabetic retinopathy completely detached the retina in both of her eyes. Her surgeon was the top ophthalmologist surgeon in the United States. Her vision could not be saved. He was however able to save her eyes for physical looks. This blindness usually results in the eyes withering up and dying.
The most traumatic hospitalization and surgery of them all. Lying there in recovery, barely becoming conscious after her surgeries on both eyes and yet the first thing she did when I saw her…And immediately when she heard my voice, was SMILE..
Simple tasks that once were effortless, like reading a book to her daughter or navigating the grocery store, have became major hurdles. Despite this, She is determined to maintain her independence and continue pursuing her passion for bring a Mom and staying confident that she will be able to work, and be a productive part of this world.
**The Need:**
* **Assistive Technology:**
She needs to have a newer iPhone. Apple’s assistant SIRI and the phones Accessibility features allow her to check emails, search the Internet and is one of the few independent connections to this world.
* **Guide Dog:**
A trained guide dog would provide her with invaluable independence and companionship. The cost of training and caring for a guide dog is far beyond the means allowed by Disability.
* **Orientation and Mobility Training:**
She needs specialized training to navigate safely and confidently in her environment. This training costs will teach her essential skills like using a walking cane and understanding accessible routes.
**Home Modifications:**
Her home needs modifications to make it safer and more accessible, such as installing grab bars in the bathroom, improving lighting, labeling appliances in Braille. These modifications vary in cost but are necessary.
* **Education/Training:**
She is determined to pursue education and learn a new skill to improve her employment prospects.
**How You Can Help:**
Your generous contribution, no matter the size, will make a significant difference in Jennifer’s life. Here’s how you can help:
**Donate:** Every dollar brings us closer to our goal of her gaining confidence and independence. You can donate securely through this page.
**Share:** Please share this fundraiser with your friends, family, and social networks. The more people who know about Jennifer’s story, the closer we’ll get to reaching her goal.
* **Offer Support:** If you would like to offer any other type of support, please contact Jennifer @
[email redacted]
* **Send a Message:** Leave a message of encouragement for Jennifer and others on the “Comments” section of this page. Your words of support will mean the world to her
**Closing:**
Thank you for taking the time to read Jennifer’s story and consider supporting her. Your kindness and generosity will empower her to overcome challenges, achieve her goals, and live a brighter, more independent future. Together, we can make a real difference!
