Andrew could use his own Christmas miracle

Andrew has had a tough go and could use a miracle of his own this Christmas.

The 33-year-old suffered a spinal and traumatic brain injury due to an accident that left him unable to use his arms or legs.

He is highly mobile in his wheelchair, but the wheelchair requires use of a specially modified vehicle for transportation.

Andrew had a minivan that was designed specifically for this purpose. However, a few years ago, the vehicle became too old and unsafe to ride in anymore.

Being young, it is important Andrew get out into the community to socialize and attend college part-time, do errands and enjoy outdoor activities. That said, Andrew would benefit most from a new vehicle that is modified for a wheelchair. He has been saving bits of money here and there toward the cause, but he falls short due to his limited fixed income.

A new, modified vehicle “would be a life-changing miracle for him.”

Meantime, Andrew would love to be able to purchase some new art supplies including an easel, paints and paint brushes. This would keep him entertained during the times he is stuck at home. He could also benefit from some extra food, clothing, blankets, sheets and towels for the holiday season.

The Garden Island/Zonta Christmas Fund was established in the early 1980s to help people like Andrew during the holidays. Donations to the Christmas Fund are distributed by Zonta Club members, who purchase gift certificates at local stores to make wishes come true.

Each donated dollar is accounted for and recorded. There are no administrators collecting salaries. Volunteers run the show.

Anyone making a donation of $50 or more may have their picture presenting the check to Zonta published in TGI.

Only monetary donations are accepted. Checks payable to Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation can be mailed to P.O. Box 3032, Lihue, HI 96766. For more information, call Dimples Kano at 822-4517.

Real names are not used in these stories, but the situations described are real.