Along with unexpected emotional and social challenges, families at our seating clinic face significant financial burdens. Many arrive expecting insurance to meet all their child’s equipment needs, but insurance typically only covers one wheelchair every 3–5 years. These wheelchairs, especially power models, are often heavy, bulky, and difficult or impossible to transport.

Imagine a single parent needing to make a quick trip for groceries late at night. For parents of children with special needs, this means a grueling process of disassembling and loading a 50-pound wheelchair, positioning their child, running the errand, and repeating everything in reverse—a simple trip that can take 45 minutes. Access to a lightweight medical stroller as a backup makes trips much easier and improves daily life.

The JDJ Foundation has played a key role in funding lightweight wheelchairs and strollers for families when insurance falls short. Their support breaks down barriers, making it possible for kids to join family outings, like attending a sibling’s soccer game.

This year, JDJ announced a $63,300 grant to launch our first JDJ Foundation Loaner Closet, allowing families to borrow strollers, walkers, or cushions while awaiting insurance equipment or needing something lighter for travel. We’re grateful for this new program and for the JDJ Foundation’s commitment to improving access and quality of life for our families.

Above is a photo of Skyla, an 8-year-old who’s been visiting our clinic for years. Her family travels three hours each way for care. When Skyla’s mom shared how difficult it was managing heavy equipment, the JDJ Foundation funded a lightweight stroller, allowing Skyla to not only get around more easily, but also attend her parents’ wedding in Puerto Rico.