27/10/2024
I’ve always believed that food, especially BBQ, brings people together.
That has never felt more true than today, when Chair Force 1 Foundation delivered a wheelchair-accessible van for my dad. This van will help him maintain the mobility and independence that ALS has been so quick to take away from him. Their generosity and dedication are unmatched, and I am endlessly grateful for what they do for families like ours. Their impact speaks volumes—this video explains it better than I ever could: https://vimeo.com/987297569/d0b566bcbf.
This connection wouldn’t have happened without BBQ. About a month after my dad was diagnosed with ALS, Mark, the owner of our favorite vending spot The Common Beer Company, called about an event at Sonder Brewing that was supporting a local ALS charity.
That’s where I met the Chair Force 1 team. I learned about their story and mission, and I shared my dad’s diagnosis and journey with ALS. At the time, a wheelchair van wasn’t even on my radar. But a few months later, when the doctor said it was time to order a power wheelchair, I realized a van would be needed sooner than expected. I reached out to Ben from CF1 for any tips or guidance, and he responded right away, saying, “It might take some time, but I think we can help.” Just a few weeks later, CF1 had raised enough funds to add a new van to their fleet. While I was on my way to pick up my dad for his wheelchair fitting, I got the call that Chair Force 1 would be providing him with a wheelchair-accessible van.
Please visit https://www.chairforce1foundation.com to learn more and consider donating to support their work.