Article
I Never Shy Away From A Fight
Call For Action
Since my accident, The Drew Crew has been there for every step of my journey and accomplished unimaginable feats. Throughout high school and college, you made sure I had nursing care, technology, and therapy equipment, and I went after my dream of graduating from the University of Michigan. When our hundreds of thousands of votes weren’t enough to win a new van competition, you raised over $30,000 for me to put towards one. In 2020, when life was shut down, and we didn’t know what we would do to get through it, you gave to what became one of the largest can and bottle drives in the history of Michigan returnables. When people ask me what The Drew Crew is about, these are the type of triumphant, climactic, galvanizing events I try to convey to them. Right now, I need another historic Drew Crew moment.
Life for us with disabilities is under attack. Many insurances have straight-up stopped paying for private duty nursing. Legislations are changing and getting rid of current, well-funded programs. Meaning other state-run programs, like the one I receive currently, will become saturated and at high risk of being terminated. Leaving me with no care and no other option than the death sentence of living in a nursing home.
Every day I wake up, I’m giving everything I can to make walking again a reality—hours of physical therapy on the equipment you gave me. I’ve made leaps and bounds in sensation and movement. I am preparing for the day that a viable clinical trial takes a chance on me, to have a procedure that’ll push my recovery even further. I’m making videos educating everyone who has paralysis about how we’ve been able to make these accomplishments. I’m talking to families every day all over the world! Yet all of it could be for nothing if I lose the care I desperately need.
I’ve never been one to shy away from a fight, and I don’t plan to start now. So, what are we going to do about it? I’m canceling the helicopter ball drop at the golf outings and asking for a call to action from each of you to sign up and join our Donorbox reoccurring donation service. Whether it’s $3, $5, $20, or whatever amount your household can afford, and at whatever interval fits your budget. Reoccurring donations are what will change my life, solidify my future, and allow me to continue fighting for myself and others. You can sign up to give weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annually. Go to Donorbox.org/TheDrewCrew. I apologize in advance for the number of emails and communications, but this is what needs to happen for my life to continue. Tell your friends, family, and coworkers, and let’s see how much we can grow The Drew Crew.
I am beyond blessed and extremely grateful for the life I get to live every day. The opportunity I have and the impact I get to make in others' lives are genuinely unique and fill my spirit. I wouldn’t be who I am without you believing in me. Thank you so much. I love you. I can’t wait to see what we’re able to do together.