Mackenzie’s story is one of resilience and determination. Born at just 28 weeks, she spent 105 days in the NICU. At 11 months old, she was diagnosed with Spastic Cerebral Palsy, and doctors predicted she would never walk, talk, or achieve much in life. Today, Mackenzie is a straight-A honor student, proving every expectation wrong.
Despite her achievements, Mackenzie has struggled with mobility. She lacks the strength to propel her manual wheelchair, limiting her independence and participation in daily activities. But thanks to the generosity of Julie Weintraub’s Hands Across the Bay, she has now received a lightweight power wheelchair, opening up a world of new opportunities.
“She’s had to miss out on so much,” said her mother, Danielle. “She gets bullied at school and has to endure it because she cannot leave, she doesn’t have the strength to self-propel her manual wheelchair. Now, with her new power wheelchair, she will finally be able to storm off like any other kid her age.”
Once they were home, Mackenzie said to mom: “This is like literally the best thing! Mom, is this real? Do I get to keep this? I can’t believe this is happening!”
Julie & Steve Weintraub, long-time supporters of Wheelchairs 4 Kids, expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership. “We love working with Wheelchairs 4 Kids. Together, we have helped several children over nearly 13 years! When nonprofits collaborate, incredible things happen.”
The donation of Mackenzie’s new wheelchair is a testament to the power of community support. Through the generosity of sponsors like Julie Weintraub’s Hands Across the Bay, children with physical disabilities can experience greater independence and a higher quality of life.