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We are committed to breaking down barriers and making everyday life more accessible for individuals living with paralysis. Our Keep Moving Forward (KMF) Grant Program is one of the many ways we provide direct support to those in need. Today, we want to share the story of Frank, one of our grant recipients, whose life has been positively impacted by this program.

Frank’s Journey

Frank sustained a spinal cord injury in 2008 due to a diving accident. Over the years, he has worked hard to maintain his independence, including driving his own accessible van equipped with an EZ Lock system that securely locks his power wheelchair in place while driving. However, when riding as a passenger in his fiancé’s accessible van, things were much more challenging.

His fiancé, who is also in a wheelchair, had to manually secure his power wheelchair using tie-downs—a process that was not only difficult but often impossible to do properly. Without a reliable way to secure his chair, traveling together became stressful and unsafe. Frank knew that having an EZ Lock system in her van would make a world of difference, so he reached out to Triumph Foundation for assistance.

A Life-Changing Grant

Through our KMF Grant Program, we were able to provide Frank with the funding needed to install a Q-lock system in his fiancé’s van. This simple yet essential modification has had a tremendous impact on their daily lives, making travel safer.

In his message to us, Frank shared just how much this grant meant to him:

“I wanted to give you my deepest thank you for my recent grant for a Q-lock. It makes riding in our van feel so much safer. In the past, we were not able to get more than about one or two straps on the chair. It would move around in the car when accelerating and braking. This is an epic improvement and has gotten us out of the house more because I’m not as nervous about riding in the vehicle.”

Making a Difference Together

Stories like Frank’s are why we do what we do. Accessibility should never be a barrier to independence, and with the help of our donors and supporters, we can continue to provide life-changing grants to those who need them most.

If you’d like to support Triumph Foundation’s mission and help more people like Frank, consider making a donation, volunteering, or spreading the word about our programs.

Thank you for being a part of our mission and helping others keep moving forward!

If you or someone you know needs help, please contact us.