The Muscular Dystrophy Family Foundation is so grateful to all of our supporters past and present for providing us with funding to be able to give accessible vans to Hoosiers navigating the difficulties of living life with muscular dystrophy and transportation needs. Having an accessible vehicle is highly important for fostering independence and helping individuals and families live life to the fullest.

We are so grateful to partner with Superior Van & Mobility and Vocational Rehabilitation for getting Markyia her accessible van. MDFF funded the chassis (the van itself before being converted to be accessible), and Vocational Rehabilitation is helping Markyia with driver’s training, installing hand controls, and the accessible conversion of the van. Superior Van & Mobility, a long-time partner with MDFF, found the perfect van for Markyia. Together, we make a tremendous difference to give individuals and families access to transportation.

Below is a Q&A with Markyia, the recipient of our first partnership with Vocational Rehabilitation.

What was the moment like when you found out that you were getting a van? I was ecstatic when I found out that I was picked to receive a van. My mom and I were at my house and we both were so happy. I just remember thinking that my time waiting on the IndyGo bus was coming to an end!

What does having the van mean to you and your family? This van means everything to my family and I. There have been so many struggles that we have gone through, with transportation. It is such a blessing to have reliable transportation that fits my needs.

What is a fun trip that you have done in your van? Or, what is a fun trip you have planned for the future? We just got the van so we don’t have any trips planned just yet. I have really been wanting to go to a concert but the artist I like never comes here. Now maybe I could go to Chicago for a concert from one of my favorite artists coming up soon!

What are some of your hobbies/interests? I love to read; murder mysteries especially. I enjoy being outside as well. I like to try new things and try new foods. I love to cook also. 

What would you tell other families who are looking for hope and help? Do not give up. It is very hard to find the resources that you need when you are disabled but there are good ones out there, especially with MDFF. I applied for the van giveaway for 3 years because I never gave up.

Anything you would like to say to the donors who support MDFF? I would like to thank them for their kindness. It is so appreciated that they are so generous. It is so hard dealing with the physical obstacles, the financial ones take a toll as well when you do not have resources like this. So I am so grateful that there are so many people who care and see us. Thank you so so so much!