The Texas Ramp Project

Deep Gratitude

2008-09-25T04:46:00.000-07:00

On a beautiful fall Saturday morning in September, ten hard working volunteers devoted their time and energy to building one complicated ramp for D.J., a sweet lady of 95 years.

Six of these dedicated volunteers work at Pediatric Therapy Network as social workers and nurses. One of them, Shannon, is 6 months pregnant with a baby boy - talk about dedication! I don't think I've come across a group of more positive, spirited individuals as enthusiastic about making a difference in someones life. Given their line of work, they clearly recognize what an important cause they are supporting.

Another one of our volunteers that morning was Michael, a friend of Bill who is one of our veteran team leaders, who was visiting us from England. In talking to Michael, it was evident that he was extremely impressed with the scope of our cause the sheer number of ramps we build.

We are able to do what we do because of our team leaders and our volunteers. They deserve endless praise for their efforts because they are the ones changing lives with each and every build. Our clients are forever grateful - I see the smiles on their faces and the tears of gratitude in their eyes - and they are grateful to you.

D.J. is no exception. Her lovely daughter Lucy, pictured here in the yellow shirt, had only reached out to The Dallas Ramp Project in late May/early June and just a few short months later we were in her front yard building a ramp to freedom for D.J..

D.J. and her family have lived in their lovely home since 1944 but getting in and out of the house was getting increasingly difficult for her as her legs just don't seem to be working, as she described it to me. Eager to put her new power chair to good use, D.J. was so looking forward to trying out her new ramp.

This story is not a new one. It is one of many that make up the fabric of our organization. Our volunteers are essential - they are the thread that binds us together - so please keep coming back. There are many others out there, like D.J. and her family, that need us.

Answered Prayers

2008-07-13T19:50:00.001-07:00

The W family was in dire need of The Dallas Ramp Project's help. Meet Virginia, pictured here, and her sweet son Michael. Not pictured here is Virgina's mother, who lives with them, and who is afflicted by Alzheimer's. Virginia's husband is also not in this picture. He suffers from complications from diabetes. The W family has three members that rely on wheelchairs for their mobility.

Michael and his story truly impressed me. He is very accomplished and leads a full and active life. In fact, Michael was a member of the National Honor Society in high school (how many of us have that claim to fame?) and has a certificate in horticulture from a nearby college. He loves to get out there and work in the yard, tinker with the truck his grandfather gave him and enjoys playing with his nieces and nephews.

Michael has Cerebral Palsy and is a quadriplegic. He has overcome tremendous obstacles in his life and continues to do so every day. Michael has built a community of friends and supporters online and engages with the outside world on many different levels - and all by the use of a "head mouse" which enables him to break through his physical limitations.

Virginia and her family have faced some very difficult times. In fact, several years back their main vehicle was stolen out of their driveway. It was later found - burned beyond repair. Their story ended up being published in the local newspaper and people took notice. In fact, Jupiter Chevrolet came to their rescue in 2001 by presenting them with a brand new van that was fitted to accommodate their needs. Their prayers were answered that day.

On Saturday, their prayers were answered once again. Though they had a ramp for many years, it was in severe disrepair. When a social worker told them about The Dallas Ramp Project they called right away. A few days later we came out to survey their house and the build was planned.

On a hot July morning a group of about ten young men from the Trinity Christian Academy, along with Peter, one of our skilled veteran team leaders, came out to help. They were eager to learn and focused on their task. It was a big project but well worth it. Carson, one of the young volunteers, told me that it was rewarding to help give people the freedom they deserve.

This one new ramp will be used by three members of the household. One family's life has been changed - their prayers answered once again - all thanks to our generous volunteers and loyal supporters.

Vernell's Build in Action

2008-06-15T16:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Readers! This is a very special post because it includes two video clips of our dedicated volunteers in action. Enjoy!

On a sunny Saturday morning in June, seven volunteers came out to southeast Dallas to build Vernell, pictured above with his wife Thelma, a new ramp.

Vernell desperately needed his old ramp replaced because it was truly dangerous. In fact, Vernell had taken a very bad fall off of his motorized wheelchair about 3 years ago because their old ramp was so worn down the middle. Since then, it has been just plain scary for Vernell to get in and out of the house. Like so many of our clients, Vernell has been risking his life on a daily basis just leaving his home.

Just last week he was referred to The Dallas Ramp Project by a social worker at Parkland Hospital. A call was placed to our organization last Thursday and by Saturday, Vernell had a front yard full of talented builders working on his ramp to safety and freedom.

Vernell is a diabetic and is afflicted with several complications stemming from diabetes. Life has presented a set of challenges to Vernell but clearly nothing he can't overcome - that's for sure. In talking to him I could tell that he has a strong mind and a strong will. Like our volunteers, Vernell is a dedicated man. He's a deacon at his church and before that was a long distance truck driver for forty years! He's lived in his house since 1959 - nearly fifty years!

Vernell, and his sweet wife Thelma, are both eternally grateful to our volunteers - this new ramp is going to enable Vernell to get back involved with his church. Not to mention the fact that Vernell and Thelma are newlyweds - they have a lot of life to enjoy - including a honeymoon!

Now a few words on our volunteers. If you played either video you can tell that it's hot out there and our volunteers were working hard. And they really, really do. They get the job done and they manage to have some fun doing it.

This build was made possible because of Bill, our veteran team leader from GE, four volunteers from the Grace Community Church in Plano and several volunteers from the King of Glory church here in Dallas. It's clear from talking to Jim, one of our regular volunteers, that building these ramps is truly fulfilling.

Thank you to all of our volunteers for changing the lives of our clients - one story, one ramp, one build at a time.

March & April Means More Ramps in El Paso

2008-05-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

March and April were busy months for the El Paso ramp project. Many volunteers came together to build safe ramps for those desperately in need of them.

Several UTEP students, assigned to get this project off the ground, have been working hard to make sure that El Paso becomes a permanent home for the Texas Ramp Project. They also recognize that building ramps would not be possible if it were not for the devotion of those volunteers who have been dedicated from the beginning. Thanks to them, the El Paso community continues to benefit by giving their clients the freedom to leave their homes.

A few builds in particular come to mind: Josefina G. is a heartbroken woman who lost her granddaughter in December. Her family had hidden the truth due to her medical conditions and she had just learned the sad news when we visited to survey her mobile home. Her brother and nephew had built her a temporary ramp, but it did not have the angle appropriate for her safety. Josefina had no other way out of her home so she had been using it. We showed up just in time to help bring independence to this lovely lady. She even called us ‘angels’. She said that thanks to people like us, everything was possible. Her tears moved us. The Sergeant Majors once again made independence possible as Mac, one of our devoted volunteers, assisted with this switchback ramp.

Lucy Y. is a sweet lady who is currently sleeping in her living room unable to move comfortably in and out of her home. Lately, the fire department had to assist in transporting her out of her home so she could make her medical appointments. Her family was so grateful to our organization - even her grandson, though he seemed ready to use the ramp for his own skateboarding purposes. Overall, this family was left with smiles of gratitude on their faces. Her ramp was built by psychology students who were taught a great deal by Mac.

Ann C. has spent the past 3 years bound to her bed. Though she has a loving family who support the best they can, for years she could not leave the house due to a stroke. Though her devoted husband built her a cement ramp, getting in and out of the house was still impossible as it was just unsafe. She mentioned feeling afraid each time she had to leave the house and was grateful that we were there to make a safe ramp she and her family could use without any precautions. Her tears said it all.

The El Paso Ramp project surpassed the expected amount of ramp builds during these months. These five builds would have not been possible without the assistance of Mac. Mac showed interest in February and has been to every build since then as a helper, team leader, and teacher.

Mac is a retired Allstate Adjuster and has been providing volunteer time through the AARP for the past 4 years. AARP is a membership organization leading positive social change and delivering value to people age 50 and over through information, advocacy and service. He showed up to help on the first build in March and quickly became a team leader for the following four builds. His innovative ideas have made ramps quicker to build while keeping them safe for the clients.

One of the biggest obstacles we have overcome is having a truck to move the lumber. Mac seemed to arrive from the sky just in the nick of time. Other than being the first to volunteer, his truck is the reason so many ramps are currently up and useful. This project requires more than the will to lend a hand and Mac has met so many of our necessities as a new organization. There are not enough or the right words to express how grateful the El Paso Ramp Project is to have found an angel here on earth, in Mac.

The lives of each of these clients, and our volunteers, were all changed due to this organization - and to Mac in particular. El Paso truly is a better place thanks to his desire to help and make a difference. Thank you, Mac, for making it all possible.

Your blogger had a baby!

2008-04-27T20:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Just a short entry to apologize for not getting an April post on the site. I have been a bit preoccupied as my precious daughter arrived in this world on March 21st. Needless to say we have been very busy these days! Please look for a new post in May.

Helping Others...Starting Young

2008-03-09T19:00:00.000-07:00

James H., pictured here on the left, has a sharp sense of humor and a laid back way about him. He has a positive attitude and a determination to live well, despite his numerous health problems.

Originally from East Texas and born in 1943, James is a spry soul that spent almost all of his life right here in Dallas. He has some great stories about driving a "wrecker" to and from lots of far-off places like Laredo, Texas, Sacramento, South Carolina and even Monterrey, Mexico to rescue cars - and their owners. James has several family members in the area that call and visit and friends on his block.

James suffered a stroke last September and lives with both diabetes and heart issues. Getting in and out of the house and just around in general is a big challenge for him. His feet are sore and they cause him a lot of pain. Walking has become very difficult which makes it tough for James to get to and from his various doctors appointments.

Though life is not easy for him, he "tries not to give up" - ever. He has been blessed in that home care physician has just recently approved a wheelchair for him. Then, through the City of Dallas, he found out about The Dallas Ramp Project. He called and a few days later a leader from our organization came out to survey his property. Luckily, James' landlord allowed the ramp to be built to accommodate James and a build was scheduled.

So, yesterday, a cold and windy March day veteran ramp team leader Mac and a group of six volunteers from the North Garland High School Beta Club came out to build James a ramp. Katie, Jazmine, Julio, Becky, Gurbans and Austin were all bright eyed and eager to see their ramp come to fruition. The motto of their Club is "helping others in the community to help themselves." I'm not sure school spirit gets any better than that, that's for sure!

Thanks to Mac and our North Garland High volunteers, James is able to live his life to the fullest.

El Paso Ramp Project Gets Busy in February

2008-03-09T18:39:00.001-07:00

The El Paso Ramp project was quite ambitious during the month of February. Once they found out that Fort Bliss soldiers were eager to help, they decided that building two ramps would be a piece of cake. That was completely evident on the Friday night before the build. The volunteers showed up ready to work and all that could be done was to stand back and let them get down to business.

Saturday morning was no different. About a dozen soldiers showed up to the first site and within 10 minutes, tools and manpower were divided up between the two sites. Once again, all that could be done was stand back and watch them take the projects into their own capable hands. Their energy, determination and leadership skills were astonishing.

These soldiers are in the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy (USASMA) at Fort Bliss and come from different parts of the nation and all walks of life. All of the soldiers were united in their desire to help other people. Their eagerness to help the community just could not go unnoticed. Not to mention the fact that neither soldier was actually from El Paso.

During their nine month stay at the USASMA in El Paso, they have taken this community under their wings and volunteer in many ways throughout the city: From building ramps to building houses for Habitat for Humanity.

“I think it’s great, offering freedom to people who need help and to their families who assist them every day,” said Master Sgt. Marc Hickey, a USASMA Class 58 student and ramp project committee chairperson at the academy. “Otherwise, these people are restricted to their homes, and that’s just not right.”

The homes in the central area of El Paso were built next to the mountain and during a time when accessibility was not a major concern. They have a traditional look with porches and high steps which make ramp building a challenge. For most of these homes, the El Paso Ramp Project focuses on building the ramps from the back door with an additional small ramp for the front porch. Thanks to these sergeants, two clients in this area were able to receive ramps that helped them immediately.

Maria S., one of our recent clients with diabetes, fell a year ago in her bathroom. She has lived in her home since 1966 and found it difficult to get out of her house after the incident. She found our organization and her ramp was built within a couple of hours. To our amazement when our team returned thirty minutes after the build was finished to pick some of our supplies, we found her sitting in her backyard enjoying the sun. It was truly amazing to find her there because before that morning, it would have been impossible for her to have done something so simple as sitting in her backyard and enjoying the early spring on her own.

Azaela P., another El Paso Ramp Project client, was unable to live with her mother because her home was just plain inaccessible. This young medical assistant experienced three strokes within a two year period which severely affected her mobility. Her strength and noticeable desire to live life to the fullest made this ramp build extremely fulfilling for everyone involved. She was ready to live with her mother and join her out in the world once again.

These families were helped thanks to the generous volunteers we found at Fort Bliss, the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy.

The Texas Ramp Project Builds in El Paso

2008-02-03T15:08:00.000-08:00

The Texas Ramp Project has finally reached El Paso! On this beautiful January morning, the El Paso Ramp project focused on its third ramp of the day.

Esperanza’s husband, Octavio, was attentive and helpful as the team set up the area to begin the day. Although the morning was crisp, the sun beamed and the winds stayed away allowing the team to work hard on the task.

Octavio kept himself busy and went out of his way so we could meet Esperanza and take her picture. She was unfortunately not feeling well that day, but allowed me a few moments of her time.

During our visit, Octavio explained that the hospital vans that pick up Esperanza sometimes have a ramp that fits perfect on the side of the porch, but not always. For this reason, the ramp our volunteers are working on today is especially helpful for Esperanza. He explained his own health conditions and, through teary eyes, emphasized how this will him because carrying her down the steps is extremely difficult.

Esperanza has only been in the wheelchair for a month and she is able to walk a few steps with a walker. She gets extremely tired and is unable to climb down the high steps of her front porch. Esperanza is quiet natured and once loved gardening. She spoke of watermelons, she had in her garden, which got huge and gestured the size with her hands. Her assistant explained happily that she will probably spend more time outside again this spring now that she has a way to get outside and into the back yard.

The Texas Ramp Project assisted this devoted husband who drives Esperanza the 40 miles to the hospital for her necessary medical care. This ramp was a blessing not only to Esperanza, but also for her caregiver, Octavio as well.

Hard Work Pays Off

2007-12-16T20:10:00.000-08:00

A small - and intensely focused - team of builders got together this past Saturday morning to build a new ramp for Jesse. Though windy and cold, these guys, along with their veteran team leader Mac, were smiling and joking with each other when I visited. They were hard at work when I stopped by and clearly accomplished what they set out to achieve - once again.

And, what a family I had the opportunity to meet! Jesse is pictured here with his wife Dolly and daughter Margie. Jesse and Dolly have been married for over sixty years. The secret to a long, happy marriage they tell me, is all about the art of compromise and a lot of hard work.

Speaking of hard work, Jesse worked for the same company for over 29 years - and worked seven days a week for 26 of them - to provide for his family. He left the house at four o'clock in the morning for nearly four decades, often not returning until 9 or 10 o'clock at night.

His life changed dramatically back in 1984 when Jesse injured his leg falling off of a loading dock. His leg was fused and contains four steel pins. He has had to make a lot of adjustments as a result of the accident. For one, Jesse was not used to accepting help.

That being said, because navigating his porch was getting increasingly challenging - he turned to the Dallas Ramp Project and he and his loving family are glad they did. Jesse is looking forward to enjoying his new ramp and the ease of getting in and out of the house.

This Christmas, Jesse and his family has a lot to be thankful for - for each other, the rest of their family and the goodness of others. We wish them, and our dedicated volunteers, all of the blessings of the holiday season.

Hope & Determination

2007-12-16T19:24:00.000-08:00

Clester is a sweet, soft spoken woman with an unwavering belief in God. Wheelchair bound and paralyzed on her left side, Clester suffers from both a broken hip and the effects of five strokes. Nonetheless, she is bright-eyed and determined to make it to church this Christmas - now less than ten days away.

Clester, one of twelve children in her family, was born in Nacogdoches, Texas. She moved to Dallas in 1978. She and her husband have lived in their home for over fifteen years. Though you could not tell by looking at her, Clester is 75 years old.

She relies on her sister who lives just down the road to help her get in and out of the house these days. It's a comfort to have her so close by - and especially since her husband is in the hospital at the moment due to a back injury.

Clester also looks to the Bible for hope and inspiration. She is known to quote verses often and finds peace and solace in the scriptures.

Thanks to a small and dedicated team of ramp builders who braved the frigid windy weather this past Saturday morning, Clester and her husband will be able to join their friends and family at her church in celebration of Christmas this year.

Speaking of our volunteers, these hard-working guys from the First Baptist Church of Carrolton, along with their veteran team leader Peter and Steve, one of our "regulars," spent several hours building this ramp in forty degree weather. These guys deserve a "virtual" round of applause for a job well done.

The "Real Deal"

2007-11-11T19:03:00.000-08:00

Just like the Dallas Ramp Project volunteers you see here, Stephen A is also dedicated to helping others. These hard-working volunteers came out one sunny, warm November day to help a man who is more used to helping others than having people do for him, though he knows this ramp will make his daily life a whole lot easier.

Stephen is what I call the "real deal." You just don't meet people like Stephen very often. Along with his wife, Stephen has traveled to many distant places as a missionary to help those in need. From Haiti to Guatemala to the Honduras and Dominican Republic, to name just a few, Stephen and his wife have spent decades teaching in bible schools and even helping to start bible schools in communities where they have never existed. They have spent countless hours encouraging people to learn more, believe more and, ultimately, become more.

Stephen and his wife have plans to travel overseas again in 2008 and get back to doing the mission work they care about so deeply. However, these days life has slowed down a bit for Stephen. Suffering from severe complications from diabetes, these days Stephen is often in a wheel chair. Though optimistic and determined to get back out into the world, Stephen is now facing a new set of challenges.

One of those challenges is getting in and out of his house with relative ease. Thanks to these four generous volunteers from the Custer Road United Methodist Church in Plano, and Don their clever team leader, Stephen will once again be able to take the world by storm - one mission project at a time.

Focus: Volunteers in Action

2007-10-14T16:48:00.000-07:00

It took thirty years for this group of four Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity brothers to reunite. This band of "brothers" graduated from Florida Institute of Technology in 1972 and 1973. Now they get together much more often and do so in the spirit of helping others.

In fact, John, Joe, Michael and Chip are regulars on the Dallas Ramp Project circuit. Joe is a minister at a church in Oak Cliff and actively volunteers for Habitat for Humanity as well. John is even on the board of the Texas Ramp Project and serves as a terriffic team leader - as I was able to witness this past Saturday.

Also helping out on this build were Mike, Dana and James from the Grace Community Church in Plano. All three of them were on their second build and plan on coming out again. Dana has been a resource teacher in Plano for the past decade - she gives back to our society every day - it's a way of life for her.

Our seventh volunteer on this build was Amber - a bright, accomplished young woman with two fantastic careers: One as a physical therapist and the other as a professional track and field athlete. Amber found her way to the Dallas Ramp Project less than two months after she moved to Dallas from Pittsburgh when she was doing some research on behalf of one of her clients. When I asked if she'd be back to help out on a second build she said, with a big smile, "yes, of course!" I bet she'll be back and she'll even invest in her own power drill, too!

Each of these seven volunteers came out early one Saturday morning in October with one common goal: To help someone in need. And indeed they did.

The ramp that was built for Pearl and Regina is sorely needed. Both women - friends for years - are living with pancreatic cancer. Pearl told me that she is wary of her stairs as they are getting increasingly difficult to navigate. Needless to say, she was very excited about her new ramp being installed and truly appreciates the hard work these seven volunteers did for her and for her "big sister" (even though she's younger in years), Regina. Pearl has a lot to live for - her three devoted children, her fourteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren - and is not the type to give up.

Let's celebrate Pearl's fortitude, friendships and the generosity of these volunteers.

Angels Among Us

2007-09-17T18:41:00.000-07:00

As you can see, Eula is used to helping others. She proudly displayed the "banner of recognition" above that was presented to her by extended family members after she nursed them back to health after a series of extended illnesses. After speaking with Eula and her daughter, Rayella, it was clear that this family has a long legacy of giving back.

In fact, for several decades now, Eula has taken care of her 95 year old aunt who lives with them and requires constant around-the-clock care. Both Eula and Rayella make sure that all of her needs are met - and then some.

Eula is 84 years old but doesn't look a day over 70 - I swear. She was born in Alto, Texas and has lived in her home since 1949. When asked her secret to great skin and her lively, upbeat demeanor, she tells me that the secret is to "keep moving."

Eula stays healthy by exercising, cutting the yard, making her own preserves and visiting with her great-grandchildren that stop by to keep her company. Lately, though, it's been increasingly difficult for Eula to maintain her active lifestyle and to get her aunt in and out of the house.

So, Eula reached out to the visiting nurse that calls on her aunt and discussed this issue with her. Luckily, the nurse had worked with The Dallas Ramp Project before and contacted us for help. Eula and Rayella waited patiently for a month and then we scheduled the build.

It was a sunny Saturday morning in early September when a group of six volunteers from the Sun Creek United Methodist Church and Boy Scouts Troop 1299 came out to Eula and Rayella's home to build their family a ramp to freedom. The team was led by veteran team leader Bill C.

There truly are angels among us, just like the banner above says.

What Goes Around...

2007-08-12T18:48:00.000-07:00

Do you know that phrase: "what goes around, comes around?" Well, it came to mind when I was visiting with Louella this past Saturday as her ramp was being built by our talented volunteers - I'll get back to them in a minute.

You see, Louella dedicated nearly half of her life to taking care of people as a nurse for over 36 years. She thanks the Lord for her experiences and her good fortune throughout her career. She retired back in 1995 after decades of service and though her life now is rich and robust, she still misses her work very much.

Louella's days are now filled with church services and grandchildren. Lately, though, it has been getting increasingly difficult for her to get out of her house and into her car - Louella drives herself to and from church and to the store. She heard about The Dallas Ramp Project from a friend at church and decided to give us a call. Just two months later, a group of volunteers set out to build Louella her ramp.

Though Louella's porch area was partially shaded, the temperature hovered around one hundred degrees yesterday. Nevertheless, about ten volunteers spent nearly four hours building her ramp. The camaraderie was palpable on this build - there was a lot of smiling, clearly a lot of hard work and yes, a huge reward as it was truly a job well done - as you can see!

Thanks to the volunteers from Plain-O Helpers, the King of Glory Lutheran Church and the Rejoice Lutheran Church of Frisco, as well as our veteran team leaders Richie and Mac, Louella will be free to get out and enjoy her community and spread the word about The Dallas Ramp Project.

Living Life to the Fullest - Thanks to the Dallas Ramp Project

2007-07-15T19:23:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 14th, six dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers came out to build a ramp for Oneida, a spry 94 year old woman, in Dallas. The build took them nearly four hours to complete. As you can see, it was well worth their efforts as now Oneida has much easier access to the world beyond her front porch.

Oneida, both a talented beautician and small business owner, has always taken the world by storm. She owned her own salon for decades and throughout the years catered to hundreds of customers. She entered contest after contest and has the trophies, accolades and the photographs to prove it. In fact, she showed me a black & white picture of her standing proudly and holding her certificate at the National Beauty Culturists' League Convention that was held in Chicago in 1954. In her words, "I did it all, Baby."

Oneida has lived in her home since 1942. She has enjoyed over six decades of great memories - both inside and outside - of her house and this ramp will allow her to continue living her life to the fullest.

DeClara B: One Hundred Years Young

2007-02-20T16:43:00.000-08:00

On August 13, 2006 DeClara turned one hundred years old. Over two hundred people were there to celebrate this milestone with her. Her family spanned the length of the entire room. You might be able to count the number of generations present on that day on one hand, the number of people at the party if you had a couple hundred pennies but you would not be able to measure the amount of love that seemed to surround her on that day.

DeClara's story is one of constantly giving back - to her family and to her community. In addition to raising nine children, DeClara also took care of her parents as they became less able to care for themselves over the years. She always made time to give back to her neighborhood as well. She was active in the school system, as she taught for years, and she volunteered for several different causes.

A devout Christian, DeClara believes that it was God that pulled her through all of trials and tribulations she has been confronted with throughout her life. She longs to be closer to her church and looks forward to being able to attend the services she misses so - now that a brand new wheelchair ramp has been built for her home.

On a crisp February day, Bill, one of our veteran builders, as well as several other volunteers from GE, came out to build DeClara a new ramp. DeClara, Curtie, Janice and Beverly, three of her daughters, were overjoyed. Thanks to them, DeClara will be able to enjoy the world - and her church - once again.

A Ramp to Freedom: A Holiday Blessing

2006-12-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

Not many people can say that they live in a home with four generations of strong, smart women. Eunice does and is blessed to have the support and the comfort of her daughter, her granddaughter and her great grandchildren by her side every day. Their home is warm and lively, inviting and immaculate. Exactly the type of home you would be thrilled to be invited over for dinner.

As an infant, Eunice was afflicted by polio. Though she suffered complications from this disease throughout her life, Eunice not only survived but went on to raise a wonderful, loving family. She certainly looks much younger than her 81 years and has a sweet smile and a spry spirit about her that is with you long after you leave the room.

Eunice moved in with her daughter, Judy, this past July. Since then, getting in and out of the house - and even her chair - has become very challenging. In fact, during a recent trip to the emergency room - which took over seven hours - the trip up their front steps that night was almost as scary. Eunice had not been out of the house since - it had been almost a month. Judy knew she had to do something to help her mother.

As it happens, the Dallas Ramp Project built a ramp for one of Judy's neighbors so she knew exactly who to call - and she did. One Saturday morning a few weeks later, a group of capable builders from UT Southwestern Medical School came out to lend a helping hand alongside Peter and Bill, long time Dallas Ramp Project builders. Several hours later, the ramp was finished and ready to be used.

Eunice was looking forward to a holiday shopping trip that Sunday and we hope that she, and her family, enjoyed their outing and many, many more to come. Though her ramp is a little too big to fit under a tree, I don't think Eunice could ask for anything more this holiday season, thanks to the Dallas Ramp Project.

One Resourceful Client

2006-12-18T16:13:00.000-08:00

Thomas M was raised with "old school" values. He was taught to respect your elders, treat others the way you would want to be treated and to do the right thing. He and his wife passed those solid, sound values on down to their five children who, in turn, are instilling these same values in their children. Thomas and his wife started a family and created a legacy.

All of that being said, Thomas is certainly not "old school" when it comes to technology. In fact, Thomas keeps up with one of his grandchildren who is attending college in North Carolina via his web cam. He emails regularly, pays all of his bills online and is the one that everyone comes to when their computers aren't working.

Thomas relies on his computer to help him do some of the things that he used to take for granted - like going to the bank. Thomas suffered a stroke in October, 2005 which severely affected his right side. Since then, Thomas has difficulty getting around. He gets dizzy when he stands up and can hardly get down the steps off of his front porch. He really can't rely on his manual wheelchair once he gets out of the house because he doesn't have the strength to maneuver himself around. Though he used to rely on Dallas' Dart Paratransit Services to take him to his doctor's appointments and to the grocery store, lately he feels more and more like a prisoner in his own home.

Determined to regain his mobility one way or another, Thomas successfully secured a motorized power wheel chair which would be custom built for his measurements. Not surprisingly, Thomas researched wheel chair ramps on the Internet. They were all too expensive. So, one day back in October, Thomas called 211 and asked if they knew of any organizations that built ramps free of charge. The operator had heard about the Dallas Ramp Project and gave him the number. Thomas called the Dallas Ramp Project and was told that there were 100 ramps to be built ahead of his. Though anxious to have it built, Thomas knew it would be worth the wait.

As it turns out, Thomas didn't have to wait too long. Just six weeks later and just two weeks before his new chair was due to arrive, Thomas got the call he was waiting for - the Dallas Ramp Project was going to set up a build at his home just one weekend shy of Christmas.

So, on an unusually warm and bright day in December an eager team from Grace Community Church, as well as two veteran and experienced builders, came out to build Thomas a ramp so that he can get out and enjoy life again. Thomas is looking forward to seeing movies, browsing at the mall, strolling through the park and seeing his family - all thanks to the Dallas Ramp Project.

A Brighter Holiday Season Thanks to the Dallas Ramp Project

2006-12-10T18:18:00.000-08:00

Gloria H helped build fighter planes while her husband was in the Navy during World War II. It takes an especially sharp, disciplined type of person to do that sort of work. Gloria is exactly that sort of person: determined and dedicated, capable and courageous.

After the War, she kept the books for Sears for many years until she decided to focus on her family and raise her daughter Jackie. For over fifty years, Gloria kept her household up and running like a fine oiled machine. From cooking to cleaning to caring for her husband and his health conditions, Gloria was on top of it all.

Everything changed on July 4th when Gloria, 83, suffered an attack which brought on intense dementia and Alzheimer's. Overnight, Gloria became disabled to the point where she could no longer take care of herself. She now depends on others to help her with the most basic of tasks. Gloria has had to learn to use a walker and - even more difficult - to lean on others, specifically her caretakers as well as her loving husband, daughter and son-in-law to help her through her daily routine.

Now, getting out of the house gets more difficult by the day. Even with the help of others, the steps leading down from her front porch poses a formidable challenge. One day, Jackie mentioned the problem of these steps to the social worker from the hospice. Just a few short weeks later, a representative from the Dallas Ramp Project reached out to the "H" family and set up a build date.

On a sunny morning in December a group of eager volunteers from EDS along with Mac , a veteran ramp builder, came out to Gloria's house to build her a ramp. This ramp will allow Gloria and her husband to continue to be a part of the world they so embrace - to eat out, to visit their daughter and her husband, to attend church and to see the lights around their neighborhood this Christmas. Thanks to the Dallas Ramp Project, this holiday season will be a little bit brighter for the "H" family.

What a Ramp!

2006-11-19T20:08:00.000-08:00

Broderick is the strong, silent type. His warm smile will stir your heart, his lively eyes are so expressive, they take the place of the words that are difficult for him to say.

Broderick is blessed in many ways: he has a big network of people that support him; his doting mother is there for him in every way and then there are his friends who call on him regularly. A lover of animals, Broderick has a pet bird and two chihuahuas. His family's home - where they've lived for 39 years - is warm, inviting and big enough to entertain all of the people that stop by just to visit.

Broderick has suffered through spinal meningitis and battles sickle cell anemia as well as several other health complications due to both conditions. The outlook is not good for Broderick, most likely his condition will worsen and soon he will be wheelchair bound.

Getting out of the house is crucial for Broderick and his quality of life. Up until now, Broderick has needed assistance in getting out of the house with his walker and down their front porch. Lately it's been very hard for him to navigate those steps - even with the help of his mother.

Thankfully, Broderick's care worker from the City of Dallas suggested that Mrs. P call The Dallas Ramp Project. Well, she did and just a few short weeks later a team of volunteers came out to their residence.

Four of the volunteers were with Girls Inc. a non-profit organization that works to empower women through volunteering and community service. Two of the volunteers were very polite and hard-working young men - aged 14 and 15 - both were tasked with community service for being late to school but mentioned that they loved the Ramp Project so much they were going to come back in the next few weeks...just because. The other three volunteers, veteran ramp builders themselves, had the vision and expertise to build this ramp - which ended up to be over 44 feet long.

Thanks to The Dallas Ramp Project, Broderick has one more thing to be thankful for this Thanksgiving holiday.

Hellen's Ramp To Freedom

2006-11-19T19:37:00.000-08:00

You would never guess that Hellen V is nearly 80 years old. With her lively eyes and energetic spirit, she has the heart and the soul of a woman decades younger than her true age.

Having raised nine children on her own, Hellen is fiercely independent and determined to make it on her own - and, she has, quite successfully. At one point, she even managed two full-time jobs. To her credit, Hellen is now a matriarch of a family that spans five generations.

Plagued with heart problems and diabetes, lately it has been harder for Hellen to move around on her own and especially, to leave her front porch due to the steps that follow. Thanks to the help of one her fellow congregation members at her church, Hellen was introduced to The Dallas Ramp Project.

On a crisp Saturday morning this fall, several volunteers from GE along with a veteran builder came out to build Hellen a ramp so that once again, Hellen get out into the world on her own - just the way she likes it.

Mary H: One Happy Client

2006-11-19T19:29:00.000-08:00

The following is the text of an email that Mary H's daugher sent to John, president of The Dallas Ramp Project, after we installed a ramp at her home:

Hi John:

Mom doesn't go out anymore without someone with her. She had to go to see about an orthopedic modification to one of her shoes and a friend took her today. First outing since the installation of ramp.

REPORT: A++++ Usual routine helping Mom down the stairs, seeing to it that the backdoor is closed, any lots of little details. Then upon return to house, getting things in the house while Mom sits in the car. Today, Mom, I'm told, made it down the ramp - no problem. When friend brought her home and was taking groceries into the house, she turned around and discovered Mom had gotten out of car, closed car door, and was halfway up the ramp. BIG step toward some independence (as much as she can have under circumstances) and BIG BIG help to friend/volunteers and ultimately me. I am sooooo happy.

Thank you so much for the photos. I was hoping to get the group picture of her and the volunteers. I know she was hoping to get a copy. Is that doable?

Anyway, today was an incredibly successful day for her and me. Everytime someone was having to watch her go down the two steps, I feared either a leg or foot was going to cave in and it is a lot of responsibility to place on a friend or volunteer and the ramp has provided a considerable amount of comfort in soooooo many ways.

BTW, I've been singing the praises of the "ramp project" at work. One of my colleagues here has a niece in Plano and she has a child with cerebral palsy. I gave him the information to look you up on the website. I'm sure your article has increased your inquiries exponentially. I am just so grateful that I found the project when I did. Congratulations on such a successful and meaningful venture. How refreshing.

Marilyn

Powerful Community Spirit

2006-11-12T19:33:00.000-08:00

Upon hearing Gradie's story, one word comes to mind: community. A resident of Dallas for nearly forty years, she has always been a most active member of her community and has worked with those around her to make their neighborhood safe from crime and drugs. As the awards and certificates of recognition from the City of Dallas will attest, she has been a great contributor to society.

An elegant woman with pretty grey curls, Gradie has a sharp mind and a quick wit. She is a great grandmother with a rich history of giving back to society. She worked for the Salvation Army in Waco for years and, at one point, led their 32 piece band. At one point in her career, she could play almost any instrument. A talent not shared by many, that's for sure.

After three strokes, a brain hemorrhage, bouts with seizures as well as complications due to diabetes, Gradie is finding life increasingly challenging. She is slowly losing her eyesight because of macular degeneration and is finding that every day tasks are much harder than they used to be - including her daily walks.

With the help of her most supportive roommate, Kathy, and her lovely daughter Mary, as well as her service dog King Solomon who they lovingly refer to as "Soul Man", Gradie has been able to take her walk and get some fresh air. However, lately the stairs in front of her apartment complex have been very difficult to navigate for her - even with Kathy's help. Gradie, being the resourceful person she is, did some research on the internet and found out about the Dallas Ramp Project and sent an email requesting help.

Just a few short weeks later, a group of eager volunteers showed up at Gradie's apartment complex to build a ramp that will enable Gradie to get from her apartment to the parking lot so that she does not have to tangle with the troublesome steps any longer. Gradie really enjoys getting out of the house - for her walks, to go to the store and for the occasional dinner out - and now, thanks to the Dallas Ramp Project, will be able to do so without the fear of falling. This time around, it is Gradie that is thankful for her community - and for the community of volunteers that support the Dallas Ramps Project.

Sincere Appreciation

2006-11-07T18:20:00.000-08:00

Doyle and Florence have a lot to be thankful for this November. Doyle made it clear that only a miracle could have saved his wife – and he believes one did. On September 27 2006, Florence had a stroke and a brain aneurism. It was her birthday. Her aorta was torn and even the doctors did not think she was going to survive. Miraculously, she did and she is coming home from the hospital on Tuesday, November 7 2006.

Though elated upon hearing the news that his wife was coming home, Doyle was also fearful about how he was going to get his wife, who is in a wheelchair, to and from the car into the house as the stroke left her totally paralyzed on her left side. He shared his concerns with the office manager at his mobile home community who introduced him to The Dallas Ramp Project. In Doyle's view, finding our organization was simply another miracle.

So, on Saturday, November 4, a chilly gray morning, a group of hard-working volunteers from the Young Men’s Service League came out to the family's home in East Dallas and built a ramp that extended from the front porch all the way around their house to the start of the driveway. The ramp was installed just three days before Florence is due home from the hospital. Doyle was so appreciative, simply overcome with gratitude; you could see tears in his eyes. He is in awe of what God has done for him and his family – his wife, and their adopted fourteen year old grandson, Blake – to get them through this most difficult time.

A most distinguished looking gentleman with white hair and a gentle smile, Doyle marveled at the fact that your whole life can change – as it did for his family – in a twinkle of an eye. Thanks to The Dallas Ramp project, life has just gotten a little bit easier for them.

Herman H: Thankful Every Day

2006-11-07T18:19:00.000-08:00

Herman does not celebrate Thanksgiving – he is thankful every day. You can tell from his smile that he has a most vivacious spirit and a great amount of determination. He’s full of great advice and is an avid observer of people, places and things.

Herman was shot when he was a senior in high school – caught in the wrong place at the wrong time – and as a result, has lived the past forty years paralyzed from the waist down. Herman’s handicap does not stop him from getting out of the house. In fact, he is quite mobile, traveling nearly three miles via his motorized wheelchair to the supermarket to do his grocery shopping. From all accounts, Herman is a great cook and whips up a storm several times a week. He lives a very full life by giving back to his community, being a good neighbor and brother to his six siblings. He keeps his mind sharp by doing crossword puzzles and Sudoku. Not to mention taking care of Precious, his Pug mix who just delivered seven puppies which have certainly been keeping them both busy to say the least!

Recently, getting out of the house was getting progressively harder for Herman. The ramp that he had been using was rotting and getting quite dilapidated after several years of use and exposure to the elements. So, Herman reached out to one of the organizations that has helped in the past and in just a few short weeks on a cool, crisp day in late October, a team from the Dallas Ramp Project came out to build Herman a new ramp. After just two efficient and lively hours of work, Herman had a brand new ramp extending from his porch to nearly the end of the sidewalk. The ramp is even wide enough for Herman to turn his chair 360 degrees around.

Thanks to The Dallas Ramp Project, Herman has one more thing to be thankful for this year – and beyond.