Rollin' for Willz Wheelz

Lace up those skates and get those wheels shiny.... it's All Skate! Join us Sunday, July 7 at the Rollerland Skate Center in Fort Collins as we put the "fun" in fundraising. This is inclusive, family-friendly, all-abilities event will raise money for the Jett Foundation's Accessible Vehicle Fund for Will Barkoskie & family. Tickets are $25 a person (or $75 for a family/household) and include food, soft drinks, skate rental, & playground for 10 and under. Children 12 & under must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Will (age 17), was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) when he was 2 years old. Duchenne is a genetic muscular disorder that afflicts approximately 15,000 children (primarily boys) in the United States. While research and developments have increased significantly since his diagnosis, there still are no cures or treatments available to Will. He has used a power chair to navigate since he was 7, and recently he received a robotic arm to assist with drinking, eating, opening doors and other daily living activities, as his arm function has ceased.

The Jett Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that provides life-changing services and programs to people affected by Duchenne. As you can imagine, to make a van wheelchair accessible is a very expensive modification. In addition, the equipment Will requires takes a lot of room and is very heavy, making a full-size van his safest option. The Barkoskie family is hoping to raise $62,500 towards a new (to them) wheelchair accessible van, and the Jett Foundation will match up to $37,500 of the donations raised and help coordinate the purchase. This program also makes all contributions tax deductible. Having safe, reliable transportation is a must for Will as he prepares for adulthood and will give him a sense of independence as he weighs his options for the future.

Host or Publisher Accessible Vehicle Fund for Will Barkoskie