It takes a village

How to Help

We sometimes have people ask how they can help us especially in times of struggle.  We have also had requests for us to setup a GoFundMe.  While we're so grateful of our generous community, we would like to first focus on becoming sustainable as a family unit (as much as possible).  I will update this page when I can and include ways you can help.  For those of you who wish to donate money, the best place is to Ellie's MiAble account.  It's tax-free.  You can also donate via Venmo or PayPal but we do have to declare that income on our taxes.

​Thank you for being part of our village.  With love, Courtney

Hire Us

Donate

MiAble contributions are TAX-FREE
We are required to pay taxes on donations via PayPal and Venmo.  MiAble dollars go further.

GIFT

Birthday Wish Lists

Some of the kid's favorite things:
Ellie:
  • Lego
  • Crafts/art
  • Sago Mini
  • Doc McStuffins & playing vet hospital
  • Mini Lalaloopsy dolls
  • Nintendo Wii
  • Nintendo Switch
Nathan:
  • Lego
  • Hot Wheels
  • Beyblades
  • Super rare Zhu Zhu Pets (samurai)
  • Nintendo Wii
  • Nintendo Switch
  • Science
  • Insects/nature
  • Glue sticks for low-temp mini gun

ADVOCATE

Stick up for us

  1. Support disability rights.
  2. Practice appropriate infection control procedures such as washing your hands and wearing a mask.
  3. Just say "hi" to people who seem different.  No need to stare or uncomfortably look away.
  4. Teach your children to include others, lead by example.
  5. Stand for science!
  6. Donate to research.
  7. Contact your legislators.
  8. Share our posts.
  9. Shop with us.
  10. Stand up for others when you know they are being wronged.

Resources

MI Disability Resources
​MDHHS PDN Reimbursement Rates
​Understanding Reimbursement Rates
Resources for Children with Complex Medical Problems - UMICH
KidsWaivers.org

SUPPORT

Extra Expenses

Having a medically fragile child means we use a lot more of certain resources than we would typically.  We have setup a MIAble account for Ellie so we have funds when we need to pay for equipment or supplies for her.
  • Wheelchair van/ramp, repairs and maintenance
  • Vinegar
  • Toilet paper (always extra people in our house especially when we actually have nurses)
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Nitrile exam gloves
  • Electricity
  • Phone service (land-line required for elevator safety)
  • ​Distilled water
  • Tissues
  • Paper towel
  • Adaptive supplies such as duct tape, bungees, command strips, foam, fabric, etc.

​Things we have deprioritized so we can make sure our kids are well cared for:
  • Lawn care
  • Housekeeping
  • Home repairs and upkeep

Stores we frequent:
  • Meijer
  • Aldi
  • Trader Joes
  • Target
  • Amazon.com