
2 minute read
Hot Hatch Chili Walk,Run & Roll Benefitting the Neuro Assistance Foundation
from July 2023
by societylife
Fourteen-year-old Andrew dove into a pool, sustained a spinal cord injury (SCI), and was paralyzed from the neck down. Unfortunately, Andrew’s family did not have insurance. Purchasing a new power wheelchair would cost upwards of $25,000. Andrew's case manager contacted the Neuro Assistance Foundation of Keller (NAF). A power wheelchair had recently been donated to NAF and was the right seat size. Carter, age six, is living with neuromuscular scoliosis, and his physician requested special mobility equipment for him that his insurance denied. NAF was happy to provide the McLaren Major Elite Push Chair stroller to help with mobility. Evelyn, age 35, is paralyzed from a spinal cord tumor. Her social worker requested that NAF provide vital equipment for Evelyn to remain independent. She was given a manual wheelchair, walker, transfer board, and bathroom equipment. The gift of giving independence and mobility is priceless! Spinal cord injuries are some of the most severe injuries an individual can face. They often result in devastating disabilities. The financial consequences of any spinal cord injury can be much more extensive than people realize. Every aspect of their lives will require special accommodations. Even if a person with SCI has private health insurance, most find that their insurance has limits, especially regarding mobility equipment. As a result, the individuals who suffer from these injuries desperately need helping hands.
Neuro Assistance Foundation serves the spinal cord community by providing minor modifications to the home or vehicle, financial assistance towards rehabilitative services, and providing muchneeded durable medical equipment. Providing these basic needs for individuals with spinal cord injuries or disabilities creates a safe environment that can deter future hospital stays. NAF’s mission is to help with mobility equipment, home modifications, vehicle modifications, and technology to ensure maximum independence and self-sufficiency for their clients.
In 2022, NAF helped 580 clients, up from 451 the previous year. They just helped their 2,000th client—6-year-old Daniel, who needed a loaner wheelchair. Almost 50% of those helped were under the age of 18. Their youngest was 15-month-old Laura, who was born with spina bifida. NAF provided catheters while she waited for assistance from Children with Special Health Care Needs program. Their oldest is 92-year-old Ruby, who sustained traumatic incomplete tetraplegia in a fall. NAF assisted with an EZee Life Shower Chair and ROHO mattress overlay. Many of these adaptive vehicles and large equipment are provided by generous donors or purchased with money raised during yearly events. That’s why NAF wants you to sign up for the Hot Hatch Chili Run, Walk, and Roll race at Central Market in Southlake on Saturday, August 19th. People of all ages and disabilities are welcome to participate to help raise money for those in our community living with spinal cord injuries and disabilities. NAF Executive Director, Cindi Cooperman, states, “This is the 14th Annual Hot Hatch Chile Run, Walk & Roll. Proceeds from this event are dedicated to providing assistance to adults and children in our community who are living with spinal cord injuries/disorders. So many of
Fast Facts
14TH ANNUAL HOT HATCH CHILE RUN, WALK & ROLL
Saturday, August 19th from 6-11 am
CENTRAL MARKET
1425 E SOUTHLAKE BLVD
SOUTHLAKE, TEXAS 76092
• Hot Central Market Hatch Chile breakfast is included with entry
• Awards ceremony in the Central Market Cafe patio with DJ after
• Martin House Brewing will be set up on the patio
• All finishers will receive medals and T-shirts
TICKETS:
• 5K – $40
• 10K – $50
• 1 Mile Fun Run – $25


• 5K Handcycle – Free
• 5K Wheelchair – Free
• 10K Handcycle – Free
CAN’T COME TO THE RACE?
A virtual run can be completed at any location. You can walk, use the treadmill, run outside, or participate in another race.
• Virtual Run - $40
NeuroAssistance.org