A GoFundMe page has been set up for 42 year-old Richmond resident, Jodie Sheffield, who was born with a congenital birth defect.
Jodie’s sister and carer, Melanie Sheffield, created the page to raise funds for an electric wheelchair after the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) did not include it in Jodie’s NDIS plan.
A groovy four-wheel drive electric wheelchair is at the top of Jodie’s wishlist, but Melanie said they would first have to speak to an occupational therapist to see which one would be most appropriate for Jodie’s needs.
The goal of the fundraiser is $20,000, with the money raised to go towards the purchase of a modified electric wheelchair, as well as wheelchair ramps and handrails for Jodie’s home. If there are any leftover funds, Melanie said she would like to create a system of support for her sister.
“We want to be honest and transparent about the money we have received… any money leftover would go towards a registered charity for Jodie as she moves through life,” she said.
Currently Jodie has a manual wheelchair, but as she is missing both arms above the elbow and her left leg above the knee, it can be difficult for her to go out and explore independently.
Jodie also has a prosthetic leg, however it is no longer suitable for her body and causes her a lot of pain. She used to drive a car, but due to these circumstances, driving is no longer possible.
Under the previous NDIS, Jodie was receiving a new prosthetic leg every two to two-and-a-half years but since the new NDIS was introduced by the National Disability Insurance Agency, this has not been the case.
A prototype of Jodie’s new prosthetic leg has been created, however there are no guarantees that the leg will be completed as it is still being developed.
To donate, visit Jodie’s GoFundMe page at gofundme.com/help-jodie-buy-electric-wheelchair.
