A local GoFundMe campaign has begun in the hopes of helping a Whitehorse family buy a wheelchair-accessible van.

Wayne Thomas, a 26-year-old born-and-raised Yukoner, has a neural tube defect known as spina bifida.

Since birth, due to the level of his affliction, Thomas has always been dependent on a wheelchair.

He is now in desperate need of a safe, reliable, wheelchair accessable van.

“Wayne and his family work very hard to maintain the van they currently have; however, it seems to be in constant disrepair,” said Kerri Ryall, a cousin of Thomas who also lives in Whitehorse.

“They need a safe, reliable vehicle they can depend on, especially during the cold winters. A wheelchair-accessable van is key to his independence.

“As you can imagine, the physical hardship of transferring Wayne in and out of vehicles without wheelchair access is extremely difficult,” Ryall said.

The expected cost of the van is $45,000, depending on where it’s purchased. The campaign goal is $45,000.

“Although he is capable of using public transit, he is not able to access many of the bus stops because of snow during the winter months and is not able to sit outside for long periods of time in the cold.”

Thomas also has the use of a manual chair, if needed, but due to his posture and seating needs, this chair cannot be tolerated for long without causing him pain and discomfort.

“Having a safe reliable vehicle would mean the world to them,” Ryall said.

“It would enable them to go on day trips, as Wayne is an avid fisherman and likes to see the sights. With their current van, they seldom leave city limits due to the fear of it breaking down.”

As well, without reliable transportation, Thomas would be unable to keep his current shifts at the local Walmart store, where he has been employed for 10 years.

Thomas likes to participate in Special Olympics bowling every season, attends church functions, and likes to spend time out visiting friends and family.

He enjoys going out to support local bands on the weekends or volunteering at local events.

“Wayne is the kindest and sweetest guy I know; if I could just do this one thing for him, it would mean the world to us,” Ryall said.

“Anything will be a step forward.”

So far, an estimated $830 was raised over 12 days.

The link to the GoFundMe campaign: https://www.gofundme.com/vt-wheelchair-accessible-van