‘I just feel trapped’: Hamlin family in need of a wheelchair & ramp for accessibility

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)— Three years after a tragic flood in Hamlin, one family says they need home accessibility improvements due to mobility complications.

Resident Sonnie Crossan said three years ago, she and her mother were lucky and in good health to avoid injury from the flood that damaged their home. She said she is worried about a repeat event, but this time, she feels helpless.

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“I don’t have the accessories that I need to get her in and out of the house safely,” Crossan said. “When they said we were having a flash flood, that’s what went through my mind. I’m like, ‘Oh, Lord, how am I going to get them out if something happens?”

Crossan’s mother, Linda, has been using a walker for the past two years and barely leaves the house due to the struggle without the ramp. She told KTAB/KRBC that once she gets a ramp, she has one thing that she wants to do.

“Oh, I want to go fishing… I just feel trapped.  I can’t go anywhere. I can’t do anything,” Linda said.

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Without the ramp installation, Crossan said she would be forced to do the unimaginable.

“She would have to go to a home.  She would have to go into the nursing home, and I promised her I would not. I would do everything in my power to keep that from happening,” Crossan said.

The accessibility ramp must be regulated and installed before Crossan’s mom gets her wheelchair. Crossan said she hopes for the community to come together and help lift a burden off of her shoulders. Those who would like to help can reach out to (325) 201-7999 or visit her GoFundMe page.

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