Generous APP reader, business give paralyzed Neptune mom a way out of the house
NEPTUNE - Dominique Medler worried that her 63-year-old mother, who was paralyzed by a November car accident, would be unable to leave their Neptune home because it lacked a wheelchair-accessible ramp to the front porch.
Thanks to the generosity of an Asbury Park Press reader and a local business, that is no longer a problem.
Amramp New Jersey, which specializes in ramp installation and has a warehouse in Wall, installed a 20-foot steel-based ramp last week at a deep discount. The company was contacted by a Toms River resident who read about the Medlers’ plight in the March 4 edition of the Press. The resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, was looking to transfer a ramp that her family no longer needed to the Medlers. After a few calls she connected with Amramp, which doesn’t transfer ramps, but offered to install a new one for $1,500 — a quarter of the normal cost.
“This makes a big difference — now my mom can get outside,” Dominique Medler said. “That’s the main goal here, is the happiness of my mom.”
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With limited mobility below the neck, Elizabeth Medler, a retired special-education teacher, is mostly confined to a bed. Dominque Medler, 32, took leave from her career as a tech-industry recruiter to become her mom’s full-time caretaker.
Insurance balked at Elizabeth’s long-term coverage needs, putting a financial strain on Dominque, who has taken up waitressing on weekends to pay the bills, and her brother Dante, who lives nearby and works as an auto mechanic.
“We’re happy to give back to our community when the opportunity presents itself,” said Jamie Higley, marketing director of Amramp New Jersey.
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Dominique said the family is touched by the support of everyone involved.
“I really appreciate them for doing this,” she said. “It helps a lot.”
To further the cause, Dominique is launching a nonprofit titled “Liz’s Healing House Foundation” with a goal of providing resources for families affected by spinal-cord injuries. A kick-off fundraising mixer will take place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. June 23, at 618 Restaurant in Freehold. There is no charge to attend, but donations (cash or check) and gently used sneakers will be collected.
Anyone interested in attending should RSVP at www.eventcreate.com/e/lizhealinghousefundraiser. For more information, email Dominique Medler at [email protected].
Jerry Carino is community columnist for the Asbury Park Press, focusing on the Jersey Shore’s interesting people, inspiring stories and pressing issues. Contact him at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: APP reader, business help get ramp built for paralyzed Neptune mom
