But now, his parents are both in their 70’s and it’s getting harder and harder for them to help Carlos around the house. A few years ago, they relocated his bedroom to the first floor to try and make things easier, but it didn’t solve every problem.

Just like when he was a teen, Carlos was looking for some independence. As an adult man, he simply wanted to be able to use the bathroom and take showers by himself. Unfortunately, many insurance companies don’t think about details like that, and he was unable to get the medical supplies he needed – and paying almost $4,000 out-of-pocket for equipment wasn’t in the budget either.

Thankfully, Carlos has one incredible caseworker at the Magee Rehabilitation Hospital named Andy who saw the need and stepped in to help. He had heard of Chive Charities before and thought it might be just the organization Carlos needed to get his freedom back.

He was right.

Another group of fanatics – both in Philly and beyond – was poised and ready to help. The Chive Charities donor family contributed $3,512 to get Carlos an Active Aide shower/commode chair-tilt. With it, Carlos will save his mother from lifting him in and out of the bath, give him some independence, and keep the family from needing a costly and extensive bathroom remodel. Check, check, and check.

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