After ‘temporary’ paralysis lasts years, neighbors rally for mother

(YouTube)


Save Story
Leer en español

Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes

This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.

WEST JORDAN — Lori Brady’s paralysis was sudden and unexpected.

What at first just seemed like back pain soon grew to a feeling numbness in Brady’s stomach. After only a few days, she couldn’t stand up on her own anymore. Doctors told her the paralysis should go away after a few months with treatment, but years later she remains a paraplegic.

“She has been bound to her home for the last nine years since an illness took away her ability to walk,” said neighbor Ron Vandermyde. “We have watched her try to raise her kids and every week she is looking for rides for her kids. Often she can’t make it to activities.”

Yard Sale Fundraiser

Location: 5057 Bridle Creek Drive in West Jordan

Time: Saturday from 7:30 a.m.

What: Four garages of good donated by the community, plus treats for sale

Neighbors came together with an idea to raise money for a van that would accommodate Brady’s wheelchair and include hand controls to allow her to drive again. Vandermyde said her family has one car and her husband needs it for work, so that leaves her stuck at home.

“I think would vastly improve their quality of life and give Lori the freedom she hasn’t had for so many years,” he said. “More importantly, it would put her in a position where she can support her children more effectively and just be present when she needs to be.”

So far, the community has been able to raise $6,500 of their $20,000 goal. Neighbors are holding a yard sale starting at 7:30 a.m. Saturday at 5057 Bridle Creek Drive in West Jordan as another fundraiser. There will be four garages full of goods donated by the community, plus scones and other treats will be for sale.


I think would vastly improve their quality of life and give Lori the freedom she hasn't had for so many years.

–Ron Vandermyde


Brady is someone who is always looking to serve others, according to neighbors. They said she loves to crochet blankets for families with new babies to show she cares.

“What is great about Lori is that she is not a complainer — she takes it and has a good attitude and is always cheerful,” he said. “She is always trying to help other people the degree that she can, but this would really open up a new vista for her of opportunities.”

Those who would like to contribute to the fundraising efforts can make a donation* through Go Fund Me or at America First Credit Union to the Lori Brady Van Fund.


*KSL.com has not verified the accuracy of the information provided with respect to the account nor does KSL.com assure that the monies deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.

Related links

Most recent Utah stories

Related topics

UtahUpliftingFamily
Natalie Crofts

    STAY IN THE KNOW

    Get informative articles and interesting stories delivered to your inbox weekly. Subscribe to the KSL.com Trending 5.
    By subscribing, you acknowledge and agree to KSL.com's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

    KSL Weather Forecast