Plymouth, Massachusetts — A Massachusetts mother is turning to her community for help after a devastating accident left her family without the wheelchair-accessible van her son depends on every day.
The emotional story has touched many online after Kimberly Yorke shared how the family’s specially equipped vehicle was destroyed in an unusual accident involving multiple deer.
Family Left Without Essential Vehicle
Yorke explained that their wheelchair van was totaled after it was struck by seven deer last month, abruptly cutting off transportation for her son Zachary.
The van was not simply a convenience for the family — it was a necessity that allowed Zachary to attend events, participate in activities and remain connected to the community.
“It was a lease to own,” Yorke told CBS News. “So it wasn’t even mine to buy back from them.”
The loss has created a major financial and emotional burden for the family, especially because wheelchair-accessible vans are extremely expensive.
According to Yorke, most replacement vans cost more than $40,000 even for basic models, putting them far outside her budget.
Mom Launches Emotional Plea for Help
Desperate to find an affordable solution, Yorke turned to a local Facebook group in hopes someone might know of a used wheelchair-accessible van within reach financially.
“I am desperately searching for a reliable wheelchair van for my son. Ours was totaled 4 weeks ago by several deer and we have been without a vehicle since,” Yorke wrote.
She added, “Please if anyone has any knowledge of any $10,000 or less, I would appreciate your help. My son is extremely active in the community and has several trips planned.”
Her message quickly spread throughout the community, drawing attention from people moved by the family’s situation and willingness to help.
Zachary Remains Active Despite Challenges
Although Zachary uses a wheelchair, Yorke says her son refuses to let that stop him from living an active and fulfilling life.
The Plymouth teen regularly participates in activities around town, including country music concerts and adaptive sports such as surfing and boating.
Without the van, however, Yorke worries he could spend much of the summer confined at home, unable to attend the activities and events he loves most.
The situation has made finding another accessible vehicle even more urgent for the family.
Community Support Overwhelms Family
Yorke later shared an emotional update, revealing she had been overwhelmed by the kindness and support pouring in from strangers and neighbors alike.
“I’ve cried numerous times in the past couple of days,” she said while becoming emotional during an interview.
Although she has not yet secured a replacement van, Yorke said the family has received several promising leads thanks to the community response.
“I just have to say ‘thank you’ from the bottom of our hearts for all of the love we have felt since i placed this post!!,” she wrote online. “We are truly humbled by the outpouring of comments, messages and calls.”
Mother Says She Won’t Give Up
Despite the setback, Yorke says she remains determined to find a solution for her son.
She explained that Zachary’s happiness and smile continue to motivate her through the difficult process.
“Pretty priceless. You get a pretty nice smile,” Yorke said while describing her favorite thing about her son.
As Zachary held her hand, she added, “He is 100% my whole heart.”
“There is nothing that I wouldn’t do for him.”
What do you think about the community support shown to this family? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
