By: Amy Rowley
I met Colleen MacDonald at a local coffee shop to interview her about Bronwyn’s Wheelhouse Project. The not-for-profit organization is in its infancy but has a clear mission to help children with disabilities and their families through home renovation. I was not prepared for the depth in which Colleen’s story touched me. I was left inspired by her efforts to honor her daughter and make life a bit easier for special needs children and their families.
Bronwyn’s Story
Bronwyn MacDonald was born in 2003. After a normal pregnancy and newborn period, she began having difficulty meeting physical milestones. Seizures developed at age two and as her condition worsened she transitioned to using a wheelchair for support and mobility. As Bronwyn grew, her parents began to realize that their small home was not ideally suited for a person in a wheelchair. Narrow doorways and an inaccessible bathroom and kitchen meant that Bronwyn needed to be carried from room to room, a task that was becoming more difficult as she grew.
While Colleen prepared meals in the kitchen, the only place Bronwyn’s wheelchair fit was directly beside of the stove. Bronwyn’s parents contacted Brandon Chartrey of Yesterday’s Homebuilders to discuss home renovation ideas. “We were trying to predict and imagine what our living space was going to be like as Bronwyn got older. How long can I do this lifting? How do I foster her independence and maintain her dignity,” reflected Colleen.
The goal was to open up the living space so there was plenty of room for a wheelchair, redesign the bathroom for independence, and to install a lift system throughout the home. However, it became clear that the remodeling project was beyond the family’s financial means.
Chartrey was motivated by the family’s commitment. “I saw first-hand how Colleen and Brian managed with jobs and parenting a child with disabilities. Even though they worked hard, so much of their money went to hospital bills and they were not able to afford the renovations that would truly make their life easier,” says Chartrey. He contacted several suppliers and contractors in the local community and rounded up donations of time and materials for the project. “I had almost 100% participation – everyone was willing to give something to the cause,” reflects Chartrey.
“When Brandon called us with this news, we were so grateful but it was also hard to feel as if we could accept the gift. We kept thinking ‘there must be other more deserving families,’” remarks Colleen.
Prior to breaking ground on the project, Bronwyn began having seizures that would not stop. Sadly, at age seven, Bronwyn passed away in her parents’ arms.
Bronwyn’s Wheelhouse Project
Although stricken with grief, the MacDonald’s and Chartrey recognized that other families were also struggling with home access issues. In her memory, Bronwyn’s Wheelhouse Project was formed. “With exceptional kids, regular parenting duties are that much more intense. If we can make a family’s life feel more ‘normal’ – well, it’s a true gift,” states Colleen when describing her motivation to continue with the project.
The group is close to completing a project to help 13-year-old LilyAnne Moses maneuver through the bathroom and into the shower. The remodel includes grab bars for safety and a shower with a bench and hand-held sprayer. “Originally, the sink counter was oriented so that it reduced the entry space by about two-thirds. You could not help LilyAnne without bashing an elbow or knee as you entered. It was amazing to design the whole project with LilyAnne in mind,” says mom Erika Krupp.
“I feel very lucky that we were connected with Colleen and Bronwyn for so many years. This project does not feel like a random bit of a good fortune but rather a continuity of friendship,” says Krupp when reflecting on how the project started. “It’s heartwarming. I feel so much gratitude for the community’s support for LilyAnne,” continues Krupp.
Bronwyn’s Wheelhouse is currently looking for their next home renovation project. To nominate a family with a special needs child, click here. Families must live in Thurston County and own their home to be eligible. Special thanks to the Tumwater Kiwanis for supporting the organization while they achieve their non-profit status.
Chartrey is proud of the business community stepping in to fill the gap. “It’s part of being in a community. If you have an opportunity to help, then you do what you can. I encourage businesses and individuals that have skills or products to help. It’s not about making yourself feel good – it’s just about doing what you can.”
To read more about Bronwyn’s Wheelhouse Project, please visit their site.
