Earlier this summer, I had the privilege of traveling to the Dominican Republic with Candace Cameron Bure to deliver wheelchairs. One visit in particular has stayed with me—our time in Cruce de Pavón, a remote rural crossroads in the hills of El Seibo.

There, we met Mirella, a woman whose joy radiates through her entire community. She is so beloved by her community that, when her husband passed away, the children of her neighborhood would come and stay with her, surrounding her with love, making sure she was never alone.

Mirella lost her mobility after an amputation caused by diabetes. She had been borrowing a wheelchair, but never had one of her own—until the day we arrived.

That day also happened to be her 75th birthday!

Our team, hosted by our local distribution partner, Hospital El Buen Samaritano, fitted Mirella with a new GEN 3 wheelchair.

Surrounded by friends, she received her new birthday gift with songs of joy, laughter, and gratitude to God for another year of life. To the best of my knowledge, it was the first time we had ever presented a wheelchair to someone on their birthday—and it became a moment of pure celebration.

Mirella’s story is a reminder that even in the face of challenges, joy can shine brightly. It’s also a glimpse of the resilience, faith, and hope we encounter in so many of the people we serve.

With gratitude,

Nuka Hart
CEO, Free Wheelchair Mission