Donations
Clara Gardner is a 17 year-old student, artist and athlete at Northampton High School. On August 2, 2008 she was hit by a drunk driver outside the train station in Springfield, MA. As a result of the accident she has had both legs amputated above the knee. Clara is now embarking on a long journey of rehabilitation and recovery.
The rehab process is full of unique challenges and expenses for Clara. Special equipment and modifications will be required for home and transportation. Many elements of the rehab process may not be fully covered by insurance. Perhaps the most daunting financial challenge will be the selection of prostheses. Medical advances in this field are remarkable but expensive. The most highly functional prostheses with computerized knee joints cost in excess of $50,000 each.
People in the community are organizing to do whatever is possible to help Clara. The Dean’s Beans Foundation has kindly set up a fund for tax deductible donations to support Clara. To contribute, checks may be made out to Dean’s Beans Foundation with “Clara’s Fund” written in the memo line of the check. 100% of all contributions will go directly to Clara.
In the coming months there will be a variety of fundraising events for Clara. When you hear of one of these events, please plan to attend, bring your friends, and donate generously.
All of us who know Clara personally are immensely grateful that she has survived this traumatic accident. The loss of both her legs is a tragedy that is hard to even comprehend. Despite this devastation, Clara has been absolutely inspirational in her positive approach to the recovery process. She and her family are doing everything they can to rebuild her life. Please do what you can to help and support them.
Please give generously using the available donation jars and pre-addressed envelopes.
Contributions may be mailed to:
Dean’ Beans Organic Coffee Company
50 R.W. Moore Ave.
Orange, MA 01364
And please don’t forget to write “Clara’s Fund” in the memo line of the check.