Clear Pond Beach Wheelchair fundraising effort keeps on rolling in Lakeville, MA.

DATELINE: LAKEVILLE, MA…Imagine being at the beach on a glorious summer day and only being able to view it from a distance, unable to get close to the water or maneuver through the sand. So near and yet so far for a person with disabilities, a situation that the Clear Pond Beach Wheelchair Fund in Lakeville, MA hopes to remedy.

Though thoughts of the beach may be waning during the fall and winter, Robin Marques of Lakeville is determined to keep the Clear Pond Beach Wheelchair fundraising effort rolling, in hopes that the final goal of $4,000 will be reached in time for next year’s beach season.

When Marques’ close friend, Edith Trott of Lakeville, recently passed away, Marques thought about Edie’s life and her love of outdoor activities, which she was only able to embrace as a passive observer. In honor of Edie’s memory, and in the hope that one small change will help local residents think of other ways to make the Lakeville community more accessible, Marques was inspired to initiate the beach wheelchair fundraising effort. Marques believes, “This is a first step in making our beautiful water filled community more inclusive and is a fitting memorial to Edie.”

Most of the donations to date for the beach wheelchair have come from individuals, but Marques is confident that local businesses and civic organizations will also want to chip in once they become aware of the fundraising effort. Contributions may be sent to: Clear Pond Beach Wheelchair Fund, C/O Bridgewater Savings Bank, 6 Main Street, Lakeville, MA 02347.

Dave Austin, Founder and President of Lift & Care Systems in Lakeville, MA, has offered to provide the wheelchair at cost, providing a significant savings for the fundraising effort. Austin commented, “Witnessing the daily struggles and challenges of our clients has made us very aware of the importance of inventive products that empower people with disabilities. We’re pleased to help out with this local effort to provide access to the beach at Clear Pond Park with the acquisition of a beach wheelchair.”

Lift & Care Systems, Inc.
Lift & Care Systems, Inc. is dedicated to bringing the highest quality of life to users and their caregivers by providing products that offer customized solutions to enhance their users’ mobility. Founded in 1993, Lift & Care Systems, Inc. is located at 7 Precinct Street in Lakeville, MA 02347. For additional information, or to arrange for a free personal consultation, please call 508-947-3304, e-mail liftcareinfo@tmlp.net, or visit www.liftandcaresystems.com.