Muffy Davis - Get Utah Moving!

Dear friends,

I am writing to you today about a program that is very important to many Utahans, like me, who use mobility devices in their everyday lives. I know firsthand just how far people can go when they have the right mobility device. My career as an athlete has taken me from the ski slopes of Nagano, Japan; Sochi, Russia and Salt Lake City, to the winding roads of England to compete and serve as an ambassador in both the winter and summer Paralympics. Customized mobility devices have helped me win seven Paralympic medals including three golds. No skier has ever won a medal without the right skis, and no biker without the right bike. As a person with a disability, it is no different for me. The right equipment, adapted to my unique needs, has allowed me to pursue my dreams along with other great athletes from around the world.

Mobility and access are easy to take for granted, but for many Utahans, being able to move about their communities freely is not possible without the help of specialized assistive technology. Assistive Technology is specific to the needs of each individual and the right type of device or accommodation can have an immeasurable impact on someone’s quality of life, independence, employment, health, and safety.

Unfortunately for many people, the financial difficulties of having a disability make acquiring the needed assistive technology very difficult. Each year, my friends at UATF (Utah Assistive Technology Foundation) provide grants and loans to Utahans in need to acquire the right kind of assistive technology to keep them moving.  UATF grants and loans are vital for people who would not be able to live independently and productively without them. Thanks to assistance from UATF my family has been able to acquire an accessible mini-van, and an elevator for our home. The difference these enhancements make in our lives simply cannot be measured in dollars and cents. They are vital for our quality of life and our ability to travel together and live together, safely and freely.

Utahans have always been a people on the move, working hard, getting involved in our communities and exploring the natural wonders of our beautiful state. At UATF, we are making sure that all Utahans are able to carry on this legacy, regardless of having a disability.

As an athlete, I am always striving to improve on my previous performance. My friends at UATF are no different, and this year they want to help more Utahans than ever before.

I am hoping to raise $25,000 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilties Act. Join me, and you can help someone in your community achieve the mobility they need to pursue their dreams. Together, I believe we can…

 GET UTAH MOVING!

Sincerely,

Muffy Davis