Dear Friend,

My name is Eve … and I’m 16 years old … and I’ve learned that sometimes the smallest things can change someone’s life.

A walker. A wheelchair. A pair of crutches. For someone recovering from surgery, illness, or injury, these items provide more than mobility. They provide independence, dignity, and hope. That’s why I’m asking you to support the VNA Health Loan Closet.

The Loan Closet provides durable medical equipment FREE of charge to more than 2,500 Santa Barbara County residents every year. By lending wheelchairs, walkers, shower chairs, crutches, and other equipment, the Loan Closet saves our community more than $1 million annually.

I know how life-changing this equipment can be. When I was in fifth grade, I suffered a catastrophic knee injury requiring major surgery. Since then, I’ve experienced multiple knee dislocations and additional surgeries. Crutches, braces, walkers, and other equipment helped me heal and regain my independence.

I was fortunate that my family could provide what I needed. But after I recovered, families began asking if they could borrow my equipment. That’s when I realized how expensive recovery can be.

My grandparents introduced me to the VNA Health Loan Closet, and discovering this remarkable community resource changed everything.

The Loan Closet is neighbors helping neighbors.

Will you join me in giving hope to someone you’ve never met? Your gift helps VNA Health collect, inspect, sanitize, repair, and distribute more than 3,500 pieces of equipment every year.

Because of you, someone recovering from surgery will have a walker. A caregiver will have one less worry. Any person will be able to remain safely at home.

Inspired by the Loan Closet, I started the Lend & Mend Club at Laguna Blanca School so my classmates and I could volunteer with VNA Health and help more people discover this vital resource.

Today, when I see a walker, a wheelchair, or a pair of crutches, I no longer see pieces of medical equipment.

I SEE NEIGHBORS helping neighbors. I SEE FAMILIES finding relief during difficult moments. I SEE OLDER PEOPLE remaining independent in their own homes. Most of all, I SEE A COMMUNITY that believes no one should have to face recovery alone.

Together, we can help our neighbors heal with dignity, regain their independence, and know they are never alone.

Thank you for giving hope to our neighbors.

With gratitude,
Eve Sheldon