A FULL HAPPY LIFE: HARLEY’S STORY

Harley Rose Smith of Dimondale, Michigan, was born into a family deeply rooted in the construction trades. Her great-grandfather ran his own construction business for 65 years, her great-uncle has led his construction business for 45 years, and her grandfather dedicated 45 years to the industry. Harley’s mother, Lindsey, also spent more than a decade managing maintenance crews. Even Harley’s older brother is pursuing his electrical apprenticeship, continuing the family tradition of craftsmanship and dedication. For Harley, the world of construction isn’t just a family legacy; it’s part of her story.

At just three months old, Harley experienced her first seizure during her great-grandfather’s funeral. From that moment, life changed dramatically. Harley lives with quadriplegic cerebral palsy, seizure disorder, respiratory distress requiring oxygen support, and Schinzel-Giedion syndrome. She is nonverbal, non-ambulatory, and relies on a feeding tube, requiring 24/7 care. Her mother, Lindsey, became her full-time caregiver while balancing work with the state’s Home Help program and other responsibilities.

The family first learned about The Joseph Groh Foundation through New Mobility Solutions, who suggested applying for assistance to fund a rear-entry wheelchair-accessible van.

Lindsey shares, “A properly equipped handicap-accessible van would truly transform Harley’s life. It would provide safe, dependable transportation for medical care and therapy appointments. To Harley, this van represents dignity, inclusion, freedom, and the chance to share in life's precious moments. As her parent, I want nothing more than to give Harley the safest, happiest, and fullest life possible. This van will make a profound and lasting impact on both of our lives.”

The Foundation’s donors stepped in to help, supporting Harley’s request for a properly equipped van, a vehicle that would transform her daily life. With this van, Harley can safely attend medical and therapy appointments and participate in family outings in ways that weren’t possible before.

Thanks to the generosity of the Foundation’s donors, Harley’s family now has the transportation they need to help her experience life to the fullest, a profound impact that reflects both the power of community support and the life-changing reach of The Joseph Groh Foundation.

Throughout the year, The Joseph Groh Foundation provides life-changing grants that help individuals connected to the contracting industry with life-altering disabilities access essential resources—such as accessible vehicles, bathroom modifications, and rehabilitation technology—empowering them to reclaim independence. By becoming a monthly Luminary, you help propel this mission forward.