An outpouring of kindness has made life a little easier for the Scharien family of Elm Creek.
Thanks to local fundraising efforts and community support, 12-year-old Blake Scharien — who lives with a rare neurological disorder — now has a wheelchair van to meet his growing transportation needs.
“We are just so incredibly grateful,” said Blake’s father, Patrick Scharien. “This van means Blake can safely get to his specialist appointments, make it through the long hospital stays, and even enjoy an outing with family or friends when he’s able. It gives him a lot more dignity and comfort, and it takes a weight off our whole family.”
Blake’s Grade 6 classmates at Elm Creek School, along with their teacher Mrs. Spencer, helped spearhead the effort through the “Change to Change Blake’s Ride” fundraiser. The Carman Church of Christ, Mr. Charlie Scharien, and dozens of online donors also contributed through a GoFundMe campaign.
“Seeing how Blake’s class and his whole school came together really touched us,” Patrick said. “The kids showed that small acts of kindness can make a huge difference. We’ll never forget what they did.”
For the family, the support goes far beyond the financial impact.
“It’s not just about the van,” Patrick added. “It’s about knowing we live in a community that surrounds us with love and support. When you’re dealing with a child’s fragile health, that sense of community is something you lean on every single day.”
