Two hundred and twenty guests heard inspiring stories of perseverance and hope at the Redmond-based non-profit Pushing Boundaries’ 2nd annual “Success Beyond Paralysis” fundraising luncheon at the Marriott Redmond Town Center. The recent event raised more than $216,000 in gifts, multiple year pledges and matching donations.
Pushing Boundaries is Washington State’s only intensive exercise therapy facility for people living with paralysis. Clients range in age from 11 to 80, with neurological conditions such as spinal cord injury, stroke, and Multiple Sclerosis.
Costs associated with illness or injuries resulting in paralysis are extraordinary. Roughly 25 percent of households with a person who is paralyzed earn less than $10,000 per year. Many families come to Pushing Boundaries in a state of crisis and do not have the means to provide for all their loved one’s rehabilitation needs.
It costs up to $25,000 a year for a person to participate in a one-on-one intensive exercise therapy program at Pushing Boundaries. This type of service is outside the scope of medical insurance. Therefore, Pushing Boundaries relies on the support of the community.
Steve Gross, a client and longtime supporter of Pushing Boundaries, was injured in a motorcycle accident five years ago.
“Pushing Boundaries has helped me to maximize my potential and live a happier more fulfilling life,” Gross commented at the luncheon. “I praise God every day for this wonderful place and the gracious people who donate to Pushing Boundaries because without them I would not be standing before you today.”
Also at the luncheon, Sharon Northrup, co-founder of Pushing Boundaries, stated, “Because of the donations our community provided last year, we have developed a plan that will allow us to provide not only more therapy, but to expand our programs and create a family support center. Most importantly, donations last year contributed to approximately $80,000 worth of financial assistance to our clients and have allowed us to expand our facility to over 5,000 square feet.”
Pushing Boundaries welcomes all who are interested to learn more about the facility during a one-hour tour. Call (425) 869-9506 or visit www.pushing-boundaries.org to RSVP.
