|
Ginger Nelson lives with a permanent physical disability that severely limits her ability to walk or stand for long periods. This makes daily life challenging—especially when it comes to completing household tasks, attending medical appointments, or participating in her community.
Without a reliable mobility device, Ginger often had to wait for help from her daughter or caregiver to get things done. But thanks to a recent grant from the Blanche Fischer Foundation, she now has a foldable mobility scooter that gives her the freedom to move—on her terms. “This scooter means I can do more for myself,” Ginger said. “Inside my home and out in the world.” Compact enough to travel in her caregiver’s car, the scooter will allow Ginger to get to appointments, visit nearby places, and navigate her home with greater ease. Research shows that for older adults, maintaining independence improves both mental and physical health—and Ginger agrees. “This will absolutely help my overall well-being,” she said. Her story is one of many—Oregonians with permanent physical disabilities finding strength, dignity, and freedom through the support of the Blanche Fischer Foundation. |
|
Before receiving her grant, Jodi — who is Deaf and Blind — had to rely on creative workarounds to keep track of time. Waking up on schedule, staying on task throughout the day, and timing her cooking and baking all required assistance or careful guesswork. Maintaining her routines independently was a constant challenge.
Through the Blanche Fischer Foundation, Jodi received a Meteor Vibrating Watch from Deafquip in New Zealand — a change that’s transforming her daily life. The watch uses gentle vibrations to alert her at set times, helping her wake up, manage her schedule, and know exactly when something in the oven is ready. For Jodi, the Meteor Watch is more than a timepiece — it’s a personal guide on her wrist, giving her greater independence, confidence, and joy in the things she loves most. |
|
Before receiving her grant, Kathryn — who is blind and lives on a limited income — didn’t have the resources to always pay for transportation to her community involvement activities. An active member of the LILA (Lane Independent Living Alliance) peer support group and a musician who shares her talents with students at the University of Oregon, Kathryn is deeply committed to uplifting others. But without reliable, affordable transportation, she often faced barriers getting to rehearsals, peer support meetings, and other opportunities to serve.
While the Blanche Fischer Foundation does not typically fund this type of transportation, Kathryn’s unique situation and unwavering dedication to supporting others inspired us to act. The Foundation provided RideSource passes, ensuring she could travel safely and consistently. For Kathryn, these passes are more than a ride from place to place — they’re a bridge to connection, service, and sharing her gifts. By supporting Kathryn, the Foundation also strengthens LILA’s peer support network and enriches the University of Oregon’s music program, extending her impact far beyond herself. |
|
Power On With Limb Loss | Platinum Sponsor
The Blanche Fischer Foundation was proud to be a 2025 Platinum Sponsor of the Discover Conference, hosted by Power On With Limb Loss. This annual event brings together individuals living with limb loss and limb difference, along with their families, healthcare providers, and advocates, for a powerful weekend of connection, education, and inspiration. Spotlight on Paula – Connection in Action Executive Director Paula Free is a fierce advocate for individuals navigating limb loss. During a recent visit to Portland, Paula connected with one of BFF’s grant recipients—offering support, sharing valuable resources, and helping strengthen our shared community. This meaningful exchange, facilitated by BFF, reflects our core values—creating opportunities for connection, empowerment, and dignity across Oregon’s disability community. |
Paula Free, Power On With Limb Loss Executive Director - left.
Kristin Fay Venus, Blanche Fischer Foundation
- Right
|
|
|
