LeAnne Lavender’s Journey from Tragedy to Triumph in Fundraising
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — LeAnne Lavender, 31, has transformed her life following her husband Derek’s severe motorcycle accident in June 2016, which left him paralyzed from the chest down.
On June 15, 2016, Derek Lavender suffered a spinal cord injury after a motorcycle crash, prompting an emergency response that transported him to a local hospital. He spent a month in the ICU before being transferred to a rehabilitation center in Chicago, where he underwent extensive rehabilitation.
Derek is now a T4 paraplegic, with limited mobility and feeling below his arms. He was able to return to work within a year post-accident. “He’s doing great and has worked hard to regain independence,” LeAnne said.
As LeAnne navigated their new reality, she launched LoveWell Fundraising, a branch of the Warsaw-based company MudLOVE, which raises funds for various causes. According to Luke Wright, CEO of MudLOVE, the partnership focuses on aiding those in need through effective fundraising support.
The Lavenders faced significant life changes, including selling their home for accessibility reasons and redefining their lifestyle post-accident. LeAnne’s blog, “Lavender’s Longshot,” which highlights their journey and the fundraising effort, has fostered community support and provided encouragement to others facing adversity.
LeAnne continues to advocate for accessible home design and supports families navigating similar challenges. “It’s important to find community and encouragement in your journey,” she stated. LeAnne actively engages with her audience on social media, welcoming inquiries about fundraising and accessibility issues.
For more information, follow her on Instagram @lavenderslongshot or visit her blog at lavenderslongshot.com.