A handful of local businesses are helping keep Arquevious Crane on the move until money can be raised to get the paraplegic motivational speaker a new wheelchair-accessible van.
Earlier this month, employees at the Gwinnett County District Attorney's Office launched a GoFundMe page to raise money to get a new van for Crane, who was paralyzed from the chest down in a 2007 JV football game for South Gwinnett High. Crane works as a motivational speaker, talking to crowds of students and adults at events throughout Georgia.
His current vehicle is old and prone to breaking down. A new one could cost $65,000 or more.
So while the fundraiser is taking off — having raised north of $17,000 as of Wednesday morning — there's still a long way to go.
That’s where a group of Snellville businessmen come in.
Snellville Police Chief Roy Whitehead and John Soesbe —co-owners of Soesbe's Garage — recently offered Crane free 24/7 care for his existing van, according to a news release from the city of Snellville.
Free tires were also donated by Tire Dock.
Brooks Towing has offered to tow the van for free when it won’t run.
And Autozone also donated parts.
“It’s all about stepping up to help,” John Soesbe told Crane, according to the news release. “Like I told you, we’ve got your back.”
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