Tulsa Woman With Cerebral Palsy Advocates For Others With Same Condition

A 23-year-old woman said having a debilitating disease has only made her stronger in her desire to help others facing challenges.

She is also trying to cover the costs of a new, high-tech wheelchair that will give her more freedom.

Lindsey Spoon was born with cerebral palsy, a condition that affects her muscles and getting around.

She's never had the ability to stand up or do every day tasks, until now, thanks to testing a standup wheelchair.

"It's made such an impact on my life already," said Lindsey.

She just tried the wheelchair for the first time a few days ago and said it's been life changing.

"I started tearing up and crying because it's the first time I have ever done that before," Lindsey said.

The wheelchair is on loan just for the holiday weekend. But her family said they are working to get her one of her own.

Although insurance will cover part of the costs, Lindsey and her family are hoping for help to pay the rest, which is around $25,000.

"It's hard to come up with those extras when you have a child with a disability and you are a special needs family, those costs come up all the time," said Wendy Spoon, Lindsey's mother.

Lindsey's mother said it will be worth it because she's already noticed an improvement in her daughter's health.

The standup wheelchair not only improves Lindsey's health, but also gives her new experiences.

Since having the wheelchair, Lindsey has been exploring parts of her home she could never reach, including the microwave, kitchen cabinets and fridge.

"We would like to give her this chance and this opportunity, and to be able to stand, something that we all do every day, but it'll open so many doors for her," said Wendy.

Lindsey has her own YouTube channel and is a part of several organizations. She uses those platforms to advocate not only for herself, but also others.

"It's about not being afraid to speak up, stand up, and advocate for yourself and advocate for others too....you might be improving your life but you could also improve someone else's life," Lindsey said.

You can click here to donate to Lindsey's fundraiser for a new wheelchair.