Mobility to keep living!

My name is Rui Bernardino, I'm from Coimbra, and I have a progressive disease. I need an adapted van to maintain my independence, work, be with my family, and continue to live with dignity. Every bit of help counts 🙏

Mobility to keep living! — a new opportunity

If you are reading these words, first of all, thank you .

My name is Rui Bernardino , I live in Coimbra and I have Friedreich's Ataxia , a rare, genetic and progressive disease that, over the years, has forced me to adapt my life in many ways.

Some time ago I launched an initial campaign to try and get a van adapted for my electric wheelchair . I received support, affection, and solidarity from many people, for which I will always be deeply grateful.

But I couldn't reach my goal.

It was hard to accept, but the need remains. And so do I.

Therefore, with some humility, I decided to try again.

I'm not asking for help again because I've given up.
I'm coming back because I still want to move forward.

I want to continue working at PLANAPP , travel to Lisbon, participate in my chess tournaments, be with my family, leave the house, meet people, and live my faith by sharing the Gospel.

To someone who doesn't face the daily limitations of a wheelchair, a van might seem like just another vehicle.

For me, it can mean freedom.

It could mean being able to get into the van with my electric wheelchair without constantly depending on others. It could mean going to work, to an appointment, to a tournament, going out with my family, or simply having the freedom to decide where I want to go.

I know these are difficult times and that there are many causes that need help. I don't expect everyone to be able to contribute.

But if you can give any amount, however small, you will be helping me get closer to something I cannot achieve alone.

And if you can't contribute, sharing this campaign can be just as important . Perhaps someone who has never heard my story can learn about it through you.

This second attempt is also an act of courage.

Because giving up would be easier.
But continuing is what I choose to do.

🙏 Help me to keep moving forward.
🚐 Help me gain more independence.
❤️ Help me to continue living the life I still have to live.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to those who have already helped, to those who will help, and to those who will simply share.

A small gesture can take me much further.

About the author

My name is Rui Bernardino, I am 48 years old, from Coimbra, Portugal, married and father of a 13-year-old daughter. At first glance, a normal life… but I have lived with Friedreich's Ataxia since birth, a rare and progressive disease that has brought me great physical limitations.

I've been using a wheelchair for almost 30 years, and now even my voice is limited. Still, I thank God every day for my family, my job, and the opportunity to keep fighting.

It was never easy, but giving up was never an option. I studied, entered university after I was 23, completed my degree in Management and also my master's degree. Today I work, and that gives me autonomy, dignity, and the feeling of continuing to be useful.

In 2014 I wrote the book "It's Possible" because I always believed that my story could inspire other people. And I continue to believe that.

In 2024 I experienced a great achievement: I finally started taking the first approved medication for Friedreich's Ataxia, something that for years seemed impossible.

The disease hasn't won yet. And it won't win easily.

I continue to seek God's will, to cherish family, and to believe that the best is yet to come.

Giving up will never be an option!

Budget and due dates

I plan to campaign for 50 days.

I need more than €30,000 for the van; I already have about €3,000 from the previous campaign. I'm going to buy a new one because that's the only way to get a discount on VAT and other taxes. The rest will cover your percentage and other small expenses (video editing and advertising).

The adaptation process is still pending, but it is covered by a grant from IEFP at no cost.

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