Draper and partners, including Mermet USA, are close to reaching the goal to raise $20,000 to provide a mobility chair to a catastrophically wounded U.S. veteran.

Corporal Sue Downes is a mother of two from Tazewell, Tennessee. She sustained severe injuries while serving in a military police unit in Logar province, Afghanistan, including the loss of both of her legs. Downes is just one of many catastrophically injured veterans helped by the Independence Fund, a non-profit organization based in North Carolina. The Independence Fund’s Mobility program provides catastrophically wounded veterans the chance to regain independence by providing them with all-terrain track chairs.

“Many veterans weren’t just wounded — like Sue, they were catastrophically injured and can no longer experience activities they previously enjoyed,” said Chris Broome, president of Draper, Inc. “Family is important at Draper, and many members of our family are veterans. Raising money for an all-terrain chair for former Corporal Downes is a way we can have an impact on not just on her, but also her entire family.”

This is the second time Draper has raised money for the Independence Fund. The company previously worked with Mermet and other partners to provide funding for two mobility chairs in 2020. Those interested in helping Draper reach their $20,000 goal can visit their website here.