The gift of a car for Christmas will make one man's life a whole lot easier. Sean Lynn, wheelchair-bound since a surgery two years ago, will be able to spend more time with his kids, and is thinking of returning to school.
Lynn was the winner of a new-looking 2002 Nissan Sentra donated by Abbotsford Nissan, Fix Auto, Hub International, and the News. This is the eighth annual Christmas car giveaway for Fix Auto.
Lynn was "very overwhelmed and blessed" at the gift.
"It's made an amazing impact…This car is going to be amazing to provide more access to my kids," he said.
He loves the new car, and was especially thrilled at the black colour, which fits his style.
Lynn had surgery two years ago to correct a spinal injury from a collision in 1997. The surgery left him unable to walk.
"(Lynn) has shown indomitable spirit and strength and courage facing the devastating changes in his life," said Patrick Greenwood, one of the three people that nominated him for the car giveaway.
Before the surgery, Lynn was a care worker with Bethesda Christian Association for 14 years, helping people with disabilities. With the freedom of a car, he is thinking of moving back to Abbotsford, his hometown and where his daughter and son reside. He has had to be in Vancouver for the past few years to remain near his rehabilitation hospital. Lynn also wants to return to school for seminary studies.
Abbotsford Nissan and Fix Auto gave the Sentra a full mechanical check, detailing and repainting. Hub International provided $1,000 towards car insurance.
"At Fix Auto, we have been blessed with success and this is a way to give back to the community," said regional manager Ben Alleckna. "It's really exciting we found the right person."
Organizers received over 50 nomination letters and made their selection based on need, but also on the recipient's ability to maintain the vehicle.
Lynn's car still needs to be modified to a hand control system, so that Lynn can fully operate it without using his legs. Saint Matthew's Anglican Church is fundraising to cover the approximate $5,000 cost and hopes to have the work done in early 2014.
"We're well underway with that. I'm hoping for a few weeks, maybe months (to complete the modifications). But it shouldn't be too long," said rector Rev. Mike Stewart, who also nominated Lynn for the prize.
Those wishing to help with the modifications can donate a cheque made out to Saint Matthew's Anglican Church (at 2087 McMillan Road, at Grace Church), designated to Sean Lynn.