It is a New Year’s idea to help those in need get behind the wheel of a handicapped-outfitted vehicle. Jane Fanslow’s decision to find a home for two vans, a small boat and a motorized wheelchair followed the recent loss of her husband, Larry Eaton. For Fanslow, the price is not as important as putting the equipment to good use.

“I want them to go to a good home. Larry would have really liked that,” said Fanslow, the Clinical Coordinator at Fayette Counseling Center. “I want this equipment to go to people who follow his life philosophy of not letting the grass grow beneath their feet. I want to help out people who are on the move.”

Fanslow said the price is workable for the vans and boat, adding that, like the vans, the boat has been modified to accommodate a wheelchair.

Climbing into one of the vans last week, it was easy to see how accommodating the vans can be.

“These vans are zero effort. That means for people, like Larry, who are quadriplegic and don’t have much muscle mass, the braking and steering is very sensitive and will accommodate their needs. Both Ford Econoline vans are equipped to be driven by either handicapped or able-bodied drivers.”

Fanslow said the wheelchair, though used, will be free to a good home.

“This chair is made for an active lifestyle,” she emphasized.

A quadriplegic after breaking his neck in a diving accident while in high school, Larry Eaton exemplified living life to the fullest, Fanslow said. He passed away Nov. 29.

“Larry hunted, fished, wood-carved, was a certified scuba diver and mentored many young people,” said Fanslow.

Fanslow can be contacted at (404) 502-1897.

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