(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) – For 29-year-old Travis Goldberg, freedom has always come on four wheels. But after a recent accident, that freedom was taken away. His mobility van, essential for getting around and staying connected with the world, was hit from the side and severely damaged by another driver.
Travis lives with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a rare and progressive disease, and has faced countless challenges with determination. Now, The Simi Valley community is coming together to help him replace his van and regain his independence.
Travis’s journey has been anything but easy. Symptoms of DMD appeared in childhood, leading to a gradual loss of mobility. By age 12, he could no longer walk and began relying on a power wheelchair. Despite these challenges, Travis has never let his condition define him. He’s focused on living life fully and with meaning, even in the face of daunting obstacles.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy affects approximately one in every 3,000 male children. While advancements in care have extended life expectancy, the condition remains challenging and life-limiting. Despite this, Travis maintains a positive outlook on life.
“Even though my body doesn’t always cooperate, I focus on what I can still do,” Travis says.
The recent loss of his van has made life more difficult. Without it, Travis is unable to visit friends and family, attend events, or travel more than a few blocks from home.
In response to the accident, residents of Simi Valley have rallied. On Thursday, November 21, Mission Burrito will host a fundraiser to help replace the van. The event is organized as a family-friendly evening of fun in support of a neighbor in need.
What to Expect at the Event:
- Meet Travis Goldberg
- Simi Valley Firefighters
- SWAT Bearcat Truck
- Police K9 Demonstration
- ‘Raven’ the Magician
How You Can Help
The goal is simple: raise money toward the replacement of Travis’s wheelchair-accessible van and help him regain his freedom.
Here’s how you can contribute:
- Attend the Event: Join the fundraiser at Mission Burrito (2161 Tapo St., Simi Valley) on November 21.
- Donate: Contributions of any size are welcome. Every dollar helps Travis get closer to a new van.
- Spread the Word: Share Travis’s story with your friends and family to help expand the reach of this effort.
Let’s come together as a community to support Travis and remind him of the kindness and strength that Simi Valley has to offer. Whether you attend, donate, or simply share his story, your help will make a meaningful difference. Together, we can get Travis back on the road to independence.
