SAN ANTONIO-- Alamo Mobility sells and rents customizes vans to help the disabled and for next to nothing wounded warriors, like Augustine Pena, can get special deal to help them get around town.
Pena came home safety from service in Iraq. However, in November 2010, the 23 year old was hit and paralyzed by a drunk driver while helping someone change a flat tire in St. Louis.
He desperately needs transportation but can’t afford to buy a customized van equipped to hold his wheelchair.
Since few people know about the deal, the owner of Alamo Mobility said Pena’s family has used the rental van quite often.
"It's called the Wounded Warrior Wagon and we rent it out for one dollar,” said Lainie Boles Simpson.
Her father, Colonel Powell Martin Smith, open the San Antonio business. Simpson said her dad felt a great need to help military families dealing with disabilities.
Augie Pena, is paralyzed with some movement is his upper body.
He nearly died in the drunk driving accident. Doctors first thought he might not recover enough to talk or move at all.
"I really don't have a lot to be upset about in life. I've already lived a great life," said the wounded warrior.
His sister, Alyssa Kline named her 16 month old son Augie. The young mother still has a tough time dealing with her brother's injuries.
"There are still times where I believe he's gonna pick up his fork and eat like the rest of us or he's gonna come out of bed and start walking," said Kline.
Without full benefits from the military, life is also financially challenging. Augie’s mother cares for him but they need to a vehicle of their own.
Operation Finally Home is helping the wounded vet get a mortgage free home later this year.
According to Alyssa, Alamo Mobility told the family about a contest offering free custom vans to three lucky winners.
Although he entered the contest, Augie didn't win.
His spirits remain high and his sister has many wishes for him.
"Mostly, that he lives a fulfilling life,” she said while wiping away tears.
Alyssa believes life will be a bit easier when her brother finds a vehicle and move on to his new home which will be designed to meet his disability needs.
For now, the family is thankful for help from Alamo Mobility for temporary use of the rental van parked outside.
Alyssa Kline has set up a fundraising account for her brother at Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union.
