Brighten Your Day

Marine Purchases HandiCap Van for Paralyzed Police Officer

January 16, 2013

Ron Villenave and his wife purchased a brand new wheelchair accessible van for a paralyzed police officer in Portland, Oregon.

Officer Paul Meyer was participating in a police training program this past fall when a tree fell on his body leaving him partially paralyzed.

Villenave was watching the local news and remembered Officer Meyer from a few years back when he was pulled over for a routine traffic stop. The 5 minute conversation between the two was enough for Villenave to know he was going to help.

"During that brief meeting he was just a super nice guy," said Villenave. "When you look in somebody's eyes, and you can see care, that says a lot."

Villenave is a retired U.S. Marine and feels he can relate to Meyer's situation. Serving tours in Afghanistan, Villenave was shot three times.

The van is a brand new 2013 Toyota Sienna which costs around $40,000. It is customized to allow Meyer to drive the vehicle on his own, with space for his wheelchair.

The two plan on meeting once Meyer has a chance to spend some time with his family. Meyer was just released from the hospital.