Imagine waking up one day and realizing your mobility has changed dramatically. For Hillary, a professional athlete accustomed to strength and independence, this became her reality after a life-changing accident in Norway in 2017.
“I thought independence meant doing everything on my own,” Hillary shared. “But when I couldn’t walk or rely on my body, I realized that true independence comes from the people and community around you.”
During her recovery, everyday tasks such as getting to work, attending physical therapy, and grocery shopping became major challenges. That’s when Via Mobility Services stepped in. Each ride wasn’t just transportation; it was a bridge to work, therapy, social connections, and the life she wanted to continue living.
“At first, I felt embarrassed to ask for help,” Hillary recalled. “But the drivers were kind, patient, and reliable. They reminded me that asking for help isn’t weakness, it’s strength. Via Mobility Services allowed me to focus on what I could do, not what I couldn’t.”
At Via Mobility Services, we see every day how small, consistent, caring actions can transform someone’s life. Helping Hillary get to a doctor’s appointment or a physical therapy session wasn’t just about logistics; it was about restoring confidence, independence, and dignity.
Thanks to Via Mobility Services, Hillary regained more than mobility. She regained purpose and a place in her community. When she faced additional injuries in 2023, she could have become isolated. Instead, the familiarity and reliability of Via Mobility Services provided reassurance and continuity, helping her stay active by teaching, mentoring students, attending appointments, and remaining connected to the community she loves.
“There’s no better way to understand the value of mobility than to experience life without it. We’re all reliant on community,” Hillary reflected. “Acts of kindness and giving back are proven ways to boost connection and happiness. Supporting organizations like Via Mobility Services is one meaningful way to do that.”
Hillary’s story is not just about recovery. It’s about resilience and the power of community. “Strength isn’t just about doing it alone,” she said. “It’s about being part of a community that lifts you up when life knocks you down.”
Even beyond her daily life, Hillary continues to embrace challenges with courage and determination. When asked about her dream race, she said:
“Oh, that’s hard! I’ve been to so many amazing places. But I’d pick Nolan’s 14 in Colorado, linking fourteen 14ers in the Sawatch Range. It’s epic, high altitude, and rugged. I’d love to do that.”
And if her running shoes could tell a story, they’d say:
“They’d tell you I’m dedicated. I push myself because I love running and being in the mountains. It’s all for the love of movement and discovering what the body can do.”
Watch Hillary’s Video: You can challenge the impossible | Hillary Allen | TEDxCU
Read the full Daily Camera feature: “Hillary Allen’s Survival Story Was Against ‘All Odds’”
Hillary’s journey is a powerful testament to the work we do at Via Mobility Services. Mobility isn’t just transportation; it’s independence, dignity, and connection. Every ride, every trip, and every act of support helps people stay engaged in their communities, pursue their passions, and reclaim their lives.
“Via Mobility Services helped me focus on what I could do. I could ask for help to get to where I needed to be, and in doing that, I stayed part of my community,” Hillary said.
This Colorado Gives Day, your support helps individuals, including Hillary, move freely, confidently, and independently. Every gift strengthens the connections that make our communities inclusive, compassionate, and resilient.
Your gift to Via Mobility Services ensures that older adults and people with disabilities can live independently, stay connected, and move with dignity.
Donate Today, Make a Difference, One Ride at a Time!
Thank You to Our Matching Supporters
Thank you to The Herbert and Judy Paige Family Foundation, Platt Valley Medical Center, and Good Samaritan Medical Center for making a powerful impact with their Colorado Gives Day donation match. Together, we’re helping people live with independence and stay engaged in their communities.
