Diesel Student Karsen Stephens receives track chair from classmates!

Tuesday, September 13th, 2022 was a pretty special day for HPTC Diesel student Karsen Stephens. Karsen was presented a track chair by his classmates and Instructor Jayme Spillman. Karsen suffers from Ataxia which is a rare neurological disease. It affects a person’s ability to walk, talk and use fine motor skills and is progressive.

Diesel instructor Jayme Spillman noticed Stephens’ ability to walk was deteriorating so he visited with the other students about his idea of getting Stephens a track chair. The students agreed it would be a great idea. The students donated some funds to the cause and began fundraising. Word spread and several local businesses and individuals wanted to contribute. A total of $15,000 was raised for the customized track chair for Stephens.