When Adeline “Addie” first connected with Tucker’s House, she and her mom were simply trying to survive. Addie, who uses a wheelchair and feeding tube, was living in a converted basement garage—long, narrow, and never designed for mobility or medical equipment. The upstairs of her home was completely inaccessible, and the only way she could leave the house was by ambulance.
“We were in a really desperate situation,” she shared. “Tucker’s House changed my entire life.”
What Tucker’s House Does
Tucker’s House is a Middle Tennessee nonprofit that partners with families of children and young adults with disabilities (up to age 21) to make their homes safer and more accessible. Program Director Kayla Tortay oversees each project, helping families identify what they need most—ramps, bathroom remodels, wider doors, flooring changes, and more.
Families can begin by visiting the Tucker’s House website and filling out a short application. From there, Kayla reaches out to determine eligibility and next steps.
A Home Transformed
For Addie, the modifications were life-changing. Tucker’s House and its partners:
- Built a driveway and concrete ramp so she can safely enter and exit her home
- Created an accessible bathroom with a roll-in shower, roll-under sink, and reachable storage
- Installed an independent lift system so she can transfer without assistance
- Moved her to a more functional space on the same level as her mom
- Added an art studio and twinkle lights—touches that made the space feel truly hers
After five years of being mostly confined to bed, Addie can now get up independently, shower, spend time outdoors, and even walk the family dog. Her physical therapist has noticed increased muscle tone. Her mom—who shares the same genetic condition—is in less pain and able to help without risking injury.
Community, Understanding, and Hope
What meant most to Addie wasn’t just the construction—it was the people. Volunteers filled the street to help move furniture and plant flowers. Kayla advocated fiercely for Addie’s needs, protected the art studio that brings her joy, and even answered late-night calls when health concerns arose.
As both a program director and a special needs parent, Kayla understands the invisible weight families carry. Tucker’s House steps into that gap—lifting burdens, restoring dignity, and proving that when a home becomes accessible, life opens up in beautiful and unexpected ways.
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