A Noblesville family is currently locked in an uneasy dispute with their homeowner's association (HOA) regarding the installation of a wheelchair ramp for their son Corban Phillips, a 17-year-old quadriplegic. Corban's needs for independent mobility have become critical following a trampoline accident in August 2024 which resulted in paralysis. The family's contractor has put forth a design for a safe wheelchair ramp at their new home, yet the HOA has not approved the plan, proposing an alternative that has been deemed unsafe by the contractor, as reported by WTHR.
Despite the HOA's resistance, the Phillips family is not without support. According to a FOX59 report, their son Corban, has regained some independence, including the ability to drive a customized van. The family has voiced their plight, with April Phillips pointing out the frustrating reality that, "we're so much more worried about aesthetics of a property" at the cost of her son's accessibility. This sentiment echoes as a stark reminder of the often skewed priorities that govern our living spaces.
A meeting with the Morse Pointe community manager, Steven Follis, offered little resolution. Follis stated that they "haven't denied a ramp," but also mentioned that the proposed design is still under review, which was detailed in an interview with 13News. The ongoing review leaves the Phillips family in a limbo, unable to move forward with constructing the necessary addition to their home.
In a concerning display of opposition, despite a community that ostensibly champions the welfare of its members, the struggle for the Phillips family continues, as highlighted by WISHTV. The Phillips are preparing to move, to a new home and yet the safe installation of their son's wheelchair ramp remains uncertain, as their plans must first clear the hurdle of HOA approval.
