State and local leaders were in Bridgeport Saturday to kick off a fundraising effort for a disabled woman who dreams of living an independent life.

Amber Reese, 24, says her dream has always been to be a more independent person. The Central High School graduate has cerebral palsy and has used a wheelchair all of her life.

She says public transportation can be a hit-and-miss proposition, and wants to own a wheelchair-accessible van so she can go where she wants, when she wants, like any other person.

Reese says she has started a fundraising campaign to gather enough donations to buy a van.