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Thieves Steal Critical Lifeline For Disabled Teenager In Bucks County

FALLS Twp., Pa. (CBS) -- The search is on for a specially equipped van stolen from a driveway in Falls Township, Bucks County.

Dave Schilling always taught his boys to stay strong. So it's not often the father of four boys gets emotional. That is until he talks about his 13-year-old David.

"Quite active, I'm ready to break down, it's tough, I'm sorry," Schilling said.

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David was born with Cerebral Palsy. He relies on his wheelchair to get around, but this 13-year-old doesn't let that minor detail get in his way, even participating in sports with his brothers including his twin, Dylan.

Schilling explained, "David's his power. David comes out to every event to provide him with support in every which way."

That's why this family is heartbroken. The minivan they bought to take David around was stolen right from their driveway. The minivan was equipped with a power wheelchair lift.

"Previously, I had a manual lift that was just very inconvenient for us as a family for when I'm not around. My wife said there's no way I can pick that up so we needed the power lift gate," Schilling said.

It's described as a 1994 Chevy Astro Van with a Pennsylvania tag: HNV 2899. It's white in color with green pinstripes.

"If it gives him that extra mile in terms of help him out and make him happier in life, this is what I want. It's not the best looking appearance-wise, but dollars and cents, it's very valuable for me, but not just for me, my son, David," Schilling added.

For that, the family calls the stolen van, priceless and prays it will be returned.

In the meantime, Schilling's boss with Citizens Public Adjusters is offering a $1,000 reward for anyone with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible.

Falls Township Police are investigating.

Reported by Elizabeth Hur, CBS 3

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