Sixteen-year-old Lulu Gribbin of Alabama is reclaiming her independence from behind the wheel of a brand-new 2025 Buick Envista Avenir. The vehicle was gifted by local dealer Central Alabama Buick GMC and is specially modified to accommodate Lulu’s needs following a devastating shark attack in 2024 that resulted in the loss of her left hand and right leg. Now, Lulu is helping others face adversity through the Lulu Strong Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to improving accessibility through limb-loss technology.
Lulu’s life was turned upside down last June while wading off the coast of the Florida Panhandle. However, a year after the shark attack, Lulu is now turning tragedy into opportunity, inspiring others through her resilience.
With her new driver’s license in hand, the Buick Envista marks a major milestone in Lulu’s path to recovery. The crossover was also fitted with key adaptations that enable Lulu to safely drive her new Buick.
“I am so grateful that they were able to give me this amazing and beautiful car and I cannot wait to drive it with the left foot accelerator and the knob on the wheel, which are key adaptations for me to be able to drive,” Lulu said upon receiving her new Buick. “From the bottom of my heart, I’m grateful and so thankful that they were able to give me this car and it will always be a memory for me that I will cherish forever.”
“I literally drive it everywhere,” Lulu says, praising the exterior styling and interior layout. She also likes the power moonroof.
“I open it every day and just let my hair blow in the wind,” Lulu says.
Lulu’s new Buick Envista is also equipped with an 11-inch infotainment screen, wireless smartphone charging, and a range of advanced technology aimed at safety and convenience, such as lane keeping assist with lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and rain-sensing wipers.
Comments
What did the shark get???
Obviously, it wasn’t your brain. Oh, wait you never had one
Man, these new Buicks cost an arm and a leg.
Bless you Lulu and thank you Central Alabama Buick GMC !
Someone at GM is on the ball, and looking for opportunities to help. The left foot accelerator modification is a nice thoughtful touch.
Now that Lulu has wheels, I hope she’s able to go out a get a hold of and epic life. Carpe Diem!
Correction:
Now that Lulu has wheels, I hope she’s able to go out and have an epic life. Carpe Diem!
What a beautiful act of kindness. LULU will go on to live a great life, get married and have a family of her own one day. This gift of wheels represents her renewed freedom.