Help Amanda Heal

 My name is Alexis Shropshire. If I could take a moment of your time, I would like to introduce you to one of my very best friends. I am pretty sure she is my true soul sister! This is Mandi Fessler! 
Mandi is 38 and has been battling Behcet's, a very rare autoimmune disease that we both have been diagnosed with, but Mandi has already been fighting this disease for 15 years!  Mandi has always been my confidant, my courage, my soul sister. Because of her, I was able to put myself back out into the world again. 

Right now, my heart is breaking because my friend, who is always giving/ doing for others, is suffering with very large and extremely painful wounds (Behcet's ulcers) on a majority of her extremities. I have added a few pictures of her wounds, and although I understand that some of these pictures may be a little difficult for some to look at, but it is the reality of what we face with this disease. She will be going to UIC hospital on 10/24 to be admitted because if she is unable to get the best care, she could lose her leg. 
I am starting this account to assist Mandi with financial needs for all wound care supplies, meds/ supplements, meal replacement shakes and supplement drinks that she must drink to aid in healing, meals for the two of them, Dr. visits, and any other accruing debts so that she can focus on healing. Also, Amazon gift cards will be greatly appreciated as she can buy wound care supplies in bulk much cheaper, and books to read to pass the time. This is a very scary and difficult time for her. 
Mandi has spent her life helping others. She is the Hotline Coordinator for the American Behcet's Disease Association, writes the ABDA newsletters. and single-handedly started a successful support group on Facebook for people with Behcet's to connect with one another. She is a true inspiration.
Thank you in advance for any assistance you can provide and God Bless you all!


Behcet’s disease (BD) is a rare autoimmune disease, 
 a form of vascular is with no cure. It affects everyone differently.  Mandi has what is called refractory BD- meaning that she hasn’t ever experienced a remission and tends to display symptoms every day.  Most meds that may work for others with Bd do not work for her. Some of you may know that she devotes her time, even when she isn’t feeling well, to help many others with this illness. She has a doctorate in clinical psychology but has been unable to work since she got her degree as a result of this illness.