My name is Kristen, but most know me as Moon. For three years, I have been getting sicker with no answers while my life and health vanished. We finally have an answer, and it is a terrifying one: I have been diagnosed with an ultra-rare genetic disorder called Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (PI*FZ phenotype). I am the 1 in 10,000—someone whose body lacks the "shield" protein to stop its own immune system from attacking its organs. 

A Body Under Constant Attack:

My condition has reached a state of Systemic Failure. My most recent tests have confirmed:

• Autoimmune Crisis & Blood Loss: I have tested positive for autoimmune markers while simultaneously lacking enough red blood cells to carry oxygen. 

• Dangerous Deficiencies: My Vitamin B12 and sodium levels are crashing (Hyponatremia), causing "brain fog" and blurry vision.

• Heart & Vascular Emergency: I am experiencing electrical delays in my heart and have developed DVT (blood clots). 

• Organ Stress: My kidneys are leaking both blood and protein into my urine, a sign of severe inflammation and medical renal disease.

An Official "Dire Need":

My situation is so critical that Legal Aid has stepped in, and my disability case is officially flagged as "Dire Need". While we fight for the Medicaid I desperately need, the reality is that I am personally responsible for 25% of my healthcare costs. For a disease that requires weekly life-saving infusions, this is an impossible burden. 

The Heartbreaking Reality:

My husband works tirelessly, but we have reached the end of our resources. We are a month behind on rent and utilities, often going without food so we can keep our home. To survive this mystery, I have sold almost everything of value—my violin, my guitar, and our heirlooms. If it weren't for the Humane Shelter in Toccoa, our dogs wouldn't even have food. 

The Caretaker’s Burden:

• Family Support: I am the full-time caretaker for my sister, who has intellectual developmental delays. I am also a mother and a young grandmother. 

• Family Tragedy: I lost my father tragically last year and his estate is still in probate. My stepfather is currently battling cancer (one lung removed) while he and my mom raise triplets. They want to help, but they have nothing left to give. 

We are raising funds for:

• My 25% Healthcare Responsibility: To cover the astronomical costs of transfusions and specialists.

• Housing, Food, & Utility Emergency: To stop the eviction and keep the lights on.

• Vehicle Repair & Travel: To fix our car so I can get to the Emory specialists who can save my life.

I have spent my life as a lyricist and wildlife rehabber, nursing orphaned animals and giving a voice to the voiceless through my music. Now, I am asking for a "hand up" so I can stay here for my son, my grandchildren, and my sister. 

Please, help me stay in the fight. If you can’t donate, your share is a lifeline.

With love and gratitude,

Moon