Our beloved, vibrant, and multi-talented friend has been diagnosed with ALS, AKA Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS is a progressive condition that affects the nerve cells that control movement - over time it impacts walking, speaking, and breathing. (https://www.als.org/understanding-als)

We are devastated and heartbroken by this news. Heather is such a force and brings us into her joyful orbit with care and kindness. She has worked hard and dedicated her life to her craft as an opera singer and shared her talents and experience with her students, to whom she is fully devoted.

Heather and her husband, Mike, are madly in love. They are a fairy tale true love match and have a beautiful 4-year old boy, Declan (Duckling). Together as a family, they are active in their Wichita community, working hard to build community and show up for their neighbors.

There is currently no cure for ALS and available treatments only help to slow the progression. Everyone’s journey with ALS is different, but an ALS diagnosis forces everyone and their loved ones on an uncertain journey that is demanding financially, spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Please help support the Redondo family as they navigate the demands of this diagnosis and prepare for a long journey of care and support.

Examples of life expenses for someone with ALS:

- Significant loss of income (Heather cannot continue to work past the current school year, and will experience a 60% decrease in pay when she starts receiving disability income.)

- Converting car into a handbrake system

- Wheelchair / walker accessibility renovations

- Other ALS equipment needs

- House cleaning support

- Emotional support (professional counseling for Heather and family)

-Medication (some current treatments are not covered by insurance) and medical bills

-Childcare assistance (help with daycare expenses)

- Increased spending on gas and travel for doctor and specialist appointments.

For more information about the financial burdens of ALS visit: https://www.als.org/stories-news/als-care-costs-over-47000-first-year-als-association-led-study-shows

Heather is resilient and determined, and our support will help reinforce her strengths and spirit for life.