Donation protected
Video from year 2023.
Adria, also known by her nickname Bella, suffers from MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY and is challenged by a Rare
Genetic Mutation called IRF2BPL. This is Muscular Dystrophy https://muscle.ca
Bella is 32 years old now. This disease has stolen and her ability to walk and talk, as well as prohibiting the use of her arms and hands. She requires 24-hour care. The discovery of this rare genetic mutation was given 3 years ago, following its initial slow progression over 18 years.
Bella suffers from EXTREME ataxia (loss of muscle control) and often gets severe,
painful muscle spasms. One small blessing for this pain comes in Botox treatments that
she receives every 4 months. The treatment provides alleviation toward the tightness
and stiffening of her muscles and is coupled with consistent physiotherapy for
momentum. She benefits from massage / physio 2 times per week from a Licensed
Therapist who comes into her home. The cost for this is approximately $1000.00 per
month.
Many aspects of her life bring Bella deep joy, such as outings and group involvement.
She attends a program https://www.harmonyplace.on.ca Harmony Place Support Services where she enjoys social time with others as well as music therapy, art and outings. The cost per month is $675.00 for 2 days each week for a 4-week period.
The total cost per month for these two items is approximately $1800.00 per month.
We are grateful to be included in some Government funding, yet it is simply insufficient
to meet her support. The total provided per year is $8000.00 and with all realistic expenses, this amount is exhausted after 4 months. We need to maintain essential treatments for her ongoing care.
I would like to also hire a Support Worker to take her to an Adaptive Program run by the City of Toronto Parks & Recreation. The program itself is free of cost and provides her
with social interaction inclusive programming. The cost for a support worker is typically $20-$25.00 per hour. Currently, as her Mother, I provide support and direct care 5 days a week as well as all her medical appointments, vendors, all her outings and so much
more so that we can enjoy life together!
We also will be having a live fundraising event SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4TH, 2025 @
the Duke Toronto this year is a JAM NIGHT! Music Entertainment as we did last year. We raised
$7000.00 last year, which was amazing! These funds were used in addition to the
Government portion. We now need to bridge the gap again until next April 2025 when
the Government portion is once again available.
I am asking for YOUR support to continue to get Bella's needed services and allow her
a sufficient quality of life that keeps it enjoyable for her incredibly special circumstances.
Please consider funding Bella!
ALTERNATIVE to Donate please contact me FB messenger Elyse Douglas
THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!!!
Elyse Mama Bear Warrior!
Toronto, Ontario Canada
Organizer
Elyse Douglas
Organizer
Scarborough, ON