Dezi Needs Us: MS and Baby on the Way

Help a Young Mom with MS Prepare for Baby

Hello everyone,

I’m reaching out on behalf of a courageous 24-year-old woman who is currently 34.5 weeks pregnant and bravely battling Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Dementia. Her journey has been anything but easy. Before her world was turned upside down, Dezi obtained her Master's degree. She was working and making her impact in the world when she began having complications. This led to many diagnoses, including a rare blood disorder (Beta Zero Thalassemia), MS, Dementia, and Optic Neuritis (a complication of MS that can potentially lead to her losing her eyesight). Throughout all of her treatments, her pregnancy somehow went unnoticed until 28 weeks! Due to the effects of MS and the challenges of pregnancy, she requires full-time care and support — something her amazing mother has stepped up to provide, even if it means taking unpaid time off work. This also requires her to be monitored closely and spending a lot of time at Duke due to the risk of her pregnancy.

This family is doing everything they can to stay strong and positive, but the financial strain is growing. Between medical appointments, preparing for the baby’s arrival, and everyday living costs, they are in need of a little extra support from the community.

We are raising funds to help cover:

• Medical expenses and treatments related to MS and pregnancy

• Baby essentials (diapers, clothes, crib, etc.)

• Lost income while her mom cares for her

• Transportation and caregiving costs

Any donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page to help spread the word. We are also taking donations for supplies, clothes, and anything else that could help us bring baby Le’ here as smoothly as possible.