Fundraiser for Dana Oosterveen and Family

This Go Fund Me page was created by friends to raise funds and show support for Dana Hill Oosterveen and her family.  Dana was recently diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), which is a progressive neurodegenerative disease. 
Born and raised in Albany, GA, Dana attended Deerfield-Windsor School from kindergarten through the twelfth grade. After graduating from Deerfield, she attended Georgia Southern University where she received her undergraduate degree in Psychology.  She went on to obtain her Masters in Psychology from Valdosta State University.  Dana and her husband, Casey Oosterveen, have two young boys, Charlie, who is 8 and attends Lake Park Elementary, and Wade, who is 4 and attends St. Teresa’s School.
Throughout her career and life in Albany, Dana has formed many relationships and touched many lives. Currently a General Manager in the Albany and Valdosta, GA areas at Necco, a specialized foster care company, Dana has been able to make a tremendous difference in foster kid’s lives on a daily basis.
Approximately 5,600 people in the United States are diagnosed with ALS each year. ALS is physically and emotionally overwhelming for the patient as well as the family. On top of the physical and emotional struggle, there are significant costs, estimated to be as much as $300,000 a year, that can be detrimental to a family’s financial situation. These expenses include medical care, equipment, and home health care costs.  Currently, Dana has received a tracheotomy to assist with breathing, which requires specialized care and training.  The disease has progressed and she is experiencing complete muscle weakness all over her body.  She has been hospitalized for 6 weeks now, but is working hard to get home, where she can be cared for in a comfortable setting with family.  Although she is experiencing the unimaginable, she has maintained her incredible strength and positivity, greeting all of her caregivers with a smile and gracious attitude. 
We are seeking donations to help offset the many expenses they are faced with.  Aside from the hospital bills, their immediate and urgent needs are a handicap accessible van for transport and funds to support around the clock assistive care. We would love your help in supporting Dana and her family so we can all help make a difference in their life. Any amount you can contribute, no matter how small, will collectively go a long way in supporting this dear friend and family.

Thank you.