My friend Ceci returned to Brazil last year to visit her mother Marisa who was experiencing mysterious mobility problems.  After 6 months of doctor and specialist appointments and tests, Ceci's mother received the worst possible news - a diagnosis of ALS, a devastating disease that causes the death of neurons controlling voluntary muscles. They have faced this terrifying disease head on together, knowing that each shared moment would be fleeting, from walks, to wheelchairs to conversations, to solid meals, breathing, and consciousness. Marisa has been gradually losing these essential abilities and receiving 24/7 palliative care from Ceci. 



Because Marisa lives in Brazil and is not a US citizen like her daughter, Ceci must care for her there and is unable to work or receive social benefits to pay the rising medical costs nor sustain her through this family medical emergency. She's the only living relative of her mother and the sole caregiver. I cannot imagine what it's like to carry all this without the support of family and friends, in a place that's no longer home. 

Ceci's financial options are narrowing as the disease and bills progress while savings and credit loans are drying up. I've known her as someone who is always looking to work hard to support herself and make a difference in the world.  If you feel called and able to support them in this difficult time it would ease some of the stress they are enduring amidst the pain, loss, and uncertainty.