Hello to all - thanks for taking a moment to consider contributing to this fund, which will help support the Eicke family as they begin to make modifications to their home to make it handicap accessible for Dana.

Some of you may already know that in April 2020 Dana was diagnosed with ALS. ALS is a progressive, degenerative, fatal disease that destroys the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement. Through the pandemic, which was challenging enough, Dana tried to navigate her terminal diagnosis at the age of 36. While all of us were complaining about the lines at grocery stores and missing restaurant dinning, Dana was noting the diminishing muscle strength in her dominant hand and trying to teach herself to be left handed - all while in quarantine, away from family, friends, and co-workers. Most of us felt couped up in our own homes and thought about improving our decks or adding pools, while Dana was realizing that soon she would not be able to live in a three-story townhouse as her physical condition continued to devolve.

This fall, Dana, Rich and their two young boys were lucky enough to sell their home and purchase a one-story home, but despite it being one level, it still needs considerable modifications to accommodate her power wheelchair, create a safe handicap accessible bathroom, and to bring laundry facilities from the basement to the first floor so she can maintain some autonomy. Your contribution to this fund would help defer the considerable cost of the Eicke's home modifications and would be appreciated more than I can express.

There is no cure for ALS. Nothing to stop the speed at which Dana's condition worsens. Doctors do not know what causes it and there is no treatment. Her doctors said people typically live 3-5 years after their diagnosis. While I’m hopeful that timeline is greatly askew, it is inevitable that Dana’s life will continue to be severely impacted by ALS. Your contribution would mean helping Dana and her family adjust to a drastically altered life with as much comfort as possible. Please consider donating in any amount feasible to show your support for this brave family as they continue to navigate the most challenging of circumstances.