Help Kim O’Malley Fight Against A Rare Brain Disease

My name is Betsy Dine and I’m asking you to Help Support Kim O’Malley in Her Fight Against a Rare Disease

Life can change in an instant, and for our dear friend, that moment came with a devastating possibility of a diagnosis, either Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) or Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), both cruel and relentless neurodegenerative brain diseases. Either of these conditions will slowly take away the abilities we all take for granted – speech, movement, memory – but not our friend’s incredible will to fight. Each day presents new challenges, from basic tasks becoming insurmountable to the fear of what tomorrow may bring. Yet, in the face of this battle, one thing remains clear: the power of community, love, and support can make all the difference. Our friend needs the help of others to navigate this disease, access critical medical care, and hold onto the dream of living a longer, fuller life. No one should have to fight alone, together, we can be the strength she needs in this unimaginable journey.

Kim has always been a fighter- A hardworking, independent woman who never hesitated to help others. Now, she is facing the battle of her life.

Kim is currently between two devastating diagnoses:

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) or Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). Both are rare, degenerative neurological diseases that have no cure and progressively rob a person of their ability to move, speak, swallow, and care for themselves.

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)

This disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, balance, vision, speech, and cognition function. It often begins with unexplained falls, stiffness, and difficulty controlling eye movements, making even simple tasks like walking or reading nearly impossible. Over time, it can severely impact speech and swallowing, leaving those diagnosed unable to communicate their thoughts and needs. It is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s Disease but progresses more rapidly and has distinct symptoms, making everyday tasks impossible. While no cure exists, therapies like physical, speech, and occupational therapies, and medications for symptom management can help improve her quality of life. PSP symptoms worsen over time, usually within 5-10 years of onset.

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)

MSA, on the other hand, is an even more complex and unpredictable disease, attacking multiple systems in the body. It can present with symptoms similar to Parkinson’s Disease, but it progresses much faster, leading to profound difficulties with movement, blood pressure regulation, bladder control, and breathing. The loss of independence happens quickly, with no known cure or way to slow its progression.

For our friend, facing either of these diagnoses is not just about battling a disease – it’s about fighting for more time with her children and grandchildren, Justin (Kristina) Oliver and Jack), Shannon (Tom) Teddy, Georgie, and Lucy), and Brendan (Fiancé Ashley). They are her reasons to keep pushing forward, to fight through uncertainty, and to hold onto every moment she has left. But she cannot do this alone. She needs a community of support to help her access critical care, navigate daily challenges, and ensure that she is surrounded by love and strength on this unimaginable journey. Now, more than ever, she needs people to stand beside her, to help fight this battle with her, and to help her hold onto the hope of more time with those she loves most.

Kim’s future remains uncertain, and unfortunately, she is no longer able to work due to the neurodegenerative disease that she is awaiting a diagnosis. Funds raised will help cover expenses that include (but are not limited to) hospital bills, follow-up doctor appointments, various therapies, home health care, and daily caregiving. As her condition progresses, she will require ongoing care and support to maintain her quality of life. These funds will also assist with securing full-time in-home care, or a supportive living environment (assisted living) to ensure she remains safe and well cared for.

Your support means the world to her and her family at this difficult and devastating time.