Help Mermaid Alexea make waves @ Tiffin Academy

Hello, my name is Lynne and I'm a mermom to 25 yo Alexea. Alexea is disabled thanks to an unlucky combination of conditions including EDS (Ehler Danlos Syndrome), POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), ME/CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis/ chronic fatigue syndrome) and several others. The onset and diagnosis of these conditions didn't occur until halfway through her high school career, where she was the typical busy bee- marching band, cheerleading, track, etc. After spending the last two years in and out of hospitals, visiting specialists throughout Ohio and other nearby states, she struggled to come to terms with what her life would look like after graduation. Frequent fainting spells meant that she couldn't get a driver's license and going away to her first choice of schools (Savannah College of Art & Design) was not recommended by her doctors. Her anxiety and mental health were hit hard and we worked through it all to find a way to help her blossom.

She took solace in the only cardio that works for her health (swimming) and her love of giving back to become Mermaid Alexea. She helped champion literacy through numerous outreach events at the Birchard Public Library and its 4 branches during their Oceans of Possibilities summer reading program, in addition to numerous other events. She continued with work with physical therapists and her doctors for years to find a job that would work within her abilities. She is a tremendous artist (especially custom pet portraits), but artwork takes a great deal of time and can be difficult on her hands.

Her love of beauty and her talent with art led her into nail design. She's been doing her own nails for years so it seemed like a natural fit. After a recent move to a different city, we discovered that there was a nail tech school (Tiffin Academy of Hair Design) that would allow her to complete her license in just a few months. The attendance requirement would be a big task, since she's unable to do a traditional full-time schedule. We're working closely with several of her doctors to minimize the impact on her health. Once she is licensed, she'll be able to set her own hours to keep herself as healthy as possible.

Unfortunately, the nail tech classes do not meet the standards for traditional financial aid, so we're in the process of trying to fundraise for the tuition. Since Alexea's pain medication is not covered by insurance, it is challenge to set aside large amounts of money. Any help that can be given would be greatly appreciated- funds will go toward tuition and supplies!