My name is Melanie Vincent and I and Jan Hobbs are trying to raise money to help our friend, Nerissa Feldman, who is facing serious financial worries due to serious medical issues.

About two and a half years ago, Nerissa began experiencing severe nerve pain in her right foot, mostly at night. It quickly progressed to both feet and started affecting her during the day as well. After an initial misdiagnosis and months of searching, she was finally able to see a neurologist who diagnosed her with idiopathic (non-diabetic) peripheral neuropathy in both lower limbs. Unfortunately, it is aggressive and currently has no known cause.

Nerissa has already lost feeling in her right foot up to the ankle, as well as in parts of her left foot. Standing or walking for more than a few minutes is no longer possible, and her doctors have advised her to prepare for full-time wheelchair use within the very near future.

This extremely painful and debilitating condition has taken away her ability to continue working in her chosen career, which was her primary source of income. She is now on disability, but it’s below the poverty line, and medical expenses, equipment, and daily needs have quickly exhausted her savings.

We are raising funds to help Nerissa maintain as much independence and mobility as possible. Donations will go toward a motorized wheelchair suitable for full time use, batteries, a vehicle hitch and lift (including installation), and a wheelchair-accessible ramp for her home.

Any support—whether through donations or sharing this fundraiser—means so much and will make a real difference in helping Nerissa navigate this next chapter safely and with dignity.