In Memory Of Donna Lynn Paetzold

Hi, my name is Thera DeSantis. My mother, Donnalynn, passed away one year ago this February. In 1993, my mom suffered a devastating car accident that resulted in a severe traumatic brain injury. After her accident, my mom spent the next 30 years doing physical, occupational, and speech therapy in order to help her regain some of her independence. These years were filled with highs and lows, but what remained consistent was my mom's determination and perseverance through adversity. Through all of her struggles, she never gave up. She made the best of those years, and enjoyed life's simplicities; spending time with family & friends, drinking coke & coffee, going out to dinner, and strolling the boards in North Wildwood.

This year, for my 40th birthday, I am hoping to raise money to help other people with traumatic brain injuries and their families. The money raised will go to the Drucker Brain Injury Center at Moss Rehab, where my mom completed her comprehensive therapy after her accident. Moss is 1 of only 16 federally funded Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems of Care in the US. A portion of the money will also be going to Renew-All Therapy and Wellness, which is a mobile service that provides specialized physical and occupational therapy in the home for patients in the post-acute phase of their neurologic injury. This money will be used for patients whose insurance has run out and who can no longer afford therapeutic services.

I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to read my story and for your generosity!