“Out of difficulties grow miracles.”

– Jean de la Bruyere

Long COVID has done a number on me over the last almost two years but even much more so in the last 9 months adding heavily to the damage that was residual in my body already left over from Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

I am having severe generalized weakness, intense fatigue, balance issues, chronic pain and brain fog, just to hit the “high” points. Basic activities of everyday living have become extremely challenging. I have become a high fall risk and have had several falls, thankfully none resulting so far in serious injury. I use a walker all the time and will soon be fitted for a wheelchair to conserve precious energy and help with fall prevention.

I need help. It’s become too much to ask of my 18-year-old son alone who has been a Godsend.

I have seen some good doctors and therapists of all kinds here in Tupelo. I’ve been trying to do some tutoring for extra income and juggling helping with my mother’s care as much as I’ve been able… mostly just visiting as regularly as possible.

It’s all become too much.

Answers always come, often in ways we couldn’t imagine or even expect. I have precious friends in Atlanta who have graciously offered James and me a place to live.

James will be getting a job and going to work to begin his life taking responsibility for himself as he should, not having the burden of his Mama so much. Most of you know he just graduated high school. He still needs to get his driver’s license. He will have his Dad and our family friends to help him in Atlanta too.

On the medical front, I have found what seems to be a miracle, an infectious disease doctor who is specializing in Long COVID in Atlanta. He has a medical team established of all types of specialties as needed for the many unique and varying collections of symptoms of his many Long COVID patients. He also has experience with GBS patients… very hard to find! I saw him for an extensive medical history and testing the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. His help seems very promising and gives me hope.

The universe has also surprised me by making some Eastern medicine available to me there as well. That feels miraculous too.

All of this is bittersweet. I obviously simply don’t want to be sick any more. I’ve had more than enough. Mama is here in Tupelo suffering from dementia and kidney failure in her nursing home. I’ll be leaving friends and family. This has been a tough time and a very big decision, but I have peace with relocating. I have so many dear friends close by in the Atlanta area even in addition to those who are so lovingly taking us into their home to live.

I have hope I can get better there.

I will be safer.

This move also has really good potential opportunities for my special needs young adult son.

I think I have to do this, but the final obstacle is finances. I will have to pay for moving expenses and an extra month’s rent as an early lease termination fee. Our lease isn’t up until September, and I just can’t wait that much longer to relocate.

This is where you and GoFundMe come in.

I first wanted to update everyone as to our goings on… and I am also humbly asking for any amount you are able to share with me to help make this happen. Once I get there, even on my limited disability income, I should be able to pay my bills and I will be able to get my medical care. No amount is too small and ALL gifts are truly received with great humility and tremendous gratefulness. Thank you.

We also covet your prayers as we transition to our new home.

It is my faith and belief that people are truly so good and God, however one understands God, is nothing less than absolute love. Thank you for being my people, and thank you for all of your love.