Living with MS and Autism

I know I’m gonna take heat for this but it will be worth it Many of u already know my friend Lissette. For those of u that don’t, let me introduce u. She is one of the most kindhearted, selfless, strong, inspirational people I know. Many years ago, her son was diagnosed with Autism. Lissette became and remains his biggest advocate. Although he is non-verbal, it is because of Lissette’s perseverance, fighting with the BOE, implementing many different behavioral therapies, educating herself on Autism, and never giving up, that Vincent is able to communicate in many different ways and most recently graduated from 8th grade. That is not to say that things are smooth sailing. Vincent continues to have melt downs and struggles with communication; however he has come a long way. As if this was not enough for a parent to deal with, Lissette herself was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. MS causes nerve damage and widespread pain and weakness caused by lesions on the brain and spinal cord. Because Lissette was so busy caring for her son, she put herself on the back burner and by the time she was diagnosed, she had permanent holes in her spine. Lissette struggles not only to walk but to do many daily tasks, which we all take for granted. Yet this hasn’t stopped her. She continues to be her son’s biggest advocate and still manages to run a household. Even if it takes one step at a time up to the 3rd floor to put away the laundry, she keeps on going. Lissette rarely thinks of herself and is always there for anyone having an issue. Anyone who knows her looks to her for advice. She is often the person who keeps me grounded daily. She is so selfless and her faith in God hasn’t wavered. She never complains and asks for nothing...Until recently. See, Lissette wants to be able to go out with her son to the park. Or take a walk with him and his therapists around the block. Or take a ride to the mall. Or do any of the things we do on a daily basis with our kids and take for granted. Due to them both struggling with their own respective diagnoses, most of the time, if Vincent is able to get out, Lissette is not and vice versa. Her insurance provided her with a scooter a few years ago and that helped for a while, but the scooter is bulky and extremely heavy (even for myself to lift), which makes it hard to take it anywhere. It is actually more trouble than it is worth. But it is all the insurance will allow. We recently found a scooter that would help Lissette struggle just a little less. It is a portable, light weight scooter that she would have no problem taking anywhere. A scooter which would enable her to spend more time with her son, in a setting outside of the home, just like we all do, without even giving it a 2nd thought. The issue is that it costs $2,299.00 and is not covered by insurance. Often times, Lissette is made to celebrate her sons accomplishments through pictures or videos because it’s hard for her to be there. If I had the money, believe me, she would have it already. I can’t think of anyone who deserves it more, which is why I’m starting this page. Every penny Lissette and her husband have, goes towards services for their son. And I want to be able to give Lissette something for herself. Something that would provide her with more opportunities. Please consider a small donation. Any amount would help. Let’s get Lissette and Vincent some of the quality time they deserve together. If u are unable to donate, please say a prayer for Lissette and Vincent as well as a cure for MS and Autism. Thank u all in advance ❤️