Mandy's Amazing Team (formerly Mandy's Movin' to Maryland!)

Mandy is a dear friend of mine for over 20 years, who has been coping with the progression of a neurological disorder similar to Multiple Sclerosis for nearly 10 years. In the past year she has also been going through a divorce and the recent loss of her father. Mandy’s greatest wish is to move from Buffalo, NY to an area closer to family, and a few key friends like me. Mandy spent time in the MD/DC/VA area as a kid, and still has numerous family members including her sister, stepsiblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins in the area. If you know Mandy, you know that community is extremely important to her, and she has always been such a bright spot in any community she is a part of.

After talking with Mandy for the past few months about this idea, my sister-in-law Adrienne and I plan to assist Mandy in this move to Maryland! I live about 5 minutes drive from Adrienne, who has offered Mandy space in her home. The first step includes remodeling Adrienne’s basement to provide accommodations for Mandy’s wheelchair and daily functioning. Mandy is very excited about this idea because she will be able to save money on rent every month compared to other living options, and she will be among friends while also being closer to her Maryland family. Adrienne will also benefit from this arrangement by having her basement updated and having a roommate to help with bills. Not to mention all the fun they will have together listening to music and bonding over food, motherhood, and all the other things they have in common.

I am happy to be supporting Mandy as well, she’s been a dear friend to me and we have been devoted to staying in touch through the years and the miles between us. I am contributing my professional experience as a social worker and a therapist for people with chronic conditions to help make Mandy’s transition to Maryland as smooth as possible.

Your donation, however small, with help us bridge the financial gaps for the move and add to the smooth transition. The financial goal is an estimate, and might increase after contractors estimates come in. Please feel free to share!

Yay! Thank you so much for your help! And Mandy says, "Thank you for being a friend."