Gom Moms Ramp Up!

It’s an impossible thing to watch someone you love transition from a vibrant, thriving person to a vibrant, un-thriving person. To bear witness as a luminous soul works to push through the grey of an increasingly-weary body.

Marina’s autoimmune diagnosis first came with unpredictability. The bad days popping up like a jack-in-the-box, a startling reminder not to get too attached to the melody. Then a growing list of ailments and questions. Trips to specialists in far corners of the country. Uncertain interventions.

At some point the scales tipped, and the bad days outnumbered the good. The treatments came with side effects as bad as the disease. And then, unbelievably, adverse reactions to treatments eliminated option after option after option.

Marina’s over-enthusiastic immune system continued to wage its war on healthy tissue. No more independent errands. A bedroom move from upstairs to the main floor. Regular trips to the emergency room. Second-hand reports of Harvey’s elementary school performances.

Our girl is adjusting to her shrinking world with bravery, humor, and depth of spirit. Amid her own disappointments, she is checking in on others, hatching plans, writing her Substack, inspiring her employees, cheering on her loved ones, and generally sharing her light. Every time Harvey walks into the house, he is met with a full-throated greeting from his Mimi. You’d think he just got back from a sea voyage.

Those of us who know her know that Marina is deeply generous with her attention and affection. We see her sensitivity, kindness, and warmth. We ache as we watch her condition deteriorate her quality of life.

Additionally, we see El taking care of the house and the errands and the meals. Loyal, loving, and surprisingly cheerful, all things considered.

We’ve seen this powerhouse duo tackle compounding challenges and long wondered: how can we help?

Now, we can!

Marina and Elenor have designs for a ramp outside their front door. A ramp offers them new options and Marina a bit of independence.

But the construction plans are expensive, as are mounting medical bills (ambulances are not cost effective modes of transportation). Financial pressure on top of all the other pressure.

Marina and El speak often about how grateful they are for their community. If you’re in a position to chip in, let’s give the Gom Moms a little relief. Let’s give Marina a a wider radius to shine her light (at least as far as her jazzy’s battery will carry her).