This is for my beautiful cousin Stephanie, who was diagnosed with a very rare degenerative condition this year called POEM's Syndrome. Due to its rarity, research is still being done to learn more about it. The only known treatment for it is that for Multiple Myeloma, which involves chemotherapy. So far, she is responding very well, and the next step will be a STEM cell transplant for which we are hoping and believing God for a complete recovery. She will need help financially to get thru the next year.

Her trust in the Lord inspires me every day!! Here’s her story…In August of 2021, my sister and I were helping my cousin plan a wedding. We were excited that she was remarrying after being a single mom for many years. She was so happy! However, she started having muscle control issues with her feet, which turned out to be neuropathy. It progressed quickly so that she needed a walker within months. Pain at night made it difficult to sleep, while fatigue and weakness began creeping in. Doctors couldn't seem to figure out what was wrong, and in January of 2022, she was given a diagnosis that ended up being incomplete. Other symptoms started to express themselves, and the neuropathy progressed throughout her extremities to the point where she could barely write her name or hold a glass. Managing pain seemed hopeless. Finally, in March of this year (2023), after almost 2 months in the hospital and down to only 89 pounds, she was given a diagnosis of a very rare condition called POEM's Syndrome. The only documented treatment to successfully affect POEM's is what they use for multiple myeloma, so she started chemotherapy in May, and gratefully, she has responded wonderfully so far. The next step for her will be a STEM cell transplant, which they hope will bring her into a long remission and recovery.

As you can imagine, the extreme amount of stress and heartache created from this situation was very hard on her new marriage, and unfortunately, it took its toll earlier this year. Simultaneously, two very intense hospital stays made it impossible for Stephanie to go back to work; losing her only source of income and losing connection to the community of fellow educators who have been a source of purpose and joy in her life. She has been without income since July and is now living with her brother and son, who will be helping to take care of her needs over the next year. They will need financial support to get thru. Whatever is given will be gratefully received.

Thank you - Amy and family