Nicole's Life Fund

This is a current photo of Nicole. This is rapidly changing from not being able to go out, to struggling to feed herself.  Her husband Anthony is her sole caregiver which now does not allow him to work and provide for the family.  Desperately they are trying to sell whatever they can to survive.  Many of you have already donated and it is very much appreciated.  Even a small care package of food would also help or if anyone could help babysit so Anthony could possibly get out and get some work done.  I have never met anyone so determined to win this battle but it is so difficult when you are facing many obsticales.  Most of us have families who step in and help but they only have each other.  She sent me a heartbreaking message last night that they may have to move and their only alternative is to buy a camper, take what they can and hopefully start to heal.  All of this takes money.  Below is her story and struggles which most of you have read.  Again please know this is very difficult for her to allow me to tell this portion and just as hard for her to ask for help. 



To all friends and family of Nicole's,

My name is Jan Sosa. I am Nicole's neighbor and friend. I've watched Nicole decline over the past years and recently was scared she might lose her battle to live.
Please read her note below. I ask you to consider giving, as I know first hand as mother what it's like to watch your own child deal with this very same disease. This is no coincidence that we are connected. I do hope you will consider supporting Nicole on her journey to healing. She needs all the love, support (financial, emotional and physical support: errand running, grocery shopping, etc) she can get.

"My name is Nicole Cooper. I am 37 years old and have been diagnosed with neurological Lyme disease, as well as other co-infections, and lots more issues that this disease is causing in my body. Thyroid issues, fibromyalgia, heart issues, liver, stomach, adrenal, brain/neurological, etc. to mention a few.

An average day for me consists of migraines, vomiting, unable to digest food on a regular basis as my stomach will just shut down and locks ups. Even fluids can’t pass. A problem known as gastroparesis, leaving me nearly unable to sip water for days on end and needing ER visits frequently For IV fluids just to maintain life. I have vertigo, dizziness, extreme tremors all over my body that never stops, unsteady on my feet, causing me to fall frequently. I can hardly hold a cup or write, etc. I have severe confusion all the time. Can’t even be at the local park with out getting lost. Forgetting how I got there. Who I’m with, or even being able to pick my family out from strangers. Falling off bleachers with seizures and passing out randomly is my new normal. Unable to bend over without vomiting. Severe neck and back spine pain and overall body pain, hearing loss, ringing in ears, sun/sound sensitivity. It hurts just to watch tv. Most times I can’t even do that. I’ve been stuck in bed now for several long years. Knowing I will not give in to this disease. I have been researching and self treating nonstop since the diagnosis. I need to see a specialist again really soon who will finally get me and help me. I’ve tried everything from chiropractic, GI doctors, neurologists, lyme specialists, etc with no avail.

I presently treat holistically, as I’m unable to tolerate aggressive treatments right now. Using essential oils, natural clean eating, supplements, lots of lemon water and detox baths, as detoxing is crucial to my survival. I do it daily. More and more days lately are spent not just in bed, but asleep. I’m unable to stay awake at all. Very little. Life seems minimal. Some days are impossible. These I consider one my “lost days” as my body may be here but I may not be able to stay awake at all. I can hear things. Just not able to move or respond, like being in a coma I would guess. Or in too much pain to even open my eyes with my head wrapped in ice for days on end.

Before this disease took over my life I was very active. Having a great time at the beach. Walking , surfing, or shell hunting. Spending time with family and friends, I loved to run and exercise for enjoyment. Overall took great care of my body. Lots of physical activities. I owned and operated my own pet sitting business for over 16 years. Very fun, rewarding, and successful. I loved my job so much. Animals are my passion in life and they just make me happy! I love to help people too. I’ve helped all souls I was able to who have crossed my path. Animals, people, I’m a caretaker. I loved to see my clients making family memories on vacations while knowing all was well at home. I would be there at the drop of a hat. Anyone could count on me while caring for their fur babies!

Now I hardly know the day of the week or what I’m supposed to be doing. Lucky if I can compete a task before I forget what I’m doing. I have always been very independent. So this is extremely hard for me to ask for help. However at this point in my journey it may be my only hope.
Having Lyme is like having the worst flu of your life! Only it never ends and you know that! You have to adjust to making the best of it. Keep a positive attitude and never ever give up! Knowing everyday is goin to be nearly impossible to make it through alive. To Keep up the strength to take another breath, it’s exhausting!! However, I want to continue to breathe. In hopes of remission!!!!

On top of my own life struggles I have a very special needs 6 year old son. It's possible his issues are a result of my own disease, but I have not been able to confirm this due to my own health and financial restraints. Regardless he needs his momma! I have brothers and sisters, and my husband who all need me in their lives. I want to live for me and for them. Always caring for others, I’ve neglected myself for far too long. I see that now. I am in over my head and I’m asking for support (finally). It’s now or never for me! I’ve never been good at receiving. So, I’m setting aside all my pride and asking for help if at all possible...anything helps! I know life is hard on everyone!

I hope to receive my disability towards the end of this year. I started it over a year ago. The process takes time and the system is all backed up. I’m on the final stages now. Just waiting on a court date. I do have a lawyer. I’ve been out of work for over a year and have exhausted all savings and funds available to me. Used for doctors, medications, supplements, housing etc.
I desperately need to see a specialist again. I’ll need help traveling to the appointments. I was determined to do this on my own. However as hard as this is for me, I NEED HELP!! I promise the money will be spent on treatments, travel expenses, housing, and living expenses. So that I may continue my journey as long as possible!! Thank you so much! MOST IMPORTANT LOVE TO ALL!!! "

Nicole will need extensive treatment to recover. Her first appointment with a new doctor is next week. This will be from $10k-$15k worth of treatment.  The course of treatment will be determined in the coming weeks.

These funds will be used for treatment, medication, housing, food & travel back and forth to treatment.

Funds are needed as soon as possible so healing can begin. Nicole needs to start fighting this battle now! She needs to be allowed the chance to be a mom again and feel human. We all deserve that chance and she is worthy!

Many thanks,
Jan Sosa