It’s sad how in one day, your life can be turned upside down. My sister Odette was living life to the fullest with her husband Andrew and her beautiful young children Olivia (5) and Leo (3) when the life she lived suddenly changed. After developing neurological symptoms late last year, she was diagnosed with a rare disease called Functional Neurological Disorder, or FND for short. 

Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a medical condition in which there is a problem with the functioning of the nervous system and how the brain and body sends and/or receives signals. 

FND left my sister with many symptoms which can appear at any time during her day. Imagine going from being a fully functional person to then having all this taken away. Things you take for granted such as being able to take care of your family, go shopping, drive a car, make dinner, clean your house or walk easily became a thing of the past. 

Often she is forced to spend most of her day in bed, as she is too physically exhausted and cannot function.  When Odette gets tired, her symptoms get worse. Symptoms include and are not limited to tremors, physical pain, inability to talk, slurring in her speech and involuntary movements. As you can imagine, this has been terribly difficult on her, and her family. Her husband Andrew is now her main caregiver, but it gets exhausting and stressful for him too, having to take care of her and also the small children.  

Before her diagnosis with FND, my sister was the main breadwinner of the family. This has left them in a tricky financial situation, with her unable to go back to work. They have income protection, but it is coming to an end, and with two small children I want to be able to help her in some way so that they can focus on her recovery from this terribly debilitating disease. Recovery is not definite, but I want to give her peace of mind, so that she can focus on getting well again. 

This is why I have started this go fund me page. My sister has the most kind and generous heart of everyone I have ever met. She is beautiful, inside and out and constantly giving what she has to those around her. She has been upbeat, and there hasn't been a day where I haven't seen her smile through the pain and adversity.

Before being diagnosed, my sister was the main breadwinner of the family. Her husband Andrew is unable to work as he is now her full-time carer. Although they have received income insurance, this is coming to an end. Where will they get the money to pay bills/mortgage? I'm hoping to raise money for the following.
 
- Mortgage and bill repayments 
- A motorised scooter to help her become mobile when she cannot walk
- A cleaner to assist with the running of her house 

I do realise that it is a rough time for many, especially with what is going on in Australia with Covid right now, but I ask that if you have any money to spare, that you would find it in your heart to donate to my sister and her family. I know my sister would never ask for help, but I am asking on her behalf because she deserves the chance to get better.

Odette is the most loving, generous and kind hearted person you could meet. Please donate anything you can, and please SHARE on your social media so that we might be able to help her family. Thank you for your kind donations.