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Support Barbara on her journey to healing from Lyme disease

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Many of us know Barbara Montgomery as a passionate, thoughtful, and steadfast friend. She is deeply committed to her family and community, consistently offering encouragement and support to others despite her own health challenges.

For over a decade, Barbara has been receiving extensive treatment for Lyme disease and its co-infections. (You can read her full story below – she is an inspiration to us all!) She now needs further rehabilitation to address issues with her spine and supporting tissues. She’s working with several specialists, and has most recently been referred to an ENT specialist in Colorado to evaluate how Lyme co-infections may be affecting her spine and contributing to her cognitive symptoms.

As 2024 comes to a close, Barbara needs financial support for medical expenses, including specialist visits, procedures, lab tests not covered by insurance, and airfare for her upcoming trip to Colorado. We’ve set a GoFundMe goal of $5,000 to cover the anticipated costs for the rest of 2024 and first half of 2025. These funds will not only aid Barbara’s healing, but also support her ongoing journey of hope and resilience.


Barbara's Story

For the past 14 years, Barbara has battled a chronic illness that impacts every aspect of her life. It started in high school when she began experiencing debilitating fatigue, which led to severe and persistent symptoms including insomnia, brain fog, and autonomic nervous system dysregulation (a “fight or flight” sensation). Her chronic fatigue feels like the moment you’re awoken in the middle of a deep sleep: groggy & utterly exhausted.

At any given time, Barbara’s energy level functions at 30-50% capacity of a healthy adult. Each day, she must choose whether to rest or push herself to the limit, as even basic tasks like running errands, grocery shopping, or cooking require immense endurance and energy management.

Despite these trials, Barbara remains a fighter. She is actively pursuing treatment with specialists in infectious disease, sleep, and chronic fatigue, following her care plans to maximize her chances of recovery.

Barbara is also determined to keep moving forward with life. In May 2022 she graduated Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a minor in International Studies. She’s currently completing her master’s degree, supported by scholarships and fellowships that help cover her educational expenses. This summer, Barbara interned with the Department of State, and she is excited to pursue a career in the federal government once she graduates.

Barbara’s heart is to inspire and empower others to follow their dreams, regardless of limitations. She finds encouragement in an online Lyme disease support group, where she’s connected with others who truly understand her daily struggles. In her words, "My soul feels its worth when I’m here."

Through it all, Barbara chooses to dance in the midst of pain and to place her faith in God with every step she takes. Please enjoy several of her dances as you consider supporting her journey toward healing.

  • Graduation Dance:





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    Organizer and beneficiary

    Megan Dortch
    Organizer
    Washington D.C., DC
    Barbara Montgomery
    Beneficiary

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