Candy is one of my closest friends—we went to college together and have known each other for about 15 years. She has always been a caring, vibrant person, full of life and compassion for others. Now, she is facing one of the toughest challenges of her life. Candy has been battling a rare neuromuscular autoimmune disease, Myasthenia Gravis. This illness affects her ability to walk, talk, breathe, chew, see, and swallow, making daily life incredibly difficult. She has been hospitalized four times since December, needing emergency intervention. She was most recently admitted to the neuro ICU and is currently hospitalized, receiving PLEX and immunosuppressant treatment, as well as acute PT and OT. She has required extensive, invasive medical intervention, and her illness has been complicated by other autoimmune diseases.

Due to the severity and instability of her disease, Candy is unable to work and has been denied SSDI, leaving her without any income. The average time to recover from a Myasthenia Gravis crisis is up to a year, and she faces ongoing medical and living expenses that are not covered or capped by insurance. Her loving partner, Vince, is currently her sole caregiver, supporting her through this difficult time.

Funds raised will help cover the costs of Candy’s extensive respiratory and physical therapy, medical devices to assist with walking and daily functioning, and essential living expenses. This support will allow Candy and Vince to focus on her recovery and disease stabilization without the added stress of financial hardship. Anyone who knows Candy knows how much she cares for others and has a zest for life. This period has been devastating for her and all who love her. We hope you can support Candy during this difficult time. If you know Candy at all, you know she never would ask for help directly. So, as a friend, I am reaching out. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. Thank you for showing love to someone so dear to us all.