Hi everyone! My mom, Cindy, was a career early childhood educator and PreK teacher. She dedicated her life to helping children and loved her career. In 2016, after several years of questions and doctor visits, she was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis, or PPMS. Mom kept an optimistic mindset despite knowing what this diagnosis meant, and even made it her job to keep Robert's (my stepdad) and my spirits high. Mom continued working until 2016, when her mobility issues caused by PPMS forced her to take an early retirement.

By 2019, Mom could no longer walk, even with a rollator. This setback meant we had to buy equipment to get her up and down for even the most basic of necessities, like being changed or bathed. Somehow, she still maintained a positive attitude throughout all of this.

Recently, Mom took another turn for the worse - losing her ability to be upright on her feet at all, even with a sit to stand frame. She struggles to lift her own arms at times. She is now confined to a medical bed at home. Mom requires more care than Robert or I can give her now. We had to purchase a hoyer lift and hire caregivers to come in twice a day to give her the most basic of care. Somehow, Mom still finds a reason to smile. It breaks my heart to see her this way; with her body so fragile and broken, and to know she's fully aware of what is happening to her.

Unfortunately, insurance will not pay for her caregivers, medical equipment or supplies, which has caused a lot of financial strain on her already depleted resources. With this type of MS, she will only continue to decline and we're unsure how we will continue to pay for her care. The funds raised through this campaign will go directly toward paying for the caregivers who support my mom each day with everything from personal care to medical attention. Your generosity will help us continue to provide the care she needs while easing the burden in our family. Our goal is to raise enough for the next 2 years of care.

We appreciate each and every one of you. No amount is too small and every bit helps. Your support means everything to our family and we are deeply grateful for any help you can offer.