Mary Beth Coletta is a dear friend and fellow Board member who is facing an unimaginable crisis. Her spouse was recently diagnosed with CJ disease, a rare and aggressive illness that is 100% fatal, and has been given only 2-3 months to live. The disease has progressed rapidly, and her spouse is now in the hospital awaiting transfer to hospice care. Her voice has become a whisper, her words and thoughts are often garbled, and she experiences full body tremors around the clock. While eating is difficult, the good news is that she can still swallow, and her pain is currently managed. Their focus now is on spending every precious moment together with their children and grandchildren.

Until recently, Mary Beth's spouse was the primary breadwinner for their family, working as the assistant administrator of a rehabilitation and assisted living facility. Sadly, the early symptoms of this disease led to the loss of her employment and the cancellation of her employer-provided life insurance. This has created an overwhelming and unexpected financial strain, including mounting medical expenses, daily living needs, and unpaid time away from work for Mary Beth so she can be present at the many medical consultations and oversee her spouse's care. On top of this, they are facing rent and car payments, gas costs for frequent hospital visits, and vet bills for their sick dog.

We are asking for your help in easing these burdens so Mary Beth can focus on what truly matters right now—caring for the love of her life and keeping up with essential expenses such as rent, utilities, health insurance, and food. Any contribution, no matter the amount, is sincerely appreciated. All funds received will go directly toward supporting Mary Beth during the difficult days ahead.