Support Francis and Lively's Medical Journey

Hi, my name is Alyssa and I am initiating this fundraiser for costs associated with a major medical crisis for my dear friend, amazing human Francis Cimmaron and their daughter Lively.

Francis has a rare genetic condition called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that affects their connective tissues and joints. Due to this condition, Francis lives and copes *incredibly* with an extreme amount of physical pain and limitations and recently had a major medical crisis. The recovery and aftermath will be ongoing.

On May 27th after over 3 weeks of acute pain that was misdiagnosed as migraines Francis was admitted to Misson hospital. After what took a remarkable amount of self-advocacy and community support Francis was diagnosed with a Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak, the fluid that protects their brain and spinal column was leaking through the dura of their spine. Francis was able to get a blood patch procedure that has mitigated the pain and stopped the leak. Francis has also started to have seizures which further complicate recovery and care.

Francis is the devoted single parent of 16-year-old Lively and a steadfast friend and dear chosen family to many. Forever resilient they formed the inspiring Resound Community Choir after their illness made it not possible to continue their work as a music teacher for children. They are an active community member rising to meet whatever challenge comes our way from a true collectivist perspective. Francis is a queer activist and dreamer, multi dimensional artist, delightfully fun and playful, omg hands down what a visionary babe. Their deep knowledge, their love, their care, and ability to bring people together and uplift us all is a priceless gift. They have done amazing things while bearing unthinkable pain, as a single parent without financial support.

This is the time for community care and support networks far and wide to help dear Frankie and Lively recover from this current medical crisis and put them on the best path forward to manage this life long condition. Francis is finally home from the hospital but they are needing round the clock care, ongoing physical and occupational therapy and access to more medical interventions. They will likely go to the medical facility at Duke in the coming weeks for more medical care and procedures. Francis is unable to work at this time and that will be the case for quite awhile. Funds will go towards medical bills, specialists, more procedures, housing & all needs for Francis & Lively.

Francis has been actively shaping a better world through their many gifts the 20+ years I personally have had the honor to witness them and call them friend. Their deep care and unique and brilliant brain are a treasure. Let's share this fundraiser far and wide, over and over, and invest in Francis & Lively's ability to get through this current medical crisis and beyond!