Support Gracie's Fight Against Dysautonomia

Many of you know the Wood family and their 16-year-old daughter, Gracie. Gracie is courageously battling a type of Dysautonomia that has been extremely debilitating. Just one year ago, Gracie was playing volleyball and basketball for her high school and going to Homecoming with her older sister and friends... today she is limited to short trips around the house (usually crawling). She has not attended school in person for over four weeks since December 2022.

On her worst days, she faints 50-100 times/day. She uses a transport chair to get around the house so she won't fall and obtain injuries. She has a constant headache, is lightheaded and dizzy - feeling like she is on a boat, has constant 'brain fog,' bouts of loss of vision & hearing, and faints daily, to name a few symptoms. Gracie has been to over eight different types of specialists and therapies, adjusted her diet, added supplements, and engaged in system biofeedback – all of which helped initially but did not make a difference in the long term. She is always open to trying new things and has a smile and positive attitude despite the frustration that sits with her daily. Regardless of her determination and strength, Gracie's journey towards recovery has been marked by many uncertainties and challenges.

Gracie has had many diagnoses over the last year, including Vertigo, Vestibular Migraines, and Functional Neurological Disorder (to name a few). After many trips to the ER, she was ultimately diagnosed in April 2023 with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). POTS is a complex and poorly understood condition that affects the autonomic nervous system, causing symptoms like rapid heart rate, dizziness, fatigue, and a host of other debilitating symptoms upon assuming an upright position. Gracie's case is complicated as her doctors have been unable to find a standard treatment protocol that offers significant relief. This has led her to explore unconventional and alternative treatments, none of which are covered by insurance.

In her quest for better health and a life free from the limitations imposed by POTS, Gracie has made the courageous decision to seek treatment at a Functional Neurology clinic in Oregon this October. This intensive treatment regimen will require her to stay there for 2-3 weeks. During that time, she will undergo detailed neurological examinations to pinpoint precisely where the issues are, endure various therapies and consultations with specialists with experience managing Dysautonomia, and rehabilitate her neurological pathways and vestibular systems. While we hope this journey will bring her closer to recovery, it comes at a significant financial cost.

In this spirit, I reach out to you today, seeking your support for Gracie's fundraiser. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful impact on her journey to recovery. Your generosity will help cover the costs of treatment, travel, accommodation, and other related expenses not covered by insurance, along with her past medical bills. Your support will give Gracie the hope and resources to fight POTS and regain control of her life.

Here are a few ways you can contribute:

1. Monetary Donation: You can financially contribute directly to Gracie's fundraiser. Any amount, big or small, will be greatly appreciated and will make a difference.

2. Spread the Word: Share Gracie's story and fundraiser with your friends, your family, and on social media. The power of community support cannot be underestimated.

3. Offer Encouragement: Send Gracie messages of hope and encouragement. Your words of support can be a source of strength during her challenging journey.

4. Prayers and Positive Thoughts: Keep Gracie in your thoughts and prayers, sending positive energy her way for a successful treatment and recovery.

Gracie's determination and bravery in the face of adversity are truly inspiring. With your support, we can help her access the treatments she needs and give her the chance at a brighter, healthier future. Thank you for considering our plea, and please know that your support means the world to Gracie and her wonderful family. Together, we can make a difference and provide Gracie with the hope and resources she needs on her path to recovery. We are profoundly grateful for your kindness and generosity.