Support Mica's Journey With ALS

Thank you all so much for your prayers and kind messages. My brother, Owen, and I created this GoFundMe in an attempt to relieve my mom of some of the inevitable financial burdens that are to come with her treatments. We appreciate ANYTHING you all can contribute.

As some of you know, but most of you may not, in late April, after months of tests and treatments, our mom, Mica, was diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, atrophy, and ultimately paralysis. As motor neurons die, the brain loses its ability to initiate and control muscle movement, affecting voluntary activities like walking, speaking, and swallowing. The exact cause of ALS is largely unknown, though both genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. There is currently no cure, and the diagnosis is fatal, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving the comfort and quality of life of the patient.

Shortly after her diagnosis, Mom's neurologists informed her of a clinical trial she was a candidate for that involved brain surgery and injecting stem cells from a fetus into one part of her brain, in hopes of helping to slow the progression of deterioration in one arm. However, after many consultations, gathering more information, contemplating everything, prayer, and meditation, our mom ultimately decided the risk was too great to continue with the clinical trial and will be pursuing other treatment options. She has continued to be hopeful and positive with every step forward in this process. 

Because these treatments aim to slow the progression of the disease, improve muscle function, and enhance overall well-being, they are as necessary as they are expensive. There are several options we would like to try, most of which are from functional medicine practitioners and must be paid out of pocket. Just one type of these treatments costs $7,500 for the initial three sessions and $1900 each quarter thereafter. Again, our hope here is to raise as much money and support for her as we can, to take away any unnecessary burdens she will face. 100% of the donations will be going towards covering her costs associated with fighting ALS.

Our mom has always been a beacon of selflessness, kindness, and devotion. To us, her life is a testament to the quiet strength and unwavering love that defines motherhood. Despite working so hard to make sure ends meet, she has always been there for us with comfort and support. Our mom’s kindness extends beyond family and friends, into her work as a LPC. She has always encouraged my brother and I to pursue our dreams, and gives us the courage to strive for more in life. Even recently, through these extremely tough times, her high spirit hasn’t wavered. My brother and I are hoping to give back to her for everything she has ever given us. 

Thank you.